Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

There is something incredibly comforting about the sound of chicken sizzling as it turns golden and crisp, and this recipe takes that familiar moment and makes it unforgettable. These crispy honey butter garlic chicken strips are everything you want after a long day, crunchy on the outside, juicy inside, and coated in a sticky, buttery glaze that smells so good it pulls everyone into the kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to love this from the very first bite.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came together on one of those evenings where I wanted comfort food but still craved something special. I started with classic crispy chicken strips, then added a simple honey butter garlic sauce that felt almost nostalgic, like something you would dip bread into at the table. One taste and I knew this one was a total game-changer, the kind of recipe you make once and then keep coming back to.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Chicken strips have long been a favorite in home kitchens and diners alike, loved for their quick cooking time and universal appeal. The sweet and savory pairing of honey and garlic is inspired by flavors found in many global cuisines, where sweetness balances richness. Bringing them together with butter creates a sauce that clings beautifully and turns a simple dish into something memorable.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

Once you see how easy and satisfying this recipe is, it quickly becomes a staple. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Versatile: These chicken strips work as a main dish, party appetizer, or even tucked into wraps or bowls for a casual meal.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients and affordable chicken make this recipe easy on the wallet.

Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, this dish comes together fast, perfect for busy nights.

Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness, garlic level, or even the coating spices to match your mood.

Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults both go crazy for the crispy texture and sweet buttery glaze.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chicken ahead and cook it fresh when needed.

Great for Leftovers: Reheated or repurposed, these strips stay delicious the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few small tricks can make a big difference here. Keep your oil hot but not smoking so the coating crisps evenly. Let the cooked chicken rest briefly before saucing so it stays crunchy. And always toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving for the best texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Large Skillet or Deep Pan: Provides enough space for even frying without crowding.

Mixing Bowls: Helpful for coating the chicken and mixing the sauce.

Tongs: Makes turning and tossing the chicken easy and mess-free.

Paper Towels: Essential for draining excess oil and keeping the strips crisp.

Ingredients in Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

This recipe shines because each ingredient plays a clear role, working together in perfect harmony.

1. Chicken Tenders: 500 g, these cook quickly and stay juicy inside the crispy coating.
2. All-Purpose Flour: 120 g, creates the base layer for a crunchy exterior.
3. Cornstarch: 60 g, adds extra crispiness to the coating.
4. Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhances all the flavors.
5. Black Pepper: 0.5 teaspoon, adds gentle warmth.
6. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, builds flavor in the coating.
7. Eggs: 2 large, help the coating adhere to the chicken.
8. Butter: 60 g, forms the rich base of the sauce.
9. Honey: 80 ml, provides sweetness and sticky shine.
10. Fresh Garlic: 3 cloves, finely minced, brings bold aroma and flavor.
11. Vegetable Oil: for frying, ensures even browning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need flexibility, and this recipe allows it.

All-Purpose Flour: You can use gluten free flour blend if needed.
Honey: Maple syrup works as a slightly less sweet alternative.
Butter: Plant based butter can be used for a dairy free version.

Ingredient Spotlight

Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory garlic and butter, creating that irresistible glaze.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma that powdered versions simply cannot match.

Instructions for Making Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

Now let’s dive into the fun part and bring everything together step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a deep skillet with vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Line a plate with paper towels for draining the cooked chicken.
4. Assemble the Dish: Dip each chicken tender into egg, then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture.
5. Cook to Perfection: Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to the prepared plate.
6. Finishing Touches: In a pan, melt butter, add garlic, cook briefly until fragrant, then stir in honey. Toss the chicken gently in the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic here is contrast. The coating stays crisp while the inside remains tender and juicy. The honey butter garlic sauce melts into every crevice, giving you sweetness first, then rich butter, and finally that savory garlic finish that lingers.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few extra tips can elevate the results even more.

• Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
• Use fresh garlic for the most aroma and flavor.
• Toss the chicken lightly so the coating stays crisp.

What to Avoid

Even simple recipes have a few pitfalls.

• Avoid overcrowding the pan, which causes soggy coating.
• Do not overcook the garlic or it can turn bitter.
• Skip saucing too early, which softens the crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 420
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can coat the chicken a few hours ahead and keep it chilled until frying. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. Freezing is possible before frying for best texture.

How to Serve Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

Serve these strips with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or tucked into soft wraps with crunchy lettuce. They also shine next to rice or mashed potatoes that soak up the extra sauce.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover chicken can be sliced and added to grain bowls, stuffed into sandwiches, or chopped over salads for a sweet and savory twist.

Additional Tips

If you love heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce. For extra crunch, double coat the chicken by dipping it twice before frying.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange the strips on a platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and sprinkle with finely chopped herbs for color. Presentation makes this simple dish feel special.

Variations to Try

Try adding grated ginger to the sauce for warmth. Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness. Add smoked paprika to the coating for a subtle smoky note.

FAQ’s

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 200 C until golden, flipping halfway for even crisping.

2. Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, sliced thighs work well and stay extra juicy.

3. How do I keep them crispy?

Sauce them just before serving and avoid covering tightly while hot.

4. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely, the sweet sauce is a hit with kids.

5. Can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the honey slightly and add more garlic.

6. What oil works best for frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points work best.

7. Can I air fry them?

Yes, cook at 190 C, turning once for even browning.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container.

9. Can I prepare the sauce ahead?

Yes, reheat gently before tossing with chicken.

10. What sides pair well?

Fresh salads, roasted veggies, or simple rice are great choices.

Conclusion

These crispy honey butter garlic chicken strips bring comfort, flavor, and crunch together in the best possible way. They are easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Give them a try, and let me tell you, once you do, they will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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