This crispy honey chilli chicken recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, offering a delightful alternative to takeaway-style dishes. It’s made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, and it can be whipped up in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This honey chilli chicken is the ideal recipe for those who crave a crispy, tangy, and sweet dish with a bit of spice. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.

• Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a homemade, crispy chicken dish that’s just as satisfying as your favorite takeaway.

• Customizable: The dish is highly adaptable. You can easily adjust the spice level or even switch out the chicken for beef or tofu, depending on your preference.

• Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a dinner party, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into large chunks

• 75 g (4 tablespoons) cornstarch or plain flour, seasoned with salt and pepper

• 300 ml (1 ⅕ cups) vegetable oil, for frying

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

• 4 teaspoons soy sauce

• 150 ml (¾ cups) water

• Juice of 2 limes

• 4 teaspoons cornstarch

• 4 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons ginger, finely sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For serving:

• Fresh red chili slices, de-seeded, to preference

• Spring onions, sliced, to preference

• Chopped coriander, to preference

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preparing the Chicken: Mix the cornstarch or flour with salt and pepper. Coat chicken chunks in the seasoned flour mix and set aside.

2. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Drain excess oil from the chicken using paper towels.

3. Create the Sauce: In a separate pan, sauté ginger, garlic, and chili slices for about a minute. Pour in honey and stir for another minute. Add lime juice, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, water, and cornstarch. Stir until the sauce thickens and boils.

4. Combine: Add the fried chicken into the sauce and toss well to coat each piece.

5. Garnish: Top with spring onions, fresh chili slices, and chopped coriander. Serve with rice for the perfect meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Meat Choices: While chicken is the classic option, feel free to use beef or prawns instead.

• Vegetarian Option: Tofu makes an excellent substitute for chicken, offering a similar texture while keeping the dish vegetarian.

• Adjusting Spice: Modify the level of heat by adjusting the amount of chili slices used or by omitting the seeds for a milder flavor.

• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the sauce for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover honey chilli chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: The best way to reheat is in the oven or air fryer to retain the crispy texture. If using a microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add a bit more richness to the dish, making it even more flavorful. Just ensure they are cooked through.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?

Increase the amount of fresh chili slices or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While freezing is possible, the chicken may lose its crispiness when reheated. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.

4. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use plain flour instead of cornstarch if you prefer, though cornstarch often yields a crispier coating.

5. How do I test if the oil is hot enough for frying?

Insert the end of a wooden spoon or chopstick into the oil. If it bubbles, the oil is hot enough. If there’s no bubbling, the oil isn’t ready.

6. Can I skip marinating the chicken?

While marinating the chicken enhances the flavor, you can skip it if you’re short on time. Just season the chicken well before coating it.

7. Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?

Fresh lime juice provides the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

8. What can I serve this dish with?

Serve with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp salad.

9. How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or mix in a small amount of cornstarch with water.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Conclusion

This easy crispy honey chilli chicken recipe is a fantastic dish to prepare when you want something sweet, spicy, and crispy all at once. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires no special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. With the flexibility to customize it to your liking, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!