Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are little pieces of juicy chicken coated in a perfect mix of sweet honey and savory garlic. They’re crispy on the outside but tender on the inside, making every bite a tasty little treasure. The combination of sticky honey and punchy garlic is what makes this dish so fun and flavorful.
I love making these chicken bites because they’re simple but always a crowd-pleaser. I usually use bite-sized chicken chunks so they cook quickly and get that nice crispy edge. Plus, it’s a great blend of sweet and garlicky that keeps me reaching for more. If you like a little crunch, tossing them in cornstarch before frying gives that perfect texture I’m always after.
My favorite way to enjoy these is straight from the pan with a side of steamed rice or some fresh veggies. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick but still feel special. Honestly, these bites are so good that sometimes I just snack on them like popcorn while watching a show!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender. But chicken breasts work fine too if you want a leaner option. Just cut the pieces small for quick and even cooking.
Cornstarch: It’s what gives the chicken that crispy outside without deep-frying. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can try arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour, but the texture won’t be quite as light and crisp.
Honey: This adds the sweet balance to the garlicky sauce. You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar if you want a plant-based sweetener.
Soy Sauce: I always prefer low-sodium soy sauce here to keep the saltiness in check. Tamari is a good gluten-free alternative if needed.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really makes the sauce shine. Avoid garlic powder here for best flavor and texture.
How Do I Get Crispy Chicken Bites Without a Mess?
Coating your chicken evenly and cooking over the right heat is key to crispy bites. Here’s how I do it:
- Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch and shake off excess to avoid soggy coating.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat until shimmering — this helps crisp the coating quickly without absorbing too much oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed so the chicken fries evenly and stays crispy.
- Turn pieces carefully after a few minutes to get a golden crust on all sides.
After frying, remove chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil. This simple method keeps the bites crunchy before adding the sticky sauce, so you get the best texture and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – I find it’s best for quick frying and stirring everything together easily.
- Mixing bowls – handy for tossing the chicken in cornstarch and mixing the sauce ingredients.
- Tongs – make turning the chicken pieces simple and keep your hands clean.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate sauce ingredients and coating measurements.
- Cooking thermometer (optional) – helps ensure the chicken reaches the right internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying, keeping everything crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding a splash of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick if you like heat.
- Mix in thinly sliced bell peppers or steamed broccoli to make it more colorful and veggie-packed.
- Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos for a lower-sodium, soy-free version.
- For extra nuttiness, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For The Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
To Serve:
- Cooked white rice or brown rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so in around 25 minutes you’ll have a delicious meal ready. Perfect for a quick dinner or an easy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Coat and Cook the Chicken Bites:
Put the bite-sized chicken pieces in a bowl and toss them well with cornstarch. Shake off any extra cornstarch to avoid clumps. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken bites and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic into the same skillet. Stir it for about 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely garlic aroma – be careful not to burn it. Then, add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and looks shiny.
3. Toss Chicken in Sauce and Serve:
Put the cooked chicken bites back into the skillet and toss them well so that every piece is covered with the sticky honey garlic sauce. Once everything is well-coated, turn off the heat. Serve your delicious chicken bites over cooked rice. Sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top for a fresh, nutty finish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by placing the chicken in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture for better crispiness.
Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces on a greased baking sheet in a single layer, then bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and crispy. Then toss with the sauce as usual.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken bites and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce from sticking or burning.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness or Heat?
Yes! Feel free to add more honey if you prefer a sweeter dish, or increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add sriracha for a spicier kick. Adjust the amount gradually to fit your taste.
