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Delicious Honey Soy Chicken with glaze, served on a plate.

Honey Soy Chicken

A nostalgic and comforting dish, this Honey Soy Chicken combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 1 cup Honey Provides natural sweetness; can substitute with maple syrup.
  • ½ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Delivers the savory component; regular soy sauce is fine but watch the saltiness.
  • ¼ cup Light Brown Sugar Enhances sweetness and caramelizes; white sugar can work as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Adds mild acidity; apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste or Ketchup Enriches the sauce with depth; tomato sauce can be used if out of paste.
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil Infuses a nutty flavor; regular sesame oil is a substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Kicks up flavor; garlic powder can be used if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Adds warmth; fresh ginger can be used as a substitute.
For coating and chicken
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder can be used for a similar effect.
  • 3 tablespoons Water Helps create the cornstarch slurry; chicken broth can be used for flavor.
  • 2 large Eggs (beaten) Helps the coating stick; a flaxseed mixture serves as a vegan substitute.
  • ½ cup Cornstarch Provides a crisp texture; tapioca flour can be used.
  • ½ cup All-purpose Flour Binds the coating; gluten-free flour is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Enhances flavor; kosher salt can be used; adjust amount accordingly.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a hint of spice; can be omitted.
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts The star of the show; thighs can be used for added juiciness.
  • ½ cup Vegetable Oil For frying; neutral oil like canola or sunflower can work.
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (for garnish) Adds texture; can skip if in a rush.
  • 2 tablespoons Thinly Sliced Green Onions (for garnish) Brightens the dish; fresh herbs can be a lovely alternative.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, tomato paste, sesame oil, garlic, and ground ginger.
  2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
  3. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dip chicken pieces in beaten egg, then coat in the cornstarch mixture.
Cooking
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Working in batches, add coated chicken to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  5. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in sauce.
  6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Try marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavors. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F). For a healthier twist, bake the chicken instead of frying. Serve over rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.