Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its flavor and texture. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten the Chicken Breasts:
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Season the Flour:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Mix well.
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In another shallow dish, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon of water until well combined.
- Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
- Place 1 cup of breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Coat in Flour:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, coating both sides well.
- Dip in Egg Wash:
- Dip the floured chicken breasts into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat in Breadcrumbs:
- Finally, coat the chicken breasts in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
- Melt the Butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the Garlic:
- Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Add the Honey and Soy Sauce:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of honey and 1/4 cup of soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Coat the Chicken:
- Place the cooked chicken breasts on a serving platter and pour the honey garlic sauce over them, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Serve:
- Serve the Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly pounded to ensure even cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy crust. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
- Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce by varying the amount of honey and soy sauce to taste.
Variations
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips before breading and frying for delicious chicken tenders.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? A: Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: What can I serve with Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken? A: This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, the honey garlic sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Double Crunch Honey Garlic Chicken Breast is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, breaded chicken and sweet, savory sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful meal with your family and friends!