Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken Recipe

Craving something crispy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible? This Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken delivers it all in one skillet—no takeout needed. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated, fried until golden, then tossed in a sticky, garlic-infused sauce with hints of soy, sesame, and a hint of heat.

Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or looking for a new weeknight staple, this dish is here to steal the spotlight—and your taste buds. With just a few pantry staples and under 40 minutes, you’ll have a homemade masterpiece with restaurant-quality crunch.

Why Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken?

What makes this recipe shine is the combination of crispy texture and punchy, umami-rich flavor. You don’t need a deep fryer or special ingredients—just boneless chicken thighs, soy sauce, garlic, and a few pantry regulars. The Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken name says it all: crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and with an unmistakable Asian flair.

It also adapts easily. Want it spicier? Add more Sriracha. Do you prefer it sweet and sticky? A drizzle of honey does the trick. Whether you serve it over jasmine rice or pair it with stir-fried noodles, this dish satisfies on every level.

Looking for more easy chicken dishes like this one? Be sure to explore our Arroz Con Pollo in Slow Cooker for ideas just as satisfying and straightforward.

The Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken, you don’t need a long shopping list or a speciality store. These simple pantry staples come together to create a big flavour with minimal effort. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredient	Purpose & Tips
500g boneless chicken thighs	Juicy and flavorful, thighs are best for crisp frying.
2 tbsp cornstarch	Key for that golden, ultra-crispy crust.
1 tbsp dark soy sauce	Deep umami and color for the marinade.
1.5 tbsp minced garlic	The star—don’t hold back!
1 tsp minced ginger	Adds warmth and depth.
1 red bell pepper	Fresh crunch and color.
1/3 cup green onion	Finishing touch for flavor and presentation.
1/3 cup oil	For shallow frying.

Garlic does more than bring flavour—it offers heart-protective, immune-boosting benefits, too. According to the NCCIH, garlic contains sulfur compounds that may help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.

You’ll also need a sauce made from light soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, Sriracha, and water. These simple flavours fuse into a savoury glaze that brings everything together.

Read also: Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

Looking for more easy chicken dishes like this one? Be sure to explore our chicken recipe archive for ideas just as satisfying and straightforward.

How to Make Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken

You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together. Here’s how to get that restaurant-quality crunch at home.

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with dark soy sauce, half the minced garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavours to soak in while you prepare the sauce.

2. Mix the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, the remaining garlic, Sriracha, and a small amount of water. Set aside.

3. Fry the Chicken:

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in batches, frying each side for 3–5 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Frying doesn’t have to be unhealthy if you use heart-smart oils. The American Heart Association recommends oils like canola or avocado, which have healthy fats and high smoke points perfect for crispy results

4. Sauté the Veggies:

Pour off excess oil, leaving just one tablespoon. Stir-fry sliced red bell pepper until slightly softened, about 2 minutes.

5. Toss It All Together:

Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in your sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Add chopped green onions, give one last toss, and serve immediately for the ultimate crispiness.

For extra bold flavor combinations, browse our Asian recipe collection—they pair perfectly with this dish!

Make It Crispier, Make It Yours

There’s a reason this Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly golden every time: it’s all in the method. These kitchen-tested tips will help you replicate the restaurant-style crunch and customize the dish to your taste.

The Trick to Getting Crispy Chicken

Want ultra-crispy texture that holds even after saucing? Use cornstarch instead of flour, and make sure your oil is hot before frying. The right temperature—around 350°F—is essential. Too cool, and your chicken will soak up oil; too hot, and it burns before it cooks through. Try dropping a piece in: if it sizzles instantly, you’re ready.

For even crispier results, let the coated chicken pieces rest for a few minutes before frying. This creates a firmer starch layer that crisps beautifully.

Easy Variations for Every Kitchen

You can adjust this dish for different tastes and dietary needs without sacrificing flavour:

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute tamari for soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu cubes. Press, coat in cornstarch, and pan-fry the same way.
• Honey Garlic Twist: Add one tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sticky-sweet finish—perfect for fans of honey garlic chicken.
• Spice Level Control: Reduce the Sriracha or skip it entirely if cooking for kids.

Want more flavour-packed dinner ideas like this? Try our crowd-pleasing garlic-based meals or bold flavour favourites in our Asian-inspired dinner archive.

What to Serve With Crispy Garlic Chicken

This Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken deserves company. Here’s how to complete the meal for a restaurant-worthy dinner at home:

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice: Ideal for soaking up every drop of that sticky garlic sauce.
• Vegetable Fried Rice or Stir-Fried Noodles: Adds bulk and variety to your plate.
• Steamed Bok Choy or Broccoli: The bright greens contrast with the richness of the chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this balances the heat and crunch perfectly.
• Spring Rolls or Potstickers: For a more indulgent, complete meal.

If you’re looking for side dishes that perfectly complement this chicken, explore our side recipes section, where you’ll find everything from veggie stir-fry to cooling slaws.

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FAQs About Asian-Style Crispy Garlic Chicken

1- What is the trick to getting crispy chicken?

Use cornstarch, not flour, and make sure the oil is hot before frying. Fry in small batches for a golden, crispy result.

2- How to make crunchy garlic chicken?

Marinate the chicken, coat in starch, and fry until crisp. Add freshly sautéed garlic for extra crunch and bold flavor.

3- How do the Chinese get their chicken so crispy?

They often use double frying and light starch coatings, such as potato or cornstarch, which high heat seals in the crunch.

4. How to Make Asian Honey Garlic Chicken?

Just add 1–2 tablespoons of honey to the sauce and reduce the Sriracha for a sweet, sticky variation.