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Crispy Hot Honey Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe

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4.3 from 9 reviews

Crispy Hot Honey Garlic Chicken Bites are flavorful, tender pieces of chicken coated in a crunchy seasoned crust, fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a spicy, sweet honey garlic sauce. This quick and irresistible appetizer or snack is perfect for sharing and brings together the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory garlic notes.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Chicken and Breading

  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or breasts, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle pepper powder
  • Avocado or olive oil, for frying (about 1 inch depth)

Hot Honey Garlic Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup raw honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Evenly coat the chicken chunks with salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to build a well-rounded flavor base.
  2. Prepare the egg wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and hot sauce until smooth. This mixture will help the breading stick to the chicken.
  3. Mix the breading: Combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, paprika, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and chipotle powder in another bowl for a crunchy and spicy coating.
  4. Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken piece first into the egg wash, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently so the breading adheres. Let the breaded chicken rest briefly to set the crust before frying.
  5. Heat oil and fry: Heat about an inch of avocado or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to 350°F (177°C). Fry the chicken in batches, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Drain excess oil: Remove the chicken and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.
  7. Make the sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook until foamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add minced garlic, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly toasted, another 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Combine sauce ingredients: Whisk in honey, hot sauce, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
  9. Toss chicken in sauce: Immediately toss the fried chicken bites in the warm sauce until evenly coated with the hot honey garlic glaze.
  10. Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot for the best taste and texture experience.

Notes

  • Use avocado or olive oil that can handle medium-high frying temperatures to maintain flavor and safety.
  • Adjust hot sauce and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level for a milder or spicier dish.
  • Ensure the oil reaches 350°F before frying to achieve the perfect crispy crust without absorbing excess oil.
  • Allow the breaded chicken to rest before frying to improve breading adhesion and prevent it from falling off during cooking.
  • Double-check chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) before tossing in sauce.
  • Serve immediately after tossing in sauce to retain crispiness and vibrant flavor.