This Tangy Honey-Lime Tso Chicken is a delightful twist on a takeout favorite. Combining a sweet honey glaze with a zesty lime kick, it's a dish that's sure to impress and easy to make at home.
Chicken thighs are tender and juicy, making them perfect for quick frying. The cornstarch and flour create a crispy coating when fried. Honey adds natural sweetness, while lime juice gives that tangy punch. Soy sauce provides a salty umami flavor that balances the sweetness. Garlic and ginger introduce aromatic depth, with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma, and a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds finishes the dish beautifully.
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of stir-fried vegetables. If you're in the mood for noodles, a simple lo mein works wonders as well.
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly. In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This will give you that delightful crispiness when fried.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Fry them until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don't overcook. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant—this step really boosts the flavor base. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, lime juice, red pepper flakes, and water. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings nicely to the chicken. Finally, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
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