Honey Sesame Chicken :A Deliciously Easy Comfort Dish

Few dishes balance sweet and savory flavors as effortlessly as Honey Sesame Chicken. This dish, often found in Chinese-American restaurants, is a favorite among food lovers for its crispy chicken bites coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce with the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. 

While it’s tempting to order takeout, making this dish at home is surprisingly simple and allows for customization to suit your taste. This recipe will guide you through creating the perfect Honey Sesame Chicken, offering tips and answering frequently asked questions along the way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Better than takeout – Fresh ingredients and no artificial additives.

2. Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

3. Customizable – Adjust sweetness, spice, and crispiness to your liking.

4. Crowd-pleaser – A perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 cup cornstarch

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Coat each piece in cornstarch, then dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per batch.

3. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

2. Stir well and bring to a simmer for about 3 minutes.

3. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.

2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.

3. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for the Best Honey Sesame Chicken

• Crispier Chicken: Double-fry the chicken for an extra-crispy texture.

• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water. If it’s too thin, simmer a little longer.

• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference.

• Healthier Version: Bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying.

FAQs About Honey Sesame Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative to chicken breasts.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked chicken before serving.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to maintain crispiness.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder.

5. What can I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables pair perfectly with this dish.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that brings the taste of takeout right into your kitchen. With its crispy chicken, sticky-sweet sauce, and nutty sesame topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of home!