Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1/2 cup flour + cornstarch (for coating); 1 egg; Oil for frying; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic (minced); 1 tsp chili flakes; Sliced green onions for garnish

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Spicy Honey Garlic Popcorn Chicken is a crispy, bite-sized dish coated in a sticky-sweet honey garlic sauce with a spicy kick. It’s the perfect appetizer or snack for those who crave bold, irresistible flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tender, crunchy chicken bites are packed with flavor and coated in a sticky glaze that hits sweet, savory, and spicy notes all at once. They are easy to prepare and disappear quickly at any party or family gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Buttermilk (for marinating)
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Oil (for frying)
Honey
Soy sauce
Fresh garlic (minced)
Red pepper flakes or sriracha
Green onions (for garnish)

Directions

Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer and fry chicken until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until well coated.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Oven-Baked Version: Bake breaded chicken at 400°F for 20 minutes, then toss in sauce.
No Spice: Omit red pepper flakes for a sweeter version.
Extra Crunchy: Double-dip the chicken in flour for extra crispiness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze plain fried chicken pieces; toss in sauce after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, thighs are juicier and work just as well.

Is the sauce very spicy?

It has a mild to medium kick. Adjust the chili to your liking.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, store it in the fridge for up to 1 week and reheat before using.

What can I serve this with?

Serve with rice, noodles, or as a party finger food.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Toss in sauce just before serving and avoid covering the chicken.

Can I air fry the chicken?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I use store-bought popcorn chicken?

Yes, cook as directed and coat with the homemade sauce.

What’s a good dipping sauce?

Ranch, blue cheese, or more honey garlic sauce work well.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Omit or reduce the spice for a kid-friendly version.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, but it will change the flavor slightly.

Conclusion

Spicy Honey Garlic Popcorn Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy texture and bold flavor. Whether served as a party appetizer or a quick dinner, it’s a dish that everyone will want more of.