Healthier honey chicken recipe revealed: no cornstarch, all flavor

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of honey chicken without the use of cornstarch. This delectable recipe will guide you through the steps of creating a crispy, savory dish that is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/2 inch. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
3. Create the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is slightly caramelized.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for a Perfect Honey Chicken:

• Use high-quality honey for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• Adjust the amount of soy sauce and honey to your taste preferences.
• If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as steamed broccoli, carrots, or rice.

Variations:

• Spicy Honey Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
• Sesame Honey Chicken: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving for an extra nutty flavor.
• Honey Garlic Chicken: Add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic to the sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

In a nutshell: A Culinary Triumph

This honey chicken recipe without cornstarch is a testament to the versatility of this beloved dish. Whether you prefer it sweet, savory, or with a touch of spice, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. So gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you satisfied and craving for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use cornstarch instead of flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cornstarch for flour if you prefer. However, the consistency of the sauce may be slightly thinner.

• How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.

• Can I freeze the honey chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the honey chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• What are some good side dishes to serve with honey chicken?

Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, and spring rolls are all excellent side dishes for honey chicken.

• How do I store the leftover honey chicken?

Store the leftover honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.