Crispy Chicken Bites with Honey Pepper Sauce – Sweet, Spicy, and Totally Addictive!
Looking for a quick and flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even game day? These Crispy Chicken Bites with Honey Pepper Sauce are golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a glossy sweet-and-spicy glaze that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-style dish on the table—crispy, sticky, and bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, great for busy nights.
- Crispy outside, juicy inside: Thanks to the cornstarch or flour coating.
- Flavor-packed sauce: Sweet honey, bold soy sauce, fresh garlic, and a peppery kick.
- Versatile: Serve with rice, noodles, salad, or as a fun appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt, black pepper, and paprika, to taste
- ½ cup flour or cornstarch (cornstarch gives a lighter, crispier texture)
- 2 tbsp oil (for pan-frying; use vegetable or canola oil)
For the Honey Pepper Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium or regular)
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, but adds a great kick!)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Coat the Chicken
- Place the cubed chicken in a bowl.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for a warm, smoky undertone.
- Toss the seasoned chicken in the flour or cornstarch until each piece is well coated. This coating helps create that irresistible crispy crust.
Step 2: Pan-Fry Until Golden
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken cubes in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes total, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked inside.
- Remove the chicken and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Make the Honey Pepper Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, black pepper, hot sauce (if using), and minced garlic.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously.
- Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened and fragrant.
- Remove from heat—don’t overcook or the honey can burn.
Step 4: Toss to Coat
- Place the crispy chicken bites in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the warm honey pepper sauce over the chicken and toss until evenly coated. The sauce will cling to the crispy surface beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and color.
- These bites pair perfectly with steamed rice, garlic noodles, or even inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use cornstarch for maximum crispiness. Flour works too, but cornstarch makes a lighter, crunchier coating.
- Adjust heat level: Like it spicier? Add more hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.
- Double the sauce if serving with rice—you’ll want extra to drizzle!
FAQs
Can I air fry the chicken?
Yes! Lightly spray coated chicken and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work great here.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, just skip the hot sauce or reduce the black pepper for a milder flavor.
Nutrition & Serving Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approx. 320 kcal per serving
Conclusion
These Crispy Chicken Bites with Honey Pepper Sauce are a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack, they’ll disappear fast! Ready in minutes, packed with flavor, and super customizable—this recipe is a must-try for chicken lovers.
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