Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey Sesame Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze. The sauce, made with honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic, creates a luscious coating that clings to the crunchy exterior of the fried chicken, delivering an irresistible bite every time.

This dish is a fantastic homemade alternative to takeout, offering all the bold flavors you crave with fresh, simple ingredients. Whether served over fluffy white rice or alongside a light vegetable stir-fry, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite. Quick to make and even quicker to disappear from the plate, it’s a must-try for lovers of Asian-inspired cuisine.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg with water.
3. Coat the chicken pieces in the dry mixture, dip into the egg wash, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
5. In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Simmer over low heat.
6. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and cook until it thickens.
7. Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until well coated.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Origins and History of Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey Sesame Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its crispy texture and sticky, sweet-savory glaze. While it is often associated with American Chinese restaurants, its flavors are inspired by traditional Chinese cooking techniques. The use of honey in savory dishes dates back to ancient China, where it was combined with soy sauce and sesame seeds to enhance the natural umami flavors of meats. This dish is often compared to General Tso’s Chicken and Orange Chicken, but it stands out due to its signature honey-based glaze and nutty sesame seeds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Crispy Perfection – The cornstarch and panko breadcrumb coating create a golden, crunchy texture that holds up to the sticky sauce.
✔️ Homemade Takeout – Skip the restaurant and make a healthier, fresher version at home!
✔️ Balanced Flavors – The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the savory soy sauce and toasted sesame seeds.
✔️ Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
✔️ Customizable – You can easily adjust the sauce’s sweetness or spiciness to suit your taste.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

1. For Extra Crispiness – Double-fry the chicken! Fry it once at a lower temperature (325°F / 160°C) to cook it through, then increase the heat (375°F / 190°C) for a final crispy finish.
2. Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger – Freshly grated garlic and ginger add a punch of flavor that enhances the sauce.
3. Prevent Sogginess – Toss the fried chicken with the sauce just before serving to keep the coating crispy.
4. Adjust the Sauce Thickness – If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes, or add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.
5. Air-Fryer Option – For a healthier version, cook the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – Thighs provide juicier results, while breast meat stays leaner.
• Cornstarch & flour – Helps create the crispy exterior by forming a light batter.
• Egg & panko breadcrumbs – Panko gives an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.

Honey Sesame Sauce:

• Honey: The star ingredient, adding natural sweetness and a sticky glaze.
• Soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavor and adds depth.
• Sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma that complements the sesame seeds.
• Garlic & ginger: Boosts the savory and aromatic flavors.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a slight tanginess to balance the sweetness.
• Cornstarch slurry: Thickens the sauce to help it coat the chicken evenly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

How to Make the Chicken Extra Crispy:

1. Double-coating technique: Dredge the chicken twice in cornstarch and panko for an extra crunch.
2. Use cold batter ingredients: Keeping the egg wash and cornstarch mixture cold helps create a crispier texture.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in batches prevents the temperature from dropping, ensuring an even golden-brown crust.
4. Opt for high-smoke-point oil: Use vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil for deep frying.

How to Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency:

• Simmer the sauce on low heat until it thickens slightly.
• If the sauce is too thin, add a little more cornstarch slurry.
• If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or chicken broth.

Variations and Substitutions

Healthier Versions:

• Air-Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken: Coat the chicken lightly in cooking spray and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
• Baked Honey Sesame Chicken: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Gluten-Free Adaptations:

• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Swap rice flour for all-purpose flour.
• Choose gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the coating.

Spicy Version:

• Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Vegetarian Alternative:

• Replace chicken with crispy tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower for a plant-based twist.

Serving Suggestions

🍚 Best Side Dishes:

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice – Classic pairing that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• Garlic stir-fried vegetables – Broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas complement the dish well.
• Lo mein or egg noodles – Toss the chicken with noodles for a heartier meal.
• Asian cucumber salad – Adds a refreshing crunch to balance the sweetness of the dish.

🥢 Best Drinks to Pair:

• Green tea or jasmine tea – Helps cleanse the palate.
• Lemon-infused sparkling water – Adds a refreshing citrus contrast.
• Chilled white wine (Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc) – Pairs beautifully with the honey glaze.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the fried chicken separately from the sauce for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness:

1. Oven Method (Best for maintaining crispiness):

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 8-10 minutes.
   • Heat the sauce separately on the stovetop and toss before serving.

2. Air Fryer Method (Quick & Crispy):

   • Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   • Reheat for 5-7 minutes.

3. Stovetop Method (Quick but can soften the crust):

   • Reheat the chicken in a dry pan over medium heat for 5 minutes.
   • Add the sauce at the last minute and toss quickly.

Avoid microwaving, as it will make the chicken soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can fry the chicken and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat and toss it in freshly warmed sauce.

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: While boneless chicken works best for quick frying, you can use bone-in drumsticks or thighs—just increase the cooking time.

Q: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
A: Yes! Maple syrup can be substituted for honey, though it will have a slightly different flavor profile.

Conclusion:

Honey Sesame Chicken is the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and savory, making it a favorite for family dinners and quick homemade takeout. The sticky honey glaze and nutty sesame seeds add depth to each bite, while the crispy chicken keeps it satisfyingly crunchy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to impress.