Sweet and Savory Garlic Chicken – Crispy, Tender, and Delicious

Craving something crispy, tender, and packed with flavor? This Sweet and Savory Garlic Chicken is just what you need! With golden, crispy chicken coated in a rich and aromatic garlic sauce, this dish combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s the ideal meal for a weeknight dinner or any occasion where you want something indulgent yet simple to prepare.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken tenders)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the garlic sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a lighter option)
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Start by mixing the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. Coat each piece of chicken in this flour mixture, making sure it’s fully covered. This will create a crispy coating when fried.
2. Fry the Chicken
   In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken to the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce
   In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the sauce while stirring continuously. Continue simmering for about 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
4. Coat the Chicken with Sauce
   Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken back into the skillet. Pour the garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the chicken is coated in the sweet and savory garlic sauce, transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot with steamed rice or a side of vegetables. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet and Savory Garlic Chicken

• Crispy and Tender: The chicken has a perfect crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender and juicy, making every bite satisfying.
• Flavorful Garlic Sauce: The garlic sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, adding a rich and aromatic flavor that complements the crispy chicken.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick steps, this dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet and Savory Garlic Chicken

• Use Chicken Tenders for Quick Cooking: If you’re short on time, chicken tenders cook faster and work perfectly with this recipe.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a sweeter sauce, add more honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
• Double the Sauce: If you want extra sauce for serving over rice or noodles, feel free to double the garlic sauce ingredients.

Conclusion

This Sweet and Savory Garlic Chicken is a showstopper in both flavor and presentation. The crispy chicken, paired with a flavorful, glossy garlic sauce, makes for a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish will surely impress. Try it today and enjoy the deliciousness in every bite!