Crispy Honey Chicken Bites

Name: Crispy Honey Chicken Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

I absolutely love making Crispy Honey Chicken Bites, and they never fail to impress. The combination of crispy texture and sweet honey glaze makes these bites an irresistible treat for both kids and adults. I usually whip these up for game nights or family gatherings, and they disappear in no time. With just the right blend of spices and an easy coating technique, I can guarantee these will be a hit. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll be making them again and again!

Created by

Emmas

Last updated on 2026-02-24T18:31:19.248Z

When I first attempted to create Crispy Honey Chicken Bites, I wanted to capture that unforgettable crunch and sweet flavor that makes this dish so special. After several trials, I discovered that double coating the chicken in seasoned flour and Panko breadcrumbs is the secret to achieving that perfect crispiness. This method not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor of the chicken.

I also learned an important lesson about temperature. Ensuring the oil is hot enough before frying helps to seal the chicken quickly, preventing it from becoming soggy. Trust me, once you taste that crunchy exterior paired with the sweet honey glaze, you'll be hooked for life!

Why You'll Love These Bites
Crispy texture that delivers a satisfying crunch
Sweet and sticky honey glaze that perfectly contrasts the savory chicken
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or parties

Mastering the Breading Technique

Breading the chicken bites properly is crucial for that enticing crispy texture. First, ensure each piece of chicken is patted dry before seasoning. This prevents excess moisture from making the breading soggy. After seasoning, let the chicken sit for about 10 minutes; this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste. When breading, take your time to ensure each piece is completely coated in flour, followed by eggs, and finally pressed into the Panko breadcrumbs to form a secure crust.

Using Panko breadcrumbs is key to achieving that ultra-crisp texture. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, Panko is made from crustless bread, giving it a lighter, airier consistency that fries up beautifully. If you can't find Panko, you can replace it with crumbled cornflakes or even crushed tortilla chips for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each alternative may alter the final texture slightly, so adjust frying time accordingly to avoid burning.

Perfecting the Frying Process

Frying the chicken bites at the right temperature is essential for that golden-brown finish. Aim for medium-high heat, around 350°F (175°C). Too low, and the chicken will absorb oil, becoming greasy; too high, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. A great way to test the oil temperature is by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil. If it bubbles and turns golden within 60 seconds, you're ready to fry. Fry in batches to maintain the oil's temperature.

Once the chicken bites are frying, avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and ensures even cooking. Each bite should cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked pieces, allowing excess oil to drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This step keeps them crispy and removes any additional grease.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Honey Chicken Bites can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent option for meal prep. If you're planning to serve them later, allow the bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

For serving, consider pairing these bites with a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the flavor experience. A tangy mustard or a spicy chili sauce offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the honey glaze. You can also garnish with thinly sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. These bites also go well alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a more balanced meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Crispy Honey Chicken Bites:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Crispy Honey Chicken Bites:

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings for enhanced flavor.

Set Up Breading Station

Prepare three separate shallow bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and Panko breadcrumbs. First, dip each piece of chicken in the flour, then in the eggs, and finally coat them thoroughly with Panko.

Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken bites, frying in batches. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Glaze with Honey

In a separate small saucepan, combine honey and soy sauce. Heat over low until well mixed. Once the chicken bites are cooked, transfer them to a bowl and drizzle the honey glaze over, tossing gently to coat.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy honey chicken bites warm, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

These chicken bites are best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, so dig in while they're warm!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try adding some crushed cornflakes to the Panko breadcrumbs. You can also adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less honey based on your preference.

Flavor Enhancements

To customize the flavor of your Crispy Honey Chicken Bites, consider adding additional spices to the seasoning mix. A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a delightful warmth to the bites. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to incorporate a splash of apple cider vinegar into the honey sauce. This acidity balances the sweetness, providing a more complex flavor. Adjust honey quantities based on your preference for sweetness versus tanginess.

For a fusion twist, try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the honey glaze right before serving. This will add a fresh, aromatic note that complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Variations and Customization

If you're looking for a different protein option, try substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu. Both can be prepared using the same breading and frying techniques. Just adjust cooking times accordingly: shrimp takes about 2-3 minutes per side, while tofu should be pressed for excess moisture before it's breaded to achieve optimal crispiness.

Vegetarians can also enjoy these bites by using cauliflower florets as a substitute. Coat and fry them in the same way and drizzle with the honey glaze for a delightful, plant-based alternative.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before coating.

→ What can I serve these chicken bites with?

These bites pair well with spicy dipping sauces, rice, or even a fresh salad.

→ Can I bake these chicken bites instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated chicken bites on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a crispy texture.