Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken

Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken is a delightful Indo-Chinese fusion dish, combining the bold flavors of sweet, spicy, and tangy sauces with tender chicken, all enveloped in a crunchy coating. A favorite in restaurants and homes alike, this dish is perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a main course. It offers a harmonious blend of textures—crispy fried chicken tossed in a sticky honey-chilli glaze. This mouthwatering recipe is sure to impress and can easily become your go-to dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breast or thighs: 500 grams (cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces)
• Cornflour: ½ cup
• All-purpose flour: ¼ cup
• Egg: 1 (beaten)
• Garlic paste: 1 teaspoon
• Ginger paste: 1 teaspoon
• Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: To taste
• Pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Oil: For deep frying

For the Sauce:

• Honey: 4 tablespoons
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Red chili sauce: 3 tablespoons
• Ketchup: 2 tablespoons
• Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
• Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic: 2 cloves (finely chopped)
• Ginger: 1-inch piece (finely chopped)
• Green chilies: 2 (sliced)
• Capsicum: 1 medium (sliced thinly)
• Onion: 1 small (thinly sliced)
• Spring onions: For garnish
• Sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon (toasted)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by washing and patting dry the chicken pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with garlic paste, ginger paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, and let it marinate for 20-30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the coating by mixing cornflour and all-purpose flour in another bowl. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, then coat it with the flour mixture, ensuring every piece is evenly covered.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches the right frying temperature. Fry the coated chicken in small batches to maintain consistent heat and prevent overcrowding. Cook until each piece turns golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried chicken and drain on a paper towel to soak up excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a wok or large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies, allowing the aroma to develop as they sauté. Next, stir-fry the sliced onion and capsicum for about two minutes to retain their crunchiness. Pour in the honey, soy sauce, red chili sauce, ketchup, and vinegar. Mix thoroughly and let the sauce come to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add the fried chicken to the simmering sauce. Toss the chicken pieces quickly and gently, ensuring they are well-coated with the sticky and flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and chopped spring onions over the top. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for cauliflower florets or paneer cubes to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
2. Noodles Base: Turn this into a main course by serving it over a bed of stir-fried noodles.
3. Extra Crunch: Include roasted cashews or peanuts for an additional layer of texture.
4. Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat by adding Sichuan peppercorns or dried red chilies.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before frying to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Fry the chicken in batches to maintain consistent oil temperature.
• Adjust the balance of sweetness and spiciness in the sauce to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Present as a standalone appetizer, using toothpicks for convenient serving.
• Pair with fried rice, noodles, or steamed jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of fresh cucumber slices or a light salad to complement the bold flavors.

Tips

• For extra crunch, consider double frying the chicken. After the first fry, let it cool slightly and fry again for a few minutes until even crispier.
• If the sauce seems too thick while tossing, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it.
• Always use fresh vegetables to ensure the dish has a vibrant and flavorful touch.
• If serving later, keep the chicken and sauce separate and combine just before serving to maintain the crispy texture.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g

FAQs About Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes works well. Remember to turn the chicken halfway through and spray with oil for a crispier result.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free soy sauce.

4. Is it very spicy?

Not necessarily. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of chili sauce and green chilies.

5. What other vegetables can I add?

Carrots, baby corn, and broccoli are excellent additions that pair well with the sauce.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken is a tantalizing dish that perfectly blends sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re preparing it as a party appetizer or a satisfying main course, this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy to make, versatile, and sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Explore the variations, adjust the flavors to your liking, and enjoy this delicious masterpiece!