If you are craving a dish that hits all the right notes of golden crispiness, sweet and savory garlic flavor, and tender juicy chicken, then this Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It delivers an irresistible crunch with a deliciously sticky garlic-infused glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that satisfies big flavor without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few straightforward yet powerful ingredients is what makes this Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe so approachable and tasty. Each component plays a vital role, from the crunch of breadcrumbs to the rich sweetness of honey, coming together to create a delightful balance.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic offers that essential punch of aromatic, savory flavor that makes the dish shine.
- 6 tablespoons honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create a glossy, sticky coating on the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings a salty depth and umami richness that balances the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce: Introduces smoky undertones and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce: A subtle boost of savory pungency that enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar: Adds just the right amount of acidity to brighten the sauce.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps blend the sauce ingredients into a smooth glaze.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for that perfect clingy texture on the chicken.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into chunks): Tender chicken pieces that soak up the crispy coating and glaze beautifully.
- 1/2 cup flour: Provides a base layer for the breading, helping it stick and crisp up.
- 3 eggs: Acts as glue to hold the breadcrumb coating in place.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Creates the satisfying crunchy exterior everyone loves.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that golden-crispy finish on the chicken.
How to Make Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
Start by whisking together the minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, barbecue sauce, fish sauce, white wine vinegar, water, and cornstarch in a small bowl. This mixture will become your sticky, flavorful glaze that perfectly coats the chicken. Set it aside while you get the chicken ready.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken Chunks
Take your cubed chicken breasts and first dredge them in the flour until lightly coated. Then dip each piece into beaten eggs, ensuring a thorough coating, followed by rolling them generously in breadcrumbs. This three-step coating creates the perfect barrier that crisps up beautifully in hot oil.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken Until Golden
Heat enough oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for shallow frying. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Toss the Chicken in Garlic Sauce
Remove excess oil from your pan and pour in the prepared garlic sauce. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Add the fried chicken chunks back into the pan and toss well to coat every piece with that luscious, sticky garlic glaze.
How to Serve Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the chicken to add a pop of vibrant color and a touch of freshness. A few toasted sesame seeds can also be sprinkled for an extra layer of texture and subtle nuttiness that complements the glaze perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. For a lighter balance, serve alongside sautéed green beans or a crisp cucumber salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken over a bed of buttered noodles or inside crispy lettuce cups for a hands-on meal. You can also arrange bite-sized pieces on skewers to create elegant appetizers at your next gathering — everyone will love that crispy garlic kick!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken separated from any wet sides to maintain its crispiness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked and cooled chicken chunks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents clumping and lets you reheat only what you need, preserving the best texture.
Reheating
To bring back that signature crunch, reheat the chicken in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving, which can make the crust soggy. Toss again in a bit of the garlic sauce if needed to revive the flavor and gloss.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is it possible to bake instead of fry the chicken?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken chunks at 400°F for around 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. While it may not be as crispy as frying, baking is a healthier option that still tastes fantastic.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. Make sure to check that all sauces and condiments used are gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. The garlic sauce can be mixed ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with the chicken to ensure it thickens properly.
What level of heat does this dish have?
This Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe is mildly savory and sweet without being spicy. You can easily add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic glaze if you like some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish will bring smiles and satisfy cravings with every crispy, garlicky bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular delight on your dinner table!
Print
Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken chunks coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, fried to golden perfection and glazed with a sweet and savory garlic-honey sauce. This recipe combines the robust flavors of garlic, soy, and barbecue sauce for an irresistible crispy chicken meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup flour
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Garlic Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken coating: Dredge the chicken chunks first in flour, then dip them into the beaten eggs, and finally coat them evenly with breadcrumbs. This three-step breading process ensures a crispy crust when fried.
- Fry the chicken: Heat sufficient oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken chunks in batches until they turn golden brown and cooked through, usually about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the garlic sauce and combine: In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, barbecue sauce, fish sauce, white wine vinegar, and water. Pour the sauce mixture into a pan along with the minced garlic. Bring to a simmer. Stir the cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry, then add it to the sauce to thicken. Once the sauce is glossy and thickened, toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately for a crispy, flavorful finish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken by dipping into egg and breadcrumbs twice before frying.
- Adjust the amount of honey to control sweetness to your taste.
- If you prefer less oily chicken, bake the coated chicken pieces at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact in the sauce.
