Honey Sesame Chicken (Sweet, Savory & Simple)

Name: Honey Sesame Chicken (Sweet, Savory & Simple)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying); 1/4 cup cornstarch; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/3 cup honey; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp garlic (minced); 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated); 1 tbsp water (optional, for thinning); 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish); 2-3 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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Honey Sesame Chicken (Sweet, Savory & Simple) is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring crispy chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with family and friends. Served over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The sauce is a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess with hints of garlic and ginger.

The crispy chicken pieces hold up beautifully against the sticky glaze.

It’s quick to make, ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients.

Customizable with variations to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

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

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

1/4 cup cornstarch

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce:

1/3 cup honey

3 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tbsp garlic (minced)

2 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)

1 tbsp water (optional, for thinning)

2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the chicken:

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until fully coated.

Cook the chicken:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Make the sauce:

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Add a tablespoon of water if the sauce feels too thick.

Coat the chicken:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently toss it in the sauce. Let it cook together for 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the sauce and becomes nicely glazed.

Serve:

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added nutrition.

Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different spin.

Less Sweet: Reduce the honey to 1/4 cup for a less sweet glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and provide a slightly richer flavor. Just ensure they’re boneless and cut into similar-sized pieces.

How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?

Cook the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain crispiness.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

While the sauce can be prepared ahead, it’s best to cook the chicken fresh to retain its crispiness.

Can I freeze Honey Sesame Chicken?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh green salad pair wonderfully with this dish.

Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken (Sweet, Savory & Simple) is a sweet and savory delight that’s easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m serving it over rice or pairing it with vegetables, it’s a dish that delivers big on flavor without a lot of fuss. With its quick preparation and simple ingredients, this recipe is a keeper for busy nights or anytime I’m craving a satisfying homemade meal.

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