Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are little pockets of juicy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and garlicky sauce that makes every bite a delight. These bite-sized pieces are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with that perfect balance of honey sweetness and savory garlic flavor that just feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love making these because they’re so quick and easy, and the sauce always turns out just right—glossy and delicious without being too sticky. I usually toss the chicken in a simple honey-garlic mixture and let it do the magic while cooking. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and I find myself sneaking a few bites before anyone else can!
My favorite way to enjoy these chicken bites is with some steamed rice or a crisp side salad to cut through the sweetness. They’re also great as a fun appetizer when friends come over. Sometimes, I even add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes to mix things up. These bites make weeknight dinners something to look forward to!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs stay juicier but breasts are leaner. Choose what you prefer or have on hand!
Flour: The all-purpose flour helps create a light coating that crisps nicely. If you want a gluten-free option, try rice flour or cornstarch—they work great too.
Honey: This adds the natural sweetness. You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different, but still sweet, flavor.
Soy Sauce: It brings saltiness and umami. Use low sodium to control saltiness. For gluten-free, tamari is a perfect substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the boldest flavor. Garlic powder could work in a pinch but fresh is best here.
How Do You Get That Sticky, Glossy Honey Garlic Sauce Just Right?
The sauce is the star! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by sautéing garlic just briefly to avoid bitterness.
- Add honey, soy sauce, and vinegar and bring it to a gentle simmer—this helps blend flavors.
- To make it shiny and thicker, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water). Stir constantly until the sauce glazes the spoon.
- Toss the chicken right in the sauce off the heat to avoid burning the honey.
Taking these small steps helps you get a sauce that clings perfectly without being runny or sticky in a bad way!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a big one to fry the chicken evenly and make tossing the sauce easier.
- Mixing bowls – for coating the chicken and making the cornstarch slurry.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon – handy for turning and removing the chicken without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients accurate and your sauce just right.
- Paper towels – use them to drain excess oil and keep things crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
- Flavor boost: Mix in a teaspoon of grated ginger or a splash of sesame oil for extra depth.
- Extra veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or chopped green onions for more crunch and color.
- Cheese touch: Top with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture.
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh chopped scallions or cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked couscous or rice, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10–15 minutes for preparation and frying, plus a few minutes more to make and thicken the sauce. Overall, you can have this tasty dish ready in 20 to 25 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Coat the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, tossing until they’re evenly coated. Shake off the extra flour so the coating won’t be too thick.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (fry in batches if there’s too much). Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
3. Make the Sauce:
Keeping the skillet at medium heat, remove some oil from the pan but leave about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, add honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir gently and bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce and Coat the Chicken:
If you want a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring until the sauce becomes shiny and thick. Add the fried chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat each piece well with the sticky sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Turn off the heat, then transfer the chicken bites to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chopped scallions or cilantro. Serve over steamed couscous or rice if you like.
Enjoy these sweet, garlicky bites that are sure to become a favorite go-to meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat dry to remove excess moisture before coating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when coating the chicken. Also choose tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Can I Prepare Honey Garlic Chicken Bites in Advance?
You can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, tossing chicken in the sauce to recoat before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through to preserve crispiness and sauce texture.
