Elevate your taste buds with this secret honey chicken recipe using soda water!
What To Know
- While the chicken is frying, bring the remaining batter to a simmer in a small saucepan.
- The bubbles in the soda water help prevent the chicken from absorbing too much oil during frying, resulting in a healthier and less greasy dish.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the honey sauce for a spicy kick.
If you’re craving a sweet and savory dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, look no further than our honey chicken recipe with soda water. This unique and delicious twist on a classic Chinese dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup soda water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Create the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soda water, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Dip and fry: Dip each chicken piece into the batter, making sure to coat it completely. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the sauce: While the chicken is frying, bring the remaining batter to a simmer in a small saucepan. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine and serve: Once the chicken is cooked, add it to the sauce and toss to coat. Sprinkle with green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Benefits of Using Soda Water
Soda water adds a unique twist to this classic recipe by creating a light and crispy texture. Here are some of its benefits:
- Lightens the batter: Soda water contains carbon dioxide, which creates bubbles that make the batter less dense and more airy.
- Adds crunch: The carbonation also creates a crispy exterior on the chicken, giving it a satisfying crunch.
- Reduces oil absorption: The bubbles in the soda water help prevent the chicken from absorbing too much oil during frying, resulting in a healthier and less greasy dish.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Chicken
- Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Cut the chicken evenly: This will ensure that all pieces cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing will make the batter tough.
- Fry in hot oil: This will help the chicken cook quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will prevent the chicken from cooking properly.
- Serve immediately: Honey chicken is best enjoyed fresh from the pan.
Variations
- Spicy honey chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the honey sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sesame honey chicken: Sprinkle with sesame seeds after frying for extra crunch and flavor.
- Orange honey chicken: Add a splash of orange juice to the honey sauce for a citrusy twist.
‘Finishing Touches’
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for garnish.
- Sauce variations: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or hoisin sauce.
- Accompaniments: Pair with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
The Verdict
Our honey chicken recipe with soda water is a game-changer in the world of Chinese takeout. Its crispy texture, tangy sauce, and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use diet soda water?
A: Yes, you can use diet soda water, but keep in mind that it will not add any sweetness to the dish.
Q: Can I bake this recipe instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.