Honey Chilli Chicken Recipe – A Perfect Balance of Sweet & Spicy Flavors

Honey Chilli Chicken is a mouthwatering Indo-Chinese dish that brings together crispy fried chicken coated in a glossy, sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy sauce. This restaurant-style dish is perfect for those who love a combination of heat and sweetness in their meals. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or paired with fried rice or noodles, it is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making the best honey chilli chicken at home. From the right ingredients and cooking techniques to nutritional information and serving suggestions, you’ll have a foolproof guide to preparing this dish like a pro.

Introduction to Honey Chilli Chicken

What is Honey Chilli Chicken?

Honey Chilli Chicken is a crispy fried chicken dish tossed in a sticky honey chilli sauce that perfectly balances sweetness, spiciness, and a hint of tanginess. This dish is inspired by Chinese cuisine but has become extremely popular in Indian-Chinese fusion food, often served in restaurants and street stalls across Asia.

The chicken is first coated in a light batter and fried until crispy. Then, it’s tossed in a flavorful sauce made of honey, soy sauce, garlic, red chili flakes, and vinegar to give it a perfect glaze and depth of flavor. The result? A crunchy yet juicy dish that’s hard to resist!

Origins and Popularity of Honey Chilli Chicken

While the exact origin of honey chilli chicken is unclear, it is heavily influenced by Chinese cuisine, particularly sweet and sour chicken. Over time, this dish has evolved into a popular Indo-Chinese favorite, found in Indian street food stalls, high-end restaurants, and home kitchens alike.

Its popularity can be attributed to its unique balance of flavors:

• Sweetness from honey
• Spiciness from red chili flakes or fresh chilies
• Tanginess from vinegar and soy sauce
• Savory umami from garlic and soy sauce

This combination makes it a perfect appetizer or main dish, appealing to those who love bold flavors with a crispy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful dishes, this honey chilli chicken recipe is a must-try! Here’s why:
✅ Quick and Easy – Takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
✅ Better Than Takeout – Fresh, homemade, and free from additives or preservatives.
✅ Perfectly Balanced – Not too sweet, not too spicy—just right.
✅ Versatile – Can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course with rice or noodles.
✅ Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your preference and experiment with different ingredients.

Ingredients Needed for Honey Chilli Chicken

To make the perfect honey chilli chicken, you need the right balance of crispy fried chicken and sweet-spicy sauce. Below are the essential ingredients required, along with possible substitutes to cater to different dietary needs.

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken Coating

The key to a crispy texture is a well-seasoned batter. Here’s what you’ll need:

Key Ingredients for the Honey Chilli Sauce

The honey chilli sauce is the star of this dish, giving it its signature sweet, spicy, and tangy taste.

Substitutes and Variations for Dietary Preferences

Want to make this dish healthier or suitable for different diets? Here are some easy swaps:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use rice flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, and replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Vegan/Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with tofu, cauliflower, or mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
• Healthier Cooking Methods: Instead of deep-frying, you can air-fry or bake the chicken for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Honey Chilli Chicken

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process to make crispy, flavorful honey chilli chicken. Follow these simple instructions to create a restaurant-style dish at home.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

The first step is to coat and fry the chicken for that perfect crunch.

Ingredients for the Chicken Coating:

• 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ¼ cup cornflour (cornstarch)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg (or yogurt for egg-free option)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
• Oil for frying

Instructions for Frying the Chicken:

1. Marinate the chicken – In a mixing bowl, add chicken pieces, ginger-garlic paste, salt, black pepper, and red chili powder. Mix well.
2. Prepare the batter – Add cornflour, all-purpose flour, and egg. Mix until the chicken is well coated. The batter should be slightly thick.
3. Heat oil – In a deep pan or wok, heat enough oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the chicken – Drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in small batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain excess oil – Remove the fried chicken and place it on a paper towel to absorb any extra oil.

💡 Tip: For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken! Fry once for 3-4 minutes, remove from oil, let it rest for 5 minutes, and fry again for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Making the Perfect Honey Chilli Sauce

Now that our chicken is crispy, let’s prepare the sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce.

Ingredients for the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (rice vinegar or white vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced or paste)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated or paste)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cornflour mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon spring onions (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions for the Sauce:

1. Heat oil in a pan – Add 1 tablespoon oil and heat over medium flame.
2. Sauté aromatics – Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add sauces – Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, and honey. Mix well.
4. Spice it up – Add red chili flakes and salt. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
5. Thicken the sauce – Pour in the cornflour slurry (cornflour + water mixture). Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Taste & Adjust – Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness, spiciness, or tanginess as needed.

💡 Tip: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water to adjust consistency.

Step 3: Combining the Chicken with the Sauce

Now it’s time to coat our crispy fried chicken with the delicious honey chilli sauce.

1. Toss the chicken – Add the fried chicken into the pan with the sauce.
2. Mix well – Stir the chicken until each piece is evenly coated with the sticky honey chilli sauce.
3. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for extra flavor.

💡 Tip: For extra crunch, you can also add sliced bell peppers or onions to the sauce before adding the chicken.

Final Thoughts on Making Honey Chilli Chicken

✅ Crispy & Flavorful – The batter-fried chicken stays crunchy even after being coated in the sauce.
✅ Balanced Sweet & Spicy Flavor – The honey gives it the perfect sweetness while the red chili adds just the right amount of heat.
✅ Easy & Quick to Make – This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party snack.

Tips and Tricks for Crispy and Flavorful Honey Chilli Chicken

Making honey chilli chicken at home is easy, but achieving that restaurant-quality crispiness and flavor requires a few pro tips. Below, we’ll cover how to keep the chicken extra crispy, balance the flavors perfectly, and explore healthier cooking methods without compromising taste.

How to Get the Chicken Extra Crispy

The crispiness of the chicken is what makes this dish so irresistible. Follow these steps to get the crispiest fried chicken possible:

✅ Use Cornflour (Cornstarch) & Flour Combination – A mix of cornflour and all-purpose flour creates a light yet crunchy coating. For a gluten-free option, use rice flour instead.

✅ Double-Frying Method – To keep the chicken crispy for longer, fry it twice:

• First Fry: Fry at medium heat (325°F/165°C) for 3-4 minutes until pale golden.
• Second Fry: Increase the heat to 375°F/190°C and fry for another 2-3 minutes until deep golden brown.

✅ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and prevent soggy pieces.

✅ Drain on a Wire Rack Instead of Paper Towels – This helps the excess oil drip away without making the chicken greasy and soft.

✅ Air-Fryer Method (Healthier Option) – If you want a healthier alternative, air-fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Adjusting Spice Levels for Personal Taste

The spice level in honey chilli chicken is easily adjustable to suit your preference:

🌶 For More Heat:

• Add extra red chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies to the sauce.
• Drizzle in sriracha or hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.

🍯 For More Sweetness:

• Increase the honey for a sweeter taste.
• Reduce chili flakes if you prefer a milder version.

🍋 For More Tanginess:

• Add an extra teaspoon of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
• A dash of tamarind paste can add a unique tangy twist.

💡 Pro Tip: Always taste the sauce before adding the chicken and adjust the sweetness, spice, and tanginess to your liking.

Best Oil for Frying and Healthier Cooking Methods

Choosing the right oil and cooking method can make a big difference in flavor and health:

🛢 Best Oils for Deep Frying:

• Vegetable Oil – Neutral flavor, great for deep frying.
• Peanut Oil – High smoke point, adds a slight nutty taste.
• Sunflower or Canola Oil – A healthier option with minimal taste.

🔥 Healthier Cooking Methods:
1️⃣ Air Frying – Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, spray with oil for extra crispiness.
2️⃣ Baking – Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
3️⃣ Shallow Frying – Use less oil by frying in a non-stick pan and flipping halfway.

Final Thoughts on Perfecting Honey Chilli Chicken

By following these tips, you can ensure your honey chilli chicken is always crispy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

✅ Double-fry the chicken for extra crispiness.
✅ Adjust the spice and sweetness to match your taste.
✅ Use healthier alternatives like air-frying or baking.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Chilli Chicken

Honey Chilli Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in multiple ways, making it perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a main course. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a quick dinner, here are the best ways to serve and enjoy honey chilli chicken.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Honey Chilli Chicken

Honey Chilli Chicken is packed with sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, so pairing it with the right side dishes enhances the meal experience.

🥢 Chinese-Inspired Sides:

• Egg Fried Rice – A classic combination that balances the flavors.
• Hakka Noodles – Stir-fried noodles with soy sauce and vegetables make a perfect pairing.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry – A light, healthy side to complement the dish.
• Spring Rolls – Crispy rolls filled with veggies and served with dipping sauce.

🍚 Indian Fusion Sides:

• Jeera Rice – Simple cumin-flavored rice that absorbs the sauce well.
• Garlic Naan or Paratha – A fun fusion twist for those who love bread-based meals.
• Spicy Masala Fries – Crispy fries tossed in chili powder to match the heat of the dish.

🥗 Healthy Pairings:

• Quinoa or Brown Rice – A nutritious alternative to white rice.
• Fresh Cucumber Salad – Refreshing and cooling against the spice.
• Steamed Broccoli or Bok Choy – Adds fiber and nutrition to the meal.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve with a side of extra honey chilli sauce for dipping or drizzling over rice/noodles.

How to Garnish for Maximum Flavor

A well-garnished dish not only looks appealing but also enhances taste and texture. Here’s how to elevate honey chilli chicken with the right toppings:

✔ Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
✔ Spring Onions (Green Onions) – Brings freshness and a mild onion taste.
✔ Chopped Cilantro (Coriander) – For an extra layer of freshness.
✔ Lemon Wedges – Squeeze over the chicken before serving for added tang.
✔ Chili Slices – Fresh red or green chilies for an extra spicy kick.

💡 Pro Tip: Lightly toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling for a more intense nutty flavor.

Meal Prepping and Storing Leftovers

If you want to prepare honey chilli chicken in advance or save leftovers, follow these storage tips to keep it fresh and crispy.

🧊 Storing Leftovers:

• Store the fried chicken and sauce separately to prevent sogginess.
• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.

🥡 Freezing Option:

• You can freeze the fried chicken (without sauce) for up to 1 month.
• Reheat in the air fryer or oven before tossing it in freshly made honey chilli sauce.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving leftovers, as it makes the chicken soft and soggy.

Final Thoughts on Serving Honey Chilli Chicken

✅ Pair with rice, noodles, or salad for a complete meal.
✅ Garnish with sesame seeds, spring onions, and fresh chilies for the best presentation.
✅ Store fried chicken separately from sauce to maintain crispiness.

Pair your honey chilli chicken with a cozy dish like this Italian pastina soup for a comforting meal!

Nutritional Information and Calories in Honey Chilli Chicken

Honey Chilli Chicken is an irresistible dish, but if you’re mindful of your calorie intake or looking for a healthier version, understanding its nutritional breakdown is important. Here, we’ll explore the calories per serving, macronutrient breakdown, and ways to make a lighter version of this dish.

How Many Calories Are in Honey Chilli Chicken?

The calorie count in Honey Chilli Chicken depends on the cooking method and portion size. Below is an estimated breakdown for one serving (about 200g) of the dish, assuming it’s deep-fried and coated in sauce.

💡 Note: Calories can vary depending on the amount of oil, honey, and frying method used.

Macronutrient Breakdown

• 🥩 Protein (25g per serving): Comes from chicken; helps with muscle repair and keeps you full.
• 🍚 Carbohydrates (45g per serving): Mostly from cornflour, all-purpose flour, and honey; provides energy.
• 🛢 Fats (18g per serving): Comes from frying oil; can be reduced with healthier cooking methods.
• 🧂 Sodium (800mg per serving): Comes from soy sauce and seasoning; opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
• 🍯 Sugar (15g per serving): Comes from honey and ketchup; adjust based on your preference.

Healthier Alternatives to Reduce Calories

Want to enjoy Honey Chilli Chicken guilt-free? Here are some simple swaps:

🥢 Healthier Cooking Methods:

• Air-Fry Instead of Deep-Fry – Reduces fat content by 50% or more.
• Bake Instead of Fry – Use minimal oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes.

🍚 Low-Calorie Ingredient Substitutes:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour or Rice Flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Reduce Honey to 1.5 tablespoons to cut sugar and calories.
• Use Lean Chicken Breast instead of thighs to lower fat content.
• Use Coconut Aminos or Low-Sodium Soy Sauce for less sodium.

🥗 Pair with Healthy Sides:

• Serve with steamed veggies instead of fried rice.
• Pair with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and protein.
• Add more bell peppers and onions to the sauce for extra nutrients.

💡 Pro Tip: Making these small changes can cut calories by 150-200 per serving, making it a healthier, high-protein dish.

Final Thoughts on Honey Chilli Chicken Nutrition

✅ High in protein but can be high in fat and carbs if deep-fried.
✅ Easy to modify for a healthier version by baking or air-frying.
✅ Pair with lighter sides like quinoa or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Variations of Honey Chilli Chicken

Honey Chilli Chicken is a versatile dish that can be modified to suit different diets, preferences, and cooking methods. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian version, a healthier alternative, or a fusion twist, there’s a variation for everyone!

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can still enjoy the delicious sweet and spicy flavors of honey chilli sauce with these meat-free alternatives:

🌱 Crispy Honey Chilli Cauliflower

• Substitute chicken with cauliflower florets.
• Coat them in cornflour and all-purpose flour, then air-fry or bake.
• Follow the same honey chilli sauce recipe for a plant-based version.

🌱 Tofu Honey Chilli

• Use firm tofu, cut into cubes, and pan-fry until golden brown.
• Toss it in the honey chilli sauce for a high-protein, vegetarian alternative.

🌱 Mushroom Honey Chilli

• Use button mushrooms or oyster mushrooms for a meaty texture.
• Fry or roast them before coating them in the sauce.

💡 Vegan Tip: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a completely vegan dish.

Baked vs. Fried: Healthier Cooking Methods

If you want to cut down on oil and calories, try these healthier cooking techniques:

🔥 Air-Fried Honey Chilli Chicken

• Coat the chicken as usual but air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Toss in the sauce after air-frying to keep it crispy.

🔥 Baked Honey Chilli Chicken

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place coated chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

🔥 Shallow-Fried Option

• Use less oil in a non-stick pan instead of deep-frying.
• Fry on medium heat until golden and crispy, then toss in sauce.

💡 Health Tip: These methods reduce fat intake by 50-60% compared to deep-frying.

Indian-Chinese Fusion Twist

Want to give your honey chilli chicken an Indian twist? Try these desi-inspired variations:

🍛 Spicy Masala Honey Chilli Chicken

• Add garam masala, cumin, and coriander powder to the sauce for an Indian kick.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves instead of spring onions.

🍗 Tandoori Honey Chilli Chicken

• Marinate chicken in yogurt, turmeric, and red chili powder before frying.
• This adds a smoky, tandoori-style flavor.

🍚 Honey Chilli Chicken Biryani

• Mix crispy honey chilli chicken with spiced basmati rice for a fusion dish.
• Top with fried onions and chopped mint leaves.

💡 Fusion Tip: Serve honey chilli chicken with parathas or naan for a fun Indo-Chinese meal!

Final Thoughts on Honey Chilli Chicken Variations

Vegetarian options like cauliflower, tofu, or mushrooms work great.
Healthier cooking methods like air-frying or baking help cut calories.
Indian fusion flavors can add a unique twist to the classic dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Making Honey Chilli Chicken

Even though honey chilli chicken is easy to prepare, a few common mistakes can ruin its texture and flavor. Below, we’ll go over the top mistakes people make and how to avoid them for the perfect crispy, flavorful dish every time.

Why the Chicken Turns Soggy

One of the biggest disappointments is when the crispy fried chicken becomes soft and mushy after adding the sauce. Here’s why this happens and how to fix it:

Mistake #1: Not Frying the Chicken at the Right Temperature
✔ Fix: Always heat oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C) before frying. Use a kitchen thermometer or test by dropping a small batter piece—if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.

Mistake #2: Overcrowding the Pan
✔ Fix: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even frying.

Mistake #3: Not Draining the Chicken Properly
✔ Fix: Place fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent steam buildup.

Mistake #4: Adding Sauce Too Early
✔ Fix: Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.

💡 Pro Tip: If you need to prepare in advance, store fried chicken separately and only mix it with the sauce when ready to serve.

Balancing the Sweetness and Spice in the Sauce

Getting the perfect balance of honey, spice, and tanginess can be tricky. Here’s how to get it right:

Mistake #5: Adding Too Much Honey
✔ Fix: Start with 2 tablespoons of honey and adjust as needed. Adding too much can make the sauce overly sweet.

Mistake #6: Not Adjusting the Spice Level
✔ Fix: If the dish is too spicy, add extra honey or a splash of vinegar to balance it. If it’s too sweet, add more chili flakes or hot sauce.

Mistake #7: Not Thickening the Sauce Properly
✔ Fix: Use a cornflour slurry (1 teaspoon cornflour + 2 tablespoons water) to achieve a glossy, restaurant-style consistency.

💡 Pro Tip: Always taste the sauce before adding the chicken to ensure the right balance of flavors.

Overcrowding the Pan While Frying

Frying the chicken the right way is crucial for a crispy texture. Here’s how to do it properly:

Mistake #8: Frying Too Many Pieces at Once
✔ Fix: Fry in small batches, leaving enough space between pieces so they cook evenly.

Mistake #9: Using Low Heat for Frying
✔ Fix: Keep the flame medium-high—if the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy instead of crispy.

Mistake #10: Not Coating the Chicken Properly
✔ Fix: Make sure the batter evenly coats each piece before frying. If the coating is too thick, it can become soggy.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra crunch, double-fry the chicken—first at 325°F (160°C), then again at 375°F (190°C) for ultimate crispiness.

Final Thoughts on Avoiding Common Mistakes

✅ Keep the chicken crispy by frying at the right temperature and adding sauce at the last moment.
✅ Balance the sauce flavors by adjusting honey, spice, and vinegar.
✅ Fry in small batches and avoid overcrowding for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Honey Chilli Chicken

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about honey chilli chicken, covering everything from its taste to its calorie content and uses.

What does honey chilli sauce taste like?

Honey chilli sauce has a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. It combines:

• Sweetness from honey
• Spiciness from red chili flakes
• Tanginess from vinegar or lemon juice
• Umami depth from soy sauce and garlic

This combination makes it sticky, bold, and flavorful, perfect for coating crispy chicken or using as a dip.

💡 Pro Tip: You can adjust the sweetness and spice level to match your personal preference by increasing or decreasing honey and chili flakes.

What does Chinese honey chicken taste like?

Chinese honey chicken is sweet, crispy, and slightly tangy, but it has less spice compared to honey chilli chicken. The coating is typically made with a thicker, glossy honey-based sauce with hints of garlic and soy sauce.

The main differences between Chinese honey chicken and honey chilli chicken:

💡 Pro Tip: If you love sweet dishes, go for Chinese honey chicken. If you enjoy a spicy kick, honey chilli chicken is the best choice!

What is chilli honey used for?

Chilli honey is a versatile condiment that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. Here are some creative ways to use it:

🔥 Savory Uses:

• Drizzle over fried chicken or grilled meats.
• Toss with roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
• Mix into stir-fries or marinades.
• Use as a pizza topping for a spicy-sweet twist.

🍯 Sweet Uses:

• Drizzle over pancakes or waffles.
• Mix with peanut butter on toast.
• Add to yogurt or oatmeal for extra flavor.
• Use as a glaze for baked goods like muffins or biscuits.

💡 Pro Tip: Try mixing honey with chili flakes at home for an easy DIY chilli honey drizzle!

How many calories are in honey chilli chicken from a Chinese restaurant?

The calorie content of restaurant-style honey chilli chicken varies depending on how it’s cooked, but on average:

• Deep-fried versions have higher calories due to the oil absorption.
• Air-fried or baked versions can reduce calories by 150-200 kcal per serving.
• To make it healthier, opt for less honey, use lean chicken breast, and reduce frying oil.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re ordering from a restaurant and want a lighter option, ask for the sauce on the side to control how much you use.

Final Thoughts on Honey Chilli Chicken FAQs

Honey chilli sauce is sweet, spicy, and tangy, making it super versatile.
Chinese honey chicken is sweeter and less spicy than honey chilli chicken.
Chilli honey can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Restaurant versions of honey chilli chicken can be high in calories, but homemade versions can be healthier.

Conclusion: Mastering the Perfect Honey Chilli Chicken

Honey Chilli Chicken is a delicious, crispy, and flavorful dish that balances sweetness, spice, and tanginess in every bite. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, this homemade version is far better than takeout.

Key Takeaways:

Crispy Chicken: Use cornflour + flour, fry at the right temperature, and avoid overcrowding.
Perfectly Balanced Sauce: Adjust honey, chili flakes, and vinegar to suit your taste.
Healthier Options Available: Air-fry or bake instead of deep-frying.
Versatile Dish: Can be made vegetarian, vegan, or fusion-style to suit different diets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t add sauce too early, and always double-fry for extra crispiness.

Ready to Make It? Try It Today!

Now that you know how to make the best honey chilli chicken, it’s time to try it at home! Experiment with flavors, pair it with your favorite sides, and impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish.

Honey Chilli Chicken

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Honey Chilli Chicken is a mouthwatering Indo-Chinese dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. This crispy, fried chicken is coated in a glossy honey chili sauce, making it an irresistible appetizer or side dish. Perfect for parties or a weekend indulgence, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 plate of Honey Chilli Chicken 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Fried Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp cornflour
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Oil (for deep frying)

For the Honey Chilli Sauce:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
• 1 tbsp finely chopped ginger
• 1 green chili (sliced, optional for extra heat)
• ½ cup red and green bell peppers (thinly sliced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp red chili sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 2 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp vinegar
• ½ tsp red chili flakes
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp spring onions (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate and Fry the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with cornflour, all-purpose flour, egg, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Coat well.
2. Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat.
3. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Chilli Sauce

4. In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp oil over medium heat.
5. Add chopped garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
6. Add sliced bell peppers and stir-fry for a minute.
7. Pour in soy sauce, red chili sauce, and tomato ketchup. Mix well.
8. Stir in honey, vinegar, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

9. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss well to coat evenly.
10. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions.
11. Serve hot as an appetizer or side dish. Enjoy!

Notes

• For a healthier version, you can air-fry or bake the chicken instead of deep-frying.
• Adjust the spice level by adding or reducing the chili flakes and green chilies.
• Serve with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Add more honey if you prefer a sweeter taste.

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer / Side Dish
• Cuisine: Indo-Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: Honey Chilli Chicken