Honey Sesame Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious, then Honey Sesame Chicken is just what you need! This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and it brings back so many wonderful memories of busy weeknights when we craved something special yet simple to make. The combination of juicy chicken pieces with a thick, sweet, and savory sauce never fails to impress, making it perfect for everything from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to whip up. You can enjoy the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout without stepping foot outside your door. Plus, the kids just adore it! Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your household too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet flavors and crispy chicken—it’s a sure hit for even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time or prep the sauce for an even quicker meal later.
• Endless flavor: The honey sesame sauce is not only tasty but also versatile. It works well on various proteins or even veggies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create a delicious Honey Sesame Chicken right at home. Gather them up and let’s get cooking!

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast or thighs (cut into 1 inch pieces)
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Batter

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons water

For Cooking

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Garnish

• Green onion (sliced)
• Toasted sesame seeds

Variations

This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you might like:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu for a different spin on this classic dish.
• Add veggies: Toss in some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Spicy twist: If you love heat, add some chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
• Baked version: Instead of frying, bake the battered chicken for a healthier option while still keeping that crunch.

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your one-inch pieces of chicken in a bowl. Add in the chicken bouillon powder, white pepper, and water. Mix everything well until combined. Marinating is crucial as it infuses flavor into the meat and ensures each bite is delicious. Let this sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine light soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, and some water. Stir until well mixed and set aside. This sweet-savory sauce is what makes Honey Sesame Chicken so irresistible!

Step 3: Make the Batter

In another medium bowl, whisk together eggs, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, water, and oil until smooth. Pour this batter over your marinated chicken and mix gently until every piece is coated evenly. This step creates that delightful crispy exterior we all crave!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a wok or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add your battered chicken pieces individually to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown on the outside. Using a spider strainer helps keep things tidy as you remove them to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Double Fry for Extra Crispiness

For an extra crunchy texture that everyone loves, increase your oil temperature to 375°F before frying again. In batches again, fry each piece for another 2 minutes until they are beautifully crispy. This double-frying method ensures they stay crunchy even after adding sauce!

Step 6: Cook the Honey Sesame Sauce

In your wok (no need to clean it), add about a teaspoon of oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in your prepared sauce mixture and stir well while bringing it to a gentle simmer for about two minutes. To thicken it up nicely, mix in your cornstarch slurry and cook until it’s thickened—about one more minute—before adding sesame oil.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Finally, toss your crispy chicken pieces in that luscious honey sesame sauce until they are beautifully coated. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving hot! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Sesame Chicken

Making honey sesame chicken at home is a rewarding experience, and these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results!

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes not only infuses it with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, making each bite juicy and delicious.
• Perfect the Frying Temperature: Using a thermometer to monitor your oil temperature is crucial. Frying at the right temperatures (365°F for the first fry and 375°F for the second) ensures that your chicken turns out crispy and golden without absorbing too much oil.
• Batch Frying: Frying in small batches prevents overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. This allows each piece of chicken to cook evenly and maintain its crispy texture.
• Sauce Consistency: When making the sauce, make sure to continuously stir while simmering. This helps prevent burning and ensures a smooth, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to your chicken pieces.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, don’t hesitate to add a bit more honey or brown sugar. Taste-testing as you go allows you to customize the dish to suit your palate perfectly.

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken

Presenting honey sesame chicken can be just as enjoyable as preparing it! Here are some ideas on how to plate and serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Sliced Green Onions: Freshly sliced green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the dish.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only enhances presentation but also adds a nutty crunch that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up the sweet and savory sauce, providing a lovely balance to the dish.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed in garlic makes for a healthy and vibrant side that adds freshness.
• Egg Fried Rice: Fluffy rice stir-fried with eggs and green peas offers a hearty accompaniment that pairs well with the sweet flavors of honey sesame chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar makes for a light side that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your homemade honey sesame chicken! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade flavors throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers effectively!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to keep the chicken coated in sauce to maintain its flavor and moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the Honey Sesame Chicken into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until hot.
• If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making this delightful dish!

What can I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal.

How do I make Honey Sesame Chicken healthier?

To make a lighter version of Honey Sesame Chicken, consider baking the chicken instead of frying it. Coat it lightly in a batter and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with tofu or shrimp if you prefer a vegetarian or seafood option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Honey Sesame Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Honey Sesame Chicken is ideal for meal prep since it stores well and can be easily reheated without losing its flavor.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Certainly! You can reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect balance!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Honey Sesame Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a dish—it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!