Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe

These Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of tender chicken, savory garlic, and sweet honey, with a touch of soy sauce for a flavorful, irresistible dish. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The chicken bites are coated in a delicious sauce that can be served with rice, veggies, or as a snack. You can even adjust the sweetness or the garlic intensity to suit your preferences.

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites offer a delightful balance of flavors. The chicken is juicy, tender, and perfectly crispy on the outside, while the honey garlic sauce is rich and packed with umami. These little bites are perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or as the main dish for dinner. The sticky sauce can be adjusted to suit your sweetness and garlic levels, giving you the flexibility to tailor it to your personal taste.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights but also versatile enough to serve at gatherings, game nights, or casual dinner parties. The combination of the crispy chicken and the flavorful sauce is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters!

Preparation Steps

The prep work for this dish is relatively simple. You’ll need to prepare the chicken, make the sauce, and set everything up for cooking. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken bites turn out perfectly:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Try to keep them uniform in size so that they cook evenly.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken pieces, making sure they are evenly coated. This step will give the chicken flavor before it’s fried.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Set up a dredging station. In one shallow bowl, place the flour, and in another, whisk the eggs. For extra crispiness, you can add cornstarch to the flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, followed by the flour mixture, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. Mince the Garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic. Fresh garlic will give the sauce the best flavor, so make sure to mince it finely for the best results.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger (if using). Stir well to combine.
3. Cornstarch Slurry (Optional): If you want your sauce to be thicker and stick better to the chicken, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Set aside.

Step 3: Set Up for Cooking

1. Heat the Oil: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up before adding the chicken. This will help the chicken get a nice, crispy exterior.
2. Have a Plate Ready: Prepare a plate lined with paper towels to drain the chicken after frying.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Fry the Chicken

1. Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4–5 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the pan and place it on the paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
2. Repeat: Continue frying the remaining chicken pieces in batches until they are all cooked. If you need to add more oil to the pan, do so in small increments.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. Cook the Sauce: In the same pan that you fried the chicken in (discard any excess oil, but leave a bit of the residue for flavor), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add the Honey and Soy Sauce: Pour the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger (if using) into the pan. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to bubble gently. Bring it to a simmer, and let it cook for about 2–3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
3. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you want the sauce to be thicker, add the cornstarch slurry. Stir well and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken bites back into the pan with the sauce. Toss the chicken in the sauce until it’s evenly coated. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the delicious sauce and for the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve: Once the chicken is coated in the honey garlic sauce, it’s ready to serve. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While frying the chicken offers the crispiest results, there are alternative cooking methods you can use if you prefer a healthier or more hands-off approach:

Baking Method:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the battered chicken pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
3. Coat with Sauce: Once baked, toss the chicken in the honey garlic sauce as instructed in the original recipe.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the battered chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
3. Toss in Sauce: After the chicken is crispy, toss it in the prepared honey garlic sauce.

Both the baking and air fryer methods will yield slightly less crispy chicken, but they’re excellent alternatives if you want a healthier or less involved cooking process.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Bites

Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the perfect results every time:

• Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and dredging it. Excess moisture can prevent the chicken from becoming crispy.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey. For a more savory balance, reduce the amount of honey or add more soy sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, make sure to cook the chicken in batches. Overcrowding the pan will lead to steaming instead of frying, which can prevent the chicken from getting crispy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the most flavor and depth to the sauce. If you use pre-minced garlic, the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
• Cornstarch for Crispiness: Adding cornstarch to the dredging flour mixture will create an extra crispy coating on the chicken.

Variations and Customizations

You can customize this recipe to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles:

• Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle some sriracha sauce over the finished chicken for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) for a gluten-free version of this dish.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, use tofu instead of chicken. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, cut it into cubes, and follow the same process of battering and frying.
• Sesame Honey Garlic Chicken Bites: Add toasted sesame seeds to the sauce or sprinkle them on top after the chicken is coated. This adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

These Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed white or brown rice for a comforting and filling meal.
• With Vegetables: Pair the chicken with sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots for a well-rounded meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken as a finger food appetizer at parties, game nights, or gatherings.
• In Wraps or Tacos: Use the chicken bites as a filling for wraps, tacos, or lettuce wraps. Add some fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra sauce for an easy and delicious meal.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Pair your Honey Garlic Chicken Bites with wines that complement the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors:

• Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay works well with the richness of the sauce and the tenderness of the chicken.
• Riesling: A slightly sweet Riesling balances the honey’s sweetness and complements the garlic and soy sauce.
• Pinot Noir: If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir is a good option. Its acidity will cut through the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Bites

Pair your Honey Garlic Chicken Bites with these delicious sides for a complete meal:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic will complement the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing and crunchy slaw with a sesame dressing will add a cool contrast to the warm, sticky chicken.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes with a crispy exterior and soft interior make an excellent side dish.
• Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli provide a healthy contrast to the rich chicken bites.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time? A: Yes! You can fry the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, toss it in the sauce and reheat. Alternatively, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it separately.

Q: How can I make this dish less sweet? A: If you find the sauce too sweet, reduce the amount of honey and increase the soy sauce or add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Reheating Leftovers:

1. Oven: To keep the crispy texture of the chicken, reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until the chicken is heated through and crispy.
2. Skillet: If you’re in a rush, you can also reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small drizzle of oil or butter to prevent sticking, and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning the chicken to heat it evenly.
3. Microwave: Although not ideal for maintaining crispiness, you can microwave the chicken if necessary. Place the chicken bites on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Heat for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Note that this method may result in less crispy chicken.

Freezing:

• Freezing Chicken Bites: If you have a large batch and want to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked chicken bites. Allow the chicken to cool completely and arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours to freeze the chicken individually. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Freezing Sauce: You can also freeze the honey garlic sauce separately. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and heat it up before tossing the chicken in the sauce.

Meal Prep Ideas

These Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can prepare them in advance and have meals ready to go for the week ahead. Here’s how to incorporate them into your meal prep routine:

Step-by-Step Meal Prep:

1. Cook the Chicken: Follow the full recipe to prepare the honey garlic chicken bites.
2. Store in Meal Prep Containers: After cooking, portion out the chicken bites into individual meal prep containers. You can pair them with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Pack a Side Salad or Veggies: Add some raw or roasted vegetables, such as steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a side salad with a light dressing to balance the sweetness of the chicken.
4. Use a Sauce on the Side: To prevent the chicken from becoming soggy in storage, pack the honey garlic sauce in a separate container. When you’re ready to eat, simply drizzle the sauce over the chicken or toss it before heating.
5. Reheat When Ready: To enjoy your meal prep, reheat the chicken using one of the methods mentioned above and serve with your chosen sides.

Meal prepping these chicken bites ensures you have a delicious, protein-packed meal ready for several days. You can easily mix things up with different side dishes to prevent flavor fatigue.

Health Considerations

While Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are an indulgent treat, there are ways to modify the recipe to make it slightly healthier without compromising on flavor. Here are a few modifications to make the dish lighter:

Lower-Calorie Modifications:

1. Use Skinless Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are slightly higher in fat than chicken breasts but tend to be more flavorful and juicy. Opt for skinless thighs if you want the tenderness of dark meat while still keeping it lean.
2. Lighten the Breading: Instead of using all-purpose flour, try a mixture of whole wheat flour and cornstarch for a lighter breading. You can also experiment with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even almond flour for a healthier alternative. Additionally, try air frying the chicken instead of deep frying to reduce oil usage.
3. Reduce Honey: To cut down on sugar, you can reduce the amount of honey in the sauce. You can substitute part of the honey with a sugar-free sweetener, such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener, to lower the carbohydrate content. However, be mindful of the balance of sweetness and savory flavor when making substitutions.
4. Use Olive Oil: Opt for olive oil or avocado oil instead of vegetable oil for frying. These oils are healthier alternatives with higher amounts of heart-healthy fats.

Sodium Reduction:

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. This will help lower the overall sodium content without sacrificing the rich umami flavor of the dish.

Add More Vegetables:

• Increase Vegetables: Pairing the chicken with more vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or leafy greens can help boost the dish’s nutritional value. You can stir-fry or steam these vegetables and serve them as a side to complement the chicken.

Using Honey Garlic Chicken Bites in Other Dishes

The versatility of Honey Garlic Chicken Bites means you can repurpose them in a variety of other dishes. Here are some creative ways to use the chicken in other meals:

1. Honey Garlic Chicken Wraps: Use the chicken bites as a filling for wraps. You can add a drizzle of extra sauce and some fresh vegetables, like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, to make a delicious wrap.
2. Honey Garlic Chicken Tacos: Toss the chicken bites with extra sauce and serve them in soft or hard taco shells. Top with shredded lettuce, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for an easy weeknight meal.
3. Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry: Toss the chicken bites into a stir-fry with vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and bell peppers. The honey garlic sauce will add a delicious glaze to the veggies and chicken, making this a well-rounded, quick meal.
4. Honey Garlic Chicken Pizza: Spread a thin layer of honey garlic sauce on a pizza crust, and top it with the honey garlic chicken. Add mozzarella cheese, red onions, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an exciting twist on a classic pizza.
5. Honey Garlic Chicken Salad: Toss the chicken bites with greens, such as mixed lettuce, spinach, and arugula, along with toppings like avocado, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Dress with a balsamic vinaigrette or light ranch to balance the sweet honey garlic flavors.

Cultural Inspiration and History

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites combine two distinct culinary traditions: the rich flavors of Asian cuisine and the sweetness of honey. The use of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic brings an authentic Asian flair to the dish, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness commonly found in both Asian and Western cooking.

The Sweet-Savory Tradition:

Sweet and savory combinations are a hallmark of many cultures. In Chinese cooking, for instance, you’ll find numerous dishes that incorporate sugar or honey alongside soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This balance of flavors is particularly popular in dishes such as General Tso’s Chicken or Honey Garlic Shrimp.

By incorporating these ingredients, Honey Garlic Chicken Bites create a fusion of these flavors, offering a rich, complex profile in every bite. It’s a modern take on traditional cooking that blends well with today’s culinary trends of sweet and savory pairings.

Summary of Key Points

• Versatile Dish: You can enjoy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites as an appetizer, main dish, or as part of a meal prep routine.
• Customization Options: Adjust the level of sweetness and garlic, add spicy elements, or even make the dish gluten-free with easy ingredient swaps.
• Health Modifications: Lighten up the dish by using leaner cuts of chicken, opting for healthier oils, or reducing the sugar content.
• Creative Serving Ideas: These chicken bites can be used in wraps, tacos, stir-fries, and salads, offering endless possibilities for creating new meals.
• Storage and Leftovers: Easily store leftovers for later enjoyment. You can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for extended storage.
• Cultural Inspiration: The dish blends sweet and savory elements often found in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese and Korean cooking traditions.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy everyone at your table. With the option to customize the flavors, adjust the sweetness or spice level, and explore different cooking methods, it’s a recipe that can be adapted to any dietary needs or preferences. Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving them as a show-stopping appetizer at your next party, these chicken bites are sure to become a favorite.

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or a special occasion, they are sure to be a hit. With easy-to-follow steps, simple ingredients, and room for customization, this dish is versatile, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table.

Happy cooking, and enjoy these delightful, bite-sized pieces of heaven!

Yield: 4

Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe

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These Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of tender chicken, savory garlic, and sweet honey, with a touch of soy sauce for a flavorful, irresistible dish. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The chicken bites are coated in a delicious sauce that can be served with rice, veggies, or as a snack. You can even adjust the sweetness or the garlic intensity to suit your preferences.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken:
   Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
   Add the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
   
4. Optional: Thicken the Sauce:
   If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then pour it into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.
   
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated well. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
   
6. Serve:
   Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. Serve with rice, veggies, or as an appetizer.

Notes

Chicken Cut: You can use either chicken breasts or chicken thighs for this recipe. Chicken breasts will give you leaner bites, while thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the easiest to work with.

Frying vs. Baking: For the crispiest texture, frying works best. However, if you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chicken bites at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes or use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for around 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Adjust Sweetness: The amount of honey can be adjusted depending on how sweet you want the sauce. If you prefer a more savory flavor, reduce the honey slightly and increase the soy sauce.

Spice Level: For added heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, chili paste, or sriracha into the sauce. Adjust according to your preference for spiciness.

Cornstarch for Crispiness: If you want extra crispy chicken, add 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the flour mixture when dredging the chicken. This will give the coating a nice crunch.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken after frying. To do this, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1–2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. The sauce can also be frozen separately.

Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free(tamari).