Description
Few dishes can match the mouthwatering combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors quite like Sweet & Smoky Honey Garlic Chicken Bites. These tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a caramelized, garlicky honey glaze, enhanced by a touch of smoky depth. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner, a game-day appetizer, or a special gathering, this dish delivers bold flavor in every bite.
Not only are these chicken bites incredibly delicious, but they are also simple to prepare. Using everyday pantry ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals any takeout favorite. In this guide, we will break down every step, ensuring you achieve perfectly crispy, saucy, and flavorful chicken bites every time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- ½ cup (60g) cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (120g) panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup (80ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes them easier to coat in sauce later.
2. Season and Coat the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until evenly coated.
Next, set up a breading station:
- Bowl 1: Place the beaten eggs.
- Bowl 2: Add the panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each cornstarch-coated chicken piece into the egg wash, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating. This step creates a crispy exterior when fried.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat ½ cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they do not overcrowd the pan.
Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a separate pan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
5. Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked chicken bites to the pan with the honey garlic sauce. Toss until each piece is well-coated. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize onto the chicken.
6. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the chicken bites to a serving dish and garnish with:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Sesame seeds for extra texture
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken in breadcrumbs.
- To make it less sweet, reduce the honey and add a splash of lemon juice.
- For a deeper smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the sauce.
- Best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored and reheated easily.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Fried (or Air-Fried / Baked)
- Cuisine: American / Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (¼ of the recipe)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg