Picture this: juicy chicken bites coated in a sweet, sticky garlic sauce that's got the right amount of kick. This is the reality of Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites, an easy to make yet delicious dish that packs a punch. Whether you're entertaining guests or seeking a quick and exciting meal, these chicken bites are sure to impress.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be common in all homes. Hoisin sauce, a staple in Chinese cuisine, is a fragrant, sweet and salty sauce that adds a unique depth of flavor. You can typically find it in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Sriracha is a type of hot sauce or chili sauce made from a paste of chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. It adds a spicy kick to the dish. If you don't have these on hand, make a note to pick them up from the supermarket.
Ingredients for Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
Chicken breasts: This is the main protein for our dish. Preferably use boneless and skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Egg: Used as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
Panko breadcrumbs: They have a light, flaky texture which helps make the chicken crispy.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.
Honey: Balances out the saltiness with its sweetness and helps in creating a sticky glaze.
Garlic cloves: Essential for any garlic chicken bites. It's the star flavor.
Hoisin sauce: Gives a sweet, salty and tangy flavor.
Sriracha sauce: Adds a spicy kick to the chicken bites.
Ginger: Adds a spicy, aromatic note.
Spring onion: Used for garnish and adds a fresh, crisp taste.
Sesame seeds: Also used for garnish and adds a slight nutty flavor.
One reader, Glenn Cavanaugh says:
The sticky garlic chicken bites recipe was a game-changer! The chicken was perfectly crispy and the sauce was a flavor explosion. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce was divine. It's now a family favorite and a go-to for gatherings. Highly recommend trying it out!
Key Techniques for Perfecting Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe
How to bread the chicken: Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
How to make the sticky garlic sauce: Mix together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, hoisin sauce, sriracha, and grated ginger in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and toss the chicken bites in the sauce until thoroughly coated.
How to serve the chicken bites: Serve the sticky garlic chicken bites immediately with chopped spring onion and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
How To Make Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
These deliciously juicy baked garlic chicken bites are coated with a tasty sauce made of honey, hoisin, and sriracha for that perfect sweet-spicy dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2chicken breasts
- 1egg,beaten
- 2cupsPpanko breadcrumbs
- salt and pepper
- 4tbspsoy sauce
- 4tbsphoney
- 4garlic cloves,crushed
- 2tbsphoisin sauce
- 1tbspsriracha sauce
- 1tbspginger,grated
- spring onion,to garnish
- sesame seeds,to garnish
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cut the chicken breasts into small bite-sized pieces.
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Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded chicken onto a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
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Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
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Mix together soy sauce, honey, garlic, hoisin sauce, sriracha, and grated ginger in a saucepan and bring to boil. Remove from heat.
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Toss the chicken bites in the sauce until thoroughly coated.
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Serve immediately with chopped spring onion and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 950.84kcal
- Fat: 24.68g
- Saturated Fat: 6.74g
- Trans Fat: 0.19g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.43g
- Carbohydrates: 124.42g
- Fiber: 6.14g
- Sugar: 45.87g
- Protein: 57.22g
- Cholesterol: 191.82mg
- Sodium: 2950.20mg
- Calcium: 263.71mg
- Potassium: 856.79mg
- Iron: 7.92mg
- Vitamin A: 76.49µg
- Vitamin C: 2.30mg
Expert Technique Tip for Mastering Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
To ensure your chicken bites are extra crispy, make sure to press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken pieces before baking. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken, resulting in a more substantial and satisfying crunch. Additionally, when tossing the chicken in the sauce, do so gently to prevent the crispy coating from falling off.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Double batch: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra chicken bites for a quick and easy meal later.
One-pan cooking: Consider using an air fryer for a quicker and more hands-off cooking process.
Organized workspace: Set up your ingredients and tools in a well-organized manner to streamline the cooking process.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe
Chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless turkey thighs: Turkey thighs are a flavorful and juicy alternative to chicken breasts, and they work well in this recipe.
Egg - Substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and adds moisture to the dish, similar to eggs.
Panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes can provide a similar crispy texture and add a slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar rich, savory flavor.
Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a sweet and slightly smoky flavor, similar to honey.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a concentrated garlic flavor and is convenient to use in place of fresh garlic.
Hoisin sauce - Substitute with barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce can add a sweet and tangy flavor, similar to hoisin sauce.
Sriracha sauce - Substitute with chili paste: Chili paste can provide a spicy kick and add depth of flavor to the dish.
Ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger and provides a warm, aromatic flavor.
Spring onion - Substitute with chives: Chives can add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
Sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, similar to sesame seeds.
How to Beautifully Present Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sticky garlic chicken bites, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate height and layers: Arrange the chicken bites on the plate with varying heights to create a visually dynamic presentation. Consider using bamboo skewers to stack the chicken bites, adding a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by incorporating negative space on the plate. This will allow the chicken bites to stand out and be the focal point of the dish. Use white plates to create a clean and modern look.
Focus on precision and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the arrangement is precise and symmetrical, creating a visually stunning presentation that reflects attention to detail.
Incorporate a dipping sauce: Present the sticky garlic chicken bites with a small ramekin of the honey garlic dipping sauce on the side. This adds an element of interactivity and allows the guests to customize their flavor experience.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped spring onion over the chicken bites to add texture and a burst of flavor. The garnishes should be delicately placed to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes, providing even heat distribution for cooking.
- Baking sheet: A flat, metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking small quantities of food.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate foods into fine pieces, such as ginger or cheese.
- Knife: A sharp utensil used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A sturdy board used for cutting and preparing ingredients, protecting the countertop from damage.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or sauces.
- Whisk: A utensil with a handle and loops used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
- Basting brush: A brush used for applying sauces or marinades to food during cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
- Allow the chicken bites to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the chicken bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the sticky garlic chicken bites:
- Place the cooled chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Freeze the chicken bites until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen chicken bites to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen chicken bites can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen chicken bites, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken bites on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. There is no need to thaw them before reheating.
- Note: The texture of the chicken bites may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but they will still be delicious and flavorful.
How To Reheat Leftover Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover sticky garlic chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the panko breadcrumbs while ensuring the chicken is heated evenly.
For a quicker option, use your microwave. Place the chicken bites on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery. To help maintain the crispiness, place a damp paper towel over the plate while microwaving.
If you have an air fryer, this is an excellent way to reheat your sticky garlic chicken bites. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken bites in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is heated through and crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the chicken bites and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and crispy. This method works well if you want to refresh the flavors of the sauce and add an extra touch of crispiness to the exterior.
If you want to reheat the sticky garlic chicken bites while keeping them moist, try steaming them. Place the chicken bites in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help retain the moisture in the chicken while gently reheating it.
Interesting Trivia About Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
The sticky garlic chicken bites recipe is a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors, creating a mouthwatering dish that is sure to please any crowd. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, and it can be served as an appetizer or a main course. The combination of soy sauce, honey, garlic, hoisin sauce, sriracha, and ginger creates a rich and flavorful glaze that perfectly coats the crispy chicken bites. This recipe is a great way to add some excitement to your dinner routine and is a perfect example of the versatility of chicken in cooking.
Is Making Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites at Home Cost-Effective?
This sticky garlic chicken bites recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken, soy sauce, and honey, are affordable and readily available. The addition of garlic, ginger, and spring onion enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, delicious taste, and ease of preparation.
Are Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites Healthy or Unhealthy?
The sticky garlic chicken bites recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The chicken is breaded and fried, which adds extra calories and unhealthy fats to the dish
- The sauce contains a significant amount of sugar from the honey and hoisin sauce, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess
- The recipe is high in sodium due to the soy sauce, which can be problematic for those with high blood pressure or other sodium-related health concerns
However, there are some positive aspects to the recipe as well:
- Chicken is a lean protein source, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body
- Garlic and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system
- The dish is relatively easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as an occasional treat
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Instead of frying the chicken, try baking it in the oven or grilling it to reduce the amount of oil used
- Reduce the amount of honey and hoisin sauce in the recipe to lower the sugar content, or substitute with a sugar-free alternative
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
- Serve the chicken bites with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to add extra nutrients and fiber to the meal
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs to increase the fiber content of the dish
Editor's Opinion on the Deliciousness of Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites
This sticky garlic chicken bites recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy, tender chicken bites coated in a sweet and savory glaze. The panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch, while the garlic, honey, and soy sauce create a rich and flavorful sauce. The addition of hoisin and sriracha adds depth and a hint of heat, complemented by the freshness of spring onions and the nuttiness of sesame seeds. It's a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
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Why trust this Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its succulent chicken breasts, crispy panko breadcrumbs, and a delectable sticky sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and garlic. The combination of hoisin sauce, sriracha sauce, and ginger adds a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The finishing touch of spring onion and sesame seeds adds a burst of freshness and texture. Trust in the quality and harmony of these ingredients to create an unforgettable chicken dish.
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