Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites

Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are tender, golden-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, sticky, and garlicky glaze. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and juicy inside, these bite-sized delights are irresistibly flavorful and easy to prepare—ideal for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or party appetizers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken bites offer the perfect combination of crispy texture and bold flavor. The homemade honey garlic sauce strikes the right balance between sweet and savory, with a punch of garlic that elevates the dish. They’re quick to fry, highly versatile, and always crowd-pleasing. Whether served over rice or on their own, these bites are sure to become a go-to favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Eggs
• Salt and black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• Honey
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Rice vinegar or lemon juice
• Water
• Cornstarch (to thicken)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix flour and cornstarch.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Dip each piece in the egg, then coat in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Set aside.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
6. Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to make a slurry. Stir into the simmering sauce and cook until thickened.
7. Coat the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken bites in the warm sauce until fully coated.
8. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a spoonful of sriracha to the sauce for heat.
• Oven-Baked: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer Friendly: Cook breaded chicken in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Serve with Sides: Pair with white rice, steamed broccoli, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness. Microwave reheating is convenient but may soften the coating.
To freeze, store fried (unsauced) chicken bites separately. Reheat and toss in freshly made sauce before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can fry the chicken in advance and store it without sauce. Reheat and toss in warm sauce just before serving.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs stay juicy and add extra flavor.

Is this dish very sweet?

The honey sauce is naturally sweet, but the soy sauce and vinegar balance it. You can reduce the honey slightly for less sweetness.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?

Serve immediately after coating, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

This recipe is best with freshly fried chicken for optimal texture and flavor.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or a fresh cucumber salad all complement the sweetness of the sauce.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Yes, increase the cornstarch in the slurry for a thicker glaze.

What kind of soy sauce should I use?

Regular soy sauce works well, but low-sodium soy sauce can be used to control saltiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are a delicious blend of crunch, sweetness, and bold garlic flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. With their golden crisp coating and sticky glaze, these chicken bites are perfect for casual dinners, parties, or when you’re simply craving something irresistibly tasty.

Print