Crispy pan-fried chicken tossed in a sticky honey garlic sauce made with just a few pantry staples. This easy, lazy recipe comes together fast for a takeout-style dinner you can whip up any night.
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup cornstarch
⅓ cup oil (for frying)
4 garlic cloves, minced
⅓ cup honey
¼ cup soy sauce
Optional: red pepper flakes, green onions, sesame seeds
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
Toss chicken in cornstarch until fully coated.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through.
Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
Discard most oil, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add honey and soy sauce, stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Return chicken to pan, toss to coat. Cook 1 more minute.
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cornstarch gives the crispiest texture.
Air fryer or oven-baked methods work too.
Adjust honey or add spice to suit taste.
Pairs well with rice, noodles, or veggies.