Honey Sesame Chicken

Why You’ll Love Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is a homemade takeout favorite that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. It uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers that perfect sticky, crispy texture without needing a deep fryer. It’s a crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids, and you can have it on the table faster than ordering delivery. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick dinner, this dish checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and satisfaction.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Cornstarch

• All-purpose flour

• Eggs

• Salt and pepper

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

• Garlic, minced

• Soy sauce

• Honey

• Ketchup

• Rice vinegar

• Sesame oil

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

2. Dredge each piece in a mix of cornstarch and flour.

3. Dip the coated chicken into beaten eggs and then back into the flour mixture.

4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

5. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on paper towels to drain.

6. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine garlic, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a gentle boil.

7. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

8. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss until well coated.

9. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes, making the total time around 40 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

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

• Vegetarian twist: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower.

• Low-carb: Skip the flour and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for coating.

• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free flour blends.

• Extra saucy: Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer more coating for rice or noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. For best results, reheat in a skillet to retain crispiness. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may become watery upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?

To retain some crispiness, add the chicken to the sauce just before serving and toss quickly. You can also double-fry the chicken for extra crunch.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out faster than thighs.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, the base recipe is sweet and savory, not spicy. You can add spice if desired.

Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately and combine before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best oil for frying the chicken?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are best for frying due to their high smoke points.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead?

Yes, air-frying is a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken pieces, spray with oil, and air-fry at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

What should I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, lo mein, or stir-fried vegetables.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the sauce.

Can I use store-bought sesame sauce?

You can, but homemade sauce gives more control over flavor and freshness.

Is it okay to freeze Honey Sesame Chicken?

Freezing is not ideal due to the sauce becoming watery and the coating losing its crispness. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken is a restaurant-style dish made easy at home with everyday ingredients and simple techniques. It delivers the perfect combination of sweetness, savoriness, and crunch in every bite. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or planning a family meal, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Honey Sesame Chicken

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Honey Sesame Chicken is a crispy and flavorful Asian-inspired dish featuring fried chicken pieces tossed in a sticky, sweet-savory sauce made with honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it’s easy to make and a family favorite.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Mix cornstarch and flour in a shallow dish.
3. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip in beaten eggs, then coat again in the flour mixture.
4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
6. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine garlic, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a gentle boil.
7. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
9. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

• Use chicken breast or thigh based on preference, but avoid overcooking breast meat.
• Double the sauce if serving with rice or noodles and prefer it extra saucy.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
• To keep chicken crispy, toss in sauce just before serving.
• Air-frying or baking is a healthier alternative to deep frying.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 160mg