This recipe for Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken delivers tender, crispy chicken bites coated in a sweet, spicy, and sticky honey-Sriracha sauce. It’s perfect as a quick weeknight dinner served over rice or salad, or as a party appetizer served with toothpicks.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Honey-Garlic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For Serving:

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. In separate shallow dishes, place beaten eggs and panko breadcrumbs. Dip chicken pieces in the egg, shaking off the excess, and then coat them with breadcrumbs.
3. Arrange the chicken pieces on the baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
4. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk together honey, soy sauce, Sriracha, and garlic powder. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir it into the saucepan. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Pour the sauce over the baked chicken and gently toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately over rice, topped with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Approximate Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: ~300-350
• Protein: ~25g (from chicken and egg)
• Fat: ~8g (from egg and minimal fat in breadcrumbs)
• Carbohydrates: ~35g (from honey, breadcrumbs, and cornstarch)
  • Sugars: ~15-20g (from honey)
  • Fiber: ~1g
• Sodium: ~600-700mg (from soy sauce and breadcrumbs)
• Cholesterol: ~100-120mg (from chicken and egg)

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This dish is a showstopper for several reasons. First, the baking technique provides a crisp texture without the need for deep frying, making it a more wholesome option. The secret lies in the use of panko breadcrumbs, which deliver a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. Additionally, the honey-garlic sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory, with a mild heat that can be adjusted to your liking. The use of simple ingredients ensures this recipe is both approachable and economical.

Beyond its flavor, this recipe is versatile. You can serve it as a main dish over rice or salad for a complete meal or transform it into bite-sized appetizers for gatherings. The garnish of green onions and sesame seeds not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

The Appeal of Oven-Baked Crunch

One of the highlights of this recipe is the crispy coating on the chicken, achieved entirely through baking. Unlike frying, baking eliminates the need for excess oil, reducing the overall fat content without compromising on texture. This makes the dish suitable for those who are health-conscious or looking to cut back on fried foods. The even heat of the oven ensures a golden-brown finish, while the panko breadcrumbs provide that signature crunch.

The process of coating the chicken with egg and breadcrumbs ensures a proper adherence, so the texture holds up even when the sauce is added. This step-by-step approach guarantees that every bite is packed with flavor and crunch.

A Sauce That Steals the Show

The honey-garlic sauce is the true star of this recipe. Its sticky consistency clings to each chicken bite, delivering a mouthful of flavor in every piece. Honey provides natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory soy sauce and aromatic garlic. The addition of Sriracha introduces a subtle heat, which can be customized based on your spice tolerance. For a milder version, you can reduce the Sriracha or replace it with a pinch of chili flakes for a less intense kick.

To achieve the ideal sauce consistency, cornstarch is used as a thickening agent. When mixed with water to create a slurry, it prevents clumping and ensures the sauce is smooth and glossy. This step is crucial in creating the irresistible coating that sets this dish apart.

Versatility in Serving

This Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken offers endless possibilities for serving. As a main course, it pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even a fresh green salad. The sauce seeps into the rice, adding layers of flavor to the meal. Alternatively, the chicken can be served as a party appetizer. Simply skewer the chicken bites with toothpicks and arrange them on a platter for an easy-to-eat crowd-pleaser.

For an elevated presentation, garnish the dish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce a slight nutty flavor and fresh aroma.

Health Benefits of the Dish

This recipe provides a balanced nutritional profile, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge without overindulging. The chicken serves as a lean protein source, while the honey and cornstarch add a touch of natural sweetness without going overboard on calories. Baking the chicken instead of frying significantly reduces the fat content, making it a lighter option compared to traditional fried chicken recipes.

The use of garlic powder and green onions contributes additional health benefits. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, while green onions provide vitamins A and C. The sesame seeds, though used in small quantities, offer a dose of healthy fats and antioxidants.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. If you’re cooking for a crowd with varying preferences, you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit different tastes. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider increasing the amount of Sriracha or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, for a sweeter sauce, you can increase the honey slightly or add a touch of brown sugar.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use tamari instead of soy sauce. Similarly, you can make the dish keto-friendly by using crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and replacing the honey with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol.

Vegetarians can also enjoy the flavors of this recipe by swapping out the chicken for cauliflower florets or tofu cubes. The preparation and sauce remain the same, resulting in a delicious plant-based alternative.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this recipe, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Ensure Even Coating: Shake off excess egg and breadcrumbs during the coating process to prevent clumping and ensure an even crust on the chicken.
2. Avoid Overcrowding: Space out the chicken pieces on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate and ensure they crisp up evenly.
3. Monitor the Sauce: Be careful not to overcook the sauce, as it can thicken too much and become difficult to toss with the chicken.
4. Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the chicken immediately after tossing it in the sauce to maintain the crispiness of the coating.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a dish that effortlessly combines flavor, texture, and nutrition. Its crunchy baked coating and sticky honey-garlic sauce make it a crowd favorite, while its versatility ensures it can be tailored to suit a variety of preferences and occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a bite-sized appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

By offering a healthier take on traditional fried chicken without sacrificing taste, this dish has something for everyone. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe that even novice cooks can master. From weeknight dinners to special gatherings, Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a reliable go-to that deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire.