Honey Sesame Chicken

Sharing is caring!

There’s something irresistibly comforting about Honey Sesame Chicken. With its perfectly crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sweet, and savory sauce, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy meal for friends and family, this recipe delivers a satisfying balance of textures and tastes that everyone will love. The combination of honey’s natural sweetness and the nutty depth of toasted sesame seeds creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both familiar and exciting.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Honey Sesame Chicken stands out because it’s a perfect harmony of crunchy and saucy, sweet and savory, tender and crisp. Unlike takeout versions that can sometimes be greasy or overly sweet, this homemade recipe allows you to control the ingredients, resulting in a lighter, fresher dish. It’s easy to prepare and uses simple pantry staples, making it accessible even on busy days. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over steamed rice, tossed with noodles, or enjoyed alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal. The golden honey glaze combined with sesame seeds not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any dinner plate.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 3 green onions, sliced thinly (for garnish)
• For the Sauce:
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (use a gluten-free tamari if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

How To Make Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Place the cornstarch in another shallow dish. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg, then coat thoroughly with cornstarch. This double coating creates that signature crispy crust once fried.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, toasted sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce starts bubbling, stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until glossy and thickened.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken pieces directly into the saucepan with the honey sesame sauce. Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. The sauce should cling beautifully to the crispy chicken, creating a luscious glaze.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the saucy chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy finish. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or alongside your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• Use chicken thighs for juicier results: Chicken thighs stay tender and moist better than breasts, especially when fried.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch coating: It’s key to achieving that crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sticky sauce.
• Control your sauce sweetness: Adjust the honey amount to suit your taste—less for a milder sweetness, more for a stickier glaze.
• Keep the oil temperature steady: Too hot and the chicken burns; too cool and it absorbs excess oil and becomes soggy.
• Make the sauce ahead: The sauce can be made in advance and reheated gently when ready to use, saving time on busy days.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavor far beyond pre-minced or powdered versions.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Sesame Chicken with Vegetables: Toss in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious boost.
• Oven-Baked Version: For a lighter twist, bake the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
• Honey Sesame Tofu: Replace chicken with firm tofu cubes for a vegetarian option. Press tofu well before coating and frying.
• Nut-Free Modifications: Omit the toasted sesame seeds or replace them with toasted sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Cover and warm until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain the glossy sauce coating. Avoid microwaving directly without moisture, as this can make the chicken rubbery. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out more easily than thighs. Cutting the breast into smaller, uniform pieces helps it cook evenly.

Is it necessary to fry the chicken, or can I bake it?

Frying gives the chicken its classic crispy texture, but baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Coat the chicken as usual, then bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and cooked through.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce before tossing with freshly cooked chicken to maintain the best texture.

What can I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also add a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a sticky, flavorful sauce bursting with honey, soy, and sesame goodness. It’s an ideal recipe for those craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal that’s simple enough for any night of the week. With easy-to-follow steps, customizable options, and tips to perfect your cooking technique, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home kitchen. The best part? It’s deliciously satisfying and beautifully presented, making every bite a little celebration. So grab your ingredients, get frying, and enjoy a plate of homemade Honey Sesame Chicken that’s sure to impress!

Sharing is caring!