What makes the perfect weeknight dinner so irresistible? For me, it’s all about quick and easy homemade recipes like these fried honey bbq chicken bites, made with tender chicken and a sweet honey sauce. Save this idea for a family favorite meal that’s sure to please everyone, try it soon and enjoy

two plates filled with fried honey bbq chicken bites

Introduction

Fried honey BBQ chicken bites are a mouthwatering treat that combines the sweetness of honey, the tanginess of BBQ sauce, and the crunch of fried chicken. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make snack or appetizer. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a truly impressive and delicious meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of fried honey BBQ chicken bites and explore the secrets behind this addictive dish.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, while the use of common ingredients like chicken, flour, and spices makes it easy to whip up a batch.
• Ease of preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a plate of crispy, golden-brown chicken bites ready to devour.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family with its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and addictive flavor.

Key Ingredients

The key to making great fried honey BBQ chicken bites lies in the quality of your ingredients. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, eggs, honey, BBQ sauce, and vegetable oil for frying. For an extra crispy coating, you can also add some panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to the flour mixture. If you want to get creative, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian or vegan version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix with a fork. Finally, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F.
2. Step 2: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, coating it evenly, then into the egg mixture, making sure to fully submerge it, and finally into the flour mixture again, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks. Place the coated chicken on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the coating.
3. Step 3: Once the oil is hot, carefully place a few pieces of the coated chicken into the skillet or deep fryer. Do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches a golden brown color and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
4. Step 4: While the chicken is frying, mix together the honey and BBQ sauce in a small bowl. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Then, toss the fried chicken bites in the honey BBQ sauce until they’re fully coated. Serve hot and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy coating, make sure the oil is at the right temperature and don’t overcrowd the skillet. You can also try chilling the coated chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying to help the coating set.
• To avoid the chicken from sticking together, make sure to not overcrowd the skillet and to not stir the chicken too much while it’s frying.
• If you want to bake the chicken instead of frying, you can do so in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when frying chicken. The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it’s fully cooked on the inside. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and be greasy. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for chicken breasts.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor is what makes fried honey BBQ chicken bites so addictive. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure the oil is at the right temperature and the coating is evenly applied. You can also try adding some crunchy elements like panko breadcrumbs or chopped nuts to the flour mixture for extra texture. Finally, don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and lose its crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the honey BBQ sauce stick to the chicken better, you can try adding a little bit of cornstarch or flour to the sauce before tossing the chicken in it.
• For a spicy kick, you can add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture or the honey BBQ sauce.
• To make cleanup easier, line the skillet or deep fryer with parchment paper or aluminum foil before frying the chicken.

Storage Tips

• To store leftover fried honey BBQ chicken bites, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave until crispy and hot.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• When storing or reheating, make sure to keep the chicken bites away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors easily.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to give fried honey BBQ chicken bites as a gift, you can package them in a variety of creative ways. Try placing them in a decorative tin or jar, or wrapping them in parchment paper or aluminum foil and tying with a ribbon. You can also include a side of honey BBQ sauce or a few extra ingredients, like chopped scallions or toasted sesame seeds, to make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the flour mixture for a smoky or savory flavor.
• Creative toppings: Top the fried chicken bites with some diced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version, or try using different types of flour, like whole wheat or gluten-free, for a healthier or allergy-friendly option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the chicken is too greasy, try adjusting the oil temperature or using a different type of oil. If the chicken is too dry, try marinating it in some buttermilk or yogurt before frying.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have honey, you can try using maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute. If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you can try using a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the chicken is overcooked, it will be dry and tough. If it’s undercooked, it will be pink and juicy. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for chicken breasts.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze fried honey BBQ chicken bites for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the type of flour used, fried honey BBQ chicken bites can be gluten-free. Try using gluten-free flour or substituting with cornstarch or rice flour.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double or triple the recipe as needed. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

Conclusion

Fried honey BBQ chicken bites are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and addictive flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a great way to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your loved ones!