Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken: Sweet and Crunchy Recipe

Discover how to make Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken, featuring a super crunchy exterior and a sticky honey garlic sauce. Perfect for an indulgent meal ready in just 30 minutes!

Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken is a family favorite recipe that combines the ultimate crunch with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. This dish is extremely popular, and for a good reason—it offers the perfect blend of crispy breaded chicken and a sticky, mouth-watering glaze. The key to the signature crunch comes from double-dipping the chicken in a spiced flour mixture and egg wash. This method results in an extra crispy exterior that pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.

This recipe has been loved by many and is incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for more ideas, try out this Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings, which utilizes the same delicious honey garlic sauce and can be easily adapted for chicken wings.

For those who prefer baked versions of classic fried dishes, you can also make a healthier oven-baked version of this dish without losing the crunch. Visit Our Most Popular Recipes for more delectable ideas.

Key Ingredients

To create the perfect Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken, you need:

• Chicken Breasts (4 large, boneless, skinless): Pounded to an even 1/2 inch thickness.
• Flour (2 cups): Used for dredging the chicken to achieve the double crunch.
• Salt (4 tsp): For seasoning the flour dredge mixture.
• Black Pepper (4 tsp): Adds some bite to the seasoning.
• Ground Ginger (3 tbsp): Provides a warm, aromatic spice to the flour coating.
• Ground Nutmeg (1 tbsp): A subtle addition that adds a unique warmth.
• Ground Thyme (2 tsp): Complements the other herbs well.
• Ground Sage (2 tsp): A traditional herb that adds depth.
• Cayenne Pepper (1 tsp): To add a touch of heat.
• Paprika (2 tbsp): Adds a mild, smoky flavor and color to the chicken.
• Eggs (4): Used to create an egg wash for the chicken.
• Water (8 tbsp): Mixed with the eggs for dipping.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used in the honey garlic sauce.
• Minced Garlic (3-4 cloves): Essential for the sauce’s rich flavor.
• Honey (1 cup): The base of the sauce, providing the signature sweetness.
• Soy Sauce (1/4 cup, low sodium): Balances the sweetness with a salty element.
• Canola Oil: For frying the chicken until golden brown.

Equipment Needed

To make Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken, you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: Preferably non-stick or cast iron for frying the chicken.
• Meat Mallet: To pound the chicken to an even thickness.
• Mixing Bowls: For the flour mixture and the egg wash.
• Tongs: To handle the chicken safely while frying.
• Wire Rack: To drain the chicken after frying, keeping it crisp.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Here’s how to make the perfect Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken:

Pre-Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even 1/2 inch thickness.
2. Prepare the Flour Coating:
   • In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, salt, black pepper, ground ginger, nutmeg, thyme, sage, cayenne pepper, and paprika. This spiced flour mixture will create the perfect crunchy coating.
3. Create the Egg Wash:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and water to form an egg wash.

Cooking

1. Coat the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dip each piece in the flour mixture, then in the egg wash, and finally back into the flour mixture, pressing to ensure it adheres well.
2. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat a skillet on the stove with about a half inch of canola oil covering the bottom. Regulate the temperature to ensure the chicken does not brown too quickly.
   • Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, add olive oil and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the garlic is softened but not browned.
   • Add the honey, soy sauce, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Coat the Chicken in Sauce:
   • Dip each fried chicken breast into the honey garlic sauce, ensuring it is well-coated.

Baked Version (Alternative)

• Preheat the oven to 425°F. Follow the recipe for preparing and coating the chicken. Place on a preheated, lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, flip, then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crispy.

Tips and Tricks

To make your Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken even better, keep these tips in mind:

• Regulate the Oil Temperature: Maintain medium heat to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the exterior.
• Pound the Chicken Evenly: This ensures even cooking and prevents any parts from drying out.
• Use a Wire Rack: Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack rather than paper towels to keep it crispy.

Nutritional Information

A detailed breakdown of the nutritional content for Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken:

• Calories: 551 kcal per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 77g
• Fat: 17g
• Sugar: 70g
• A rich dish that delivers on flavor but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its sugar content.

FAQs

1. Q: How do I make the baked version crispy?
   A: Preheat the baking sheet and spray the tops of the chicken with oil. This will help them crisp up in the oven.
2. Q: Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
   A: You can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying or baking.
3. Q: What side dishes go well with Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken?
   A: Serve it with Chinese egg noodles, steamed vegetables, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
4. Q: How do I store leftovers?
   A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Egg Noodles: Lightly toss the noodles in the honey garlic sauce for a cohesive meal.
• Rice and Vegetables: Serve with steamed jasmine rice and sautéed green beans for a balanced meal.
• As a Sandwich: Slice the chicken and add to a sandwich with lettuce and pickles for a delicious alternative.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the coating crispy.

Conclusion

Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect recipe when you want a combination of sweet, savory, and ultra-crispy textures. The honey garlic sauce adds a glossy, sticky finish that takes the crispy chicken to the next level. Whether you’re serving it with simple sides or adding it to a hearty meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Feel free to experiment with other meats, add a spicy twist, or try the baked version if you prefer a healthier option. Don’t forget to explore our Chicken Recipes Gallery for more dinner ideas!