Honey Sesame Chicken

Yummy and sticky, Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors to your table. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The unique combination of honey and sesame creates a sauce that’s irresistible, making it a family favorite. Whether served over rice or with a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The sweet honey combined with soy sauce delivers a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
• Healthier Option: This recipe allows you to enjoy takeout flavors with less oil and sugar than typical restaurant versions.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables or adjust the sweetness to fit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Honey Sesame Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having everything at hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Glass bowl
• Tongs
• Slotted spoon
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Glass bowl: Ideal for mixing ingredients without reacting with acidic components in the marinade.
• Tongs: Handy for safely adding and removing chicken from hot oil.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil from cooked chicken, keeping it crispy.

Ingredients

Yummy sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken.

Chicken and Coating Ingredients

• 4-6 c vegetable oil for frying
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1/2 c flour, sifted
• 1/4 c corn starch
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 egg white
• 1/3 c water

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 4 tbsp honey
• 4 tsp corn starch
• 2/3 c water

Garnish

• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame Seeds

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Mix all batter ingredients in a glass bowl until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps for the best coating on your chicken.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a frying pan and heat it to medium heat (about 350 degrees). The oil should be deep enough so that the chicken doesn’t touch the bottom while frying.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken strips using tongs in batches.
Cook each batch for about 5 minutes, ensuring they are golden brown.
Check doneness by cutting open one piece; it should be fully cooked through.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the chicken from the oil and place it onto paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In another bowl, combine all sauce ingredients and whisk until well mixed.

Step 6: Heat Up The Sauce

Heat a clean frying pan over low heat. Pour in the sauce mixture.
Gradually turn up to medium heat while constantly whisking.
Once it starts boiling, keep whisking until it thickens.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Turn off the heat and add the fried chicken into the sauce. Toss everything together until each piece is coated evenly.

Step 8: Serve

Pour everything into a serving bowl and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. Enjoy your homemade Honey Sesame Chicken!

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey sesame chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the honey sesame chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the sweet sauce, creating a delightful combination.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. This adds freshness and crunch to your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fun and interactive meal as guests can create their own wraps.

On Noodles

• Serve honey sesame chicken atop a plate of noodles—like chow mein or udon—for a heartier dish. Drizzle additional sauce for extra flavor.

As Part of a Chinese Feast

• Include honey sesame chicken in a larger spread with other Chinese dishes such as spring rolls and dumplings. This creates an authentic dining experience.

How to Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

To achieve the best flavor and texture for your honey sesame chicken, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality sauces will significantly enhance the taste of your dish.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your frying oil is at the right temperature (350 degrees) for crispy chicken.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid steaming it; this keeps it crispy.
• Whisk Sauce Continuously: When making the sauce, whisk constantly to prevent burning and ensure an even consistency.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey or sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.
• Garnish Generously: Top with plenty of sesame seeds and green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken

Pairing side dishes with honey sesame chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic accompaniment that adds texture and flavor; you can add peas, carrots, and eggs for extra nutrition.
2. Egg Rolls: Crunchy and filled with vegetables, egg rolls complement the sweetness of honey sesame chicken perfectly.
3. Miso Soup: A light soup that balances out the richness of the main dish and is easy to prepare.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds crunch; simply toss cucumbers with vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; steaming preserves nutrients while providing a vibrant color contrast on the plate.
6. Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of pickled veggies cuts through the sweetness of the dish, offering a nice balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Sesame Chicken, it’s easy to fall into some common traps. Here are a few mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for better taste.
• Incorrect oil temperature – Frying chicken at the wrong temperature can make it soggy or burnt. Use a thermometer to ensure oil is around 350 degrees.
• Overcrowding the pan – Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature and make cooking uneven. Fry in batches for consistent results.
• Neglecting to whisk the sauce – Failing to whisk the sauce continuously can cause it to burn or not thicken properly. Keep stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Using low-quality honey – Poor quality honey can affect taste. Choose pure, high-quality honey for the best flavor.
• Not garnishing with sesame seeds – Skipping this step can result in missing that authentic look and crunch. Always sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Honey Sesame Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Sesame Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat a pan over low-medium heat, add a splash of water or oil, and stir-fry until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Honey Sesame Chicken.

What is Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken is a delicious Asian-inspired dish featuring crispy chicken coated in a sweet and sticky sauce made with honey and sesame.

How can I customize my Honey Sesame Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey as per your preference.

Is Honey Sesame Chicken healthy?

It can be made healthier by using less sugar and opting for leaner cuts of chicken, making it suitable for various diets.

Can I make Honey Sesame Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and use cornstarch instead of flour if needed.

How do I serve Honey Sesame Chicken?

Serve over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any dinner occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients while still keeping its charm. Give this recipe a try; you will love how easy it is!