A Sweet Memory of Summer and Sizzle
Every time the sun starts to shine brighter and the evenings stretch out longer, I think of my grandmother’s front porch in Tennessee — where she’d fry up the crispiest chicken you’ve ever tasted. But what really stood out was her secret glaze: a sweet, sticky honey garlic sauce she drizzled over that golden crust just before serving. It was pure summer magic. This Honey Garlic Chicken Crispy recipe is my spin on her classic, with a little modern crunch and a lot of nostalgic soul.
Whether you’re throwing a backyard cookout or just want something mouthwatering for a summer dinner, this recipe is sure to be the star of your table.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into strips)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
• 4 tbsp honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
1. In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture.
3. Set on a tray and let rest for 5 minutes — this helps the coating stick better during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
1. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally.
3. Fry each batch for about 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
1. In a small saucepan, add a splash of oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant (1 minute).
2. Add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Stir in sesame oil and remove from heat.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve
1. Toss the crispy chicken in the warm honey garlic sauce or drizzle over just before serving.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a fresh summer finish.
Summer Serving Suggestions
• With fresh slaw: Serve on a bed of crunchy summer slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• As a sandwich: Pile into brioche buns with pickles and extra sauce.
• In a bowl: Over jasmine rice with avocado and steamed greens.
Variations & Tips
• Air-fried option: Spray coated chicken lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Extra crispy trick: Double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
• Gluten-free swap: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Expert Tip
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after coating allows the flour mixture to set — creating a crispier crust. And don’t skip the cornstarch — it’s the secret to that signature crunch!
Why This Dish Shines in Summer
Crispy, sticky, and oh-so-satisfying — this recipe is made for long, lazy summer days. The light sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with grilled veggies, chilled lemonade, or even a cold beer. It’s comfort food made bright and seasonal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can fry the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness, then toss in warm honey garlic sauce just before serving.
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Absolutely. Bake the coated chicken pieces at 425°F (220°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious.
What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless thighs offer the juiciest results, but breasts work great too. Just make sure to slice evenly for uniform cooking.
Is the sauce spicy?
Not unless you add chili flakes. The base sauce is sweet and garlicky. Feel free to customize the heat level to your taste.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
Conclusion
There’s something irresistible about the balance of crispy and sticky, sweet and savory. This Honey Garlic Chicken Crispy recipe brings all that and more — wrapped in warm summer vibes and a little Southern charm. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight meal or planning a laid-back backyard feast, this dish is your ticket to golden perfection.
So grab your apron, heat that oil, and let the scent of garlic and honey take over your kitchen. And remember — food tastes even better when shared with people you love. Happy cooking!