Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken

Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken is a delicious Indo-Chinese fusion dish that perfectly balances sweetness, spiciness, and crunch. It features crispy fried chicken tossed in a sticky, spicy, and sweet honey-chilli sauce. This dish is incredibly popular in Asian restaurants and makes for a great appetizer or side dish. The combination of crispy texture, flavorful sauce, and a hint of sesame seeds makes it an irresistible treat for spice lovers.

This dish is perfect for gatherings, parties, or even as a snack for a cozy evening. If you love the combination of sweet and spicy flavors, this recipe is a must-try. The best part? You can easily make it at home with simple ingredients!

Ingredients

 The Crispy Fried Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into thin strips)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (maida)
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon ginger paste
• ½ teaspoon garlic paste
• ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
• Oil for deep frying

 The Honey Chilli Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
• 2 green chilies (sliced)
• 1 small onion (sliced)
• 1 small capsicum (bell pepper, sliced)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon red chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons chopped spring onions (for garnish)

Preparation

 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken strips, soy sauce, ginger paste, garlic paste, salt, and black pepper powder.
2. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add an egg and mix well.
3. Gradually add water while stirring to create a smooth, thick batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the chicken strips.

 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
2. Dip each marinated chicken strip into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated.
3. Carefully drop the coated chicken strips into the hot oil and fry in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan.
4. Fry until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy (about 5-6 minutes).
5. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

 4: Prepare the Honey Chilli Sauce

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan or wok over medium heat.
2. Add chopped garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add green chilies and sauté for a few seconds.
4. Toss in sliced onions and capsicum, and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly tender but still crunchy.
5. Add soy sauce, red chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, honey, black pepper powder, chili flakes, and salt. Mix well.
6. Pour in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.

 5: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

1. Add the crispy fried chicken strips to the pan.
2. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly in the honey chilli sauce.
3. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped spring onions over the dish.
2. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with crispy-fried cauliflower, paneer, or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
• Extra Spicy: Add extra red chili flakes or use hot sauce to make it spicier.
• Gluten-Free: Use rice flour instead of all-purpose flour and ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free.
• Air-Fried Version: Instead of deep frying, you can air-fry the chicken for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken; otherwise, it will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even crispiness.
• Adjust the sweetness and spice level of the sauce according to your preference.
• Stir the sauce continuously after adding cornstarch to prevent lumps.
• Serve immediately to maintain the crispy texture of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken as an appetizer with a side of garlic mayonnaise or schezwan sauce.
• Pair it with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra sesame seeds and spring onions for an enhanced presentation.
• Serve with a fresh cucumber and carrot salad to balance the spice.

Tips

• For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken: Fry once at medium heat until golden, then fry again at high heat for a crunchier texture.
• Use a mix of red and green bell peppers for a more colorful presentation.
• If making in advance, keep the fried chicken and sauce separate and toss them together just before serving to maintain crispiness.
• Use honey sparingly if you prefer a more spicy and less sweet taste.
• Adding a pinch of MSG (optional) enhances the umami flavor, just like restaurant-style Chinese dishes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380-450 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fats: 15g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Sugar: 10g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

FAQs

Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless chicken?

A: Yes, but boneless chicken works best for even coating and crispiness. If using bone-in chicken, adjust the frying time accordingly.

Q2: How can I make this dish less spicy?

A: Reduce the number of green chilies and chili flakes. You can also add more honey to balance the spice.

Q3: Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep frying?

A: Yes, you can air-fry at 200°C (400°F) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baking at the same temperature for 20-25 minutes is also an option.

Q4: Can I make the sauce in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before tossing with the chicken.

Q5: What can I serve with Honey Chilli Chicken?

A: It pairs well with fried rice, noodles, or even a simple side of steamed rice.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Chilli Chicken is a delightful fusion dish that brings together crunchiness, spice, and sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family dinner, or just to satisfy your cravings, this dish is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and bold flavors, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Try this recipe today and enjoy restaurant-style Indo-Chinese flavors at home!

Enjoy your crispy, spicy, and sweet Honey Chilli Chicken! 🍗🔥🍯

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