Sesame Chicken Honey Soy

If you are craving something bold and satisfying without waiting for takeout, this Sesame Chicken recipe is a real kitchen hero. You get juicy chicken pieces with a crispy golden crust and a sticky sweet savory sesame sauce that always gets rave reviews in my house. It is a weeknight favorite that never fails to impress guests or picky eaters alike.

What Makes It Special

• Ready in about 30 minutes so you can skip the delivery wait
• Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients from the fridge
• Sweet and savory sauce balances honey and soy with a hint of garlic
• Extra crispy chicken thanks to a double coating and quick high-heat fry

My family cheers when I make this My first attempt was on a hectic Monday and I still remember the kitchen smelling incredible before dinner even hit the table. Now it is a regular request

What You’ll Need

• Honey: for natural sweetness and glossy sauce Try to use real honey
• Low sodium soy sauce: for the signature salty base Choosing a good brand makes a difference
• Light brown sugar: for depth of flavor and rich caramel notes
• Rice vinegar: brightens up the sauce Look for unseasoned for pure flavor
• Tomato paste or ketchup: gives tang and a little body I use tomato paste for a more savory finish
• Toasted sesame oil: brings that unmistakable nutty aroma Make sure yours is fresh by giving it a quick sniff
• Fresh garlic: lifts the sauce with zippy flavor Older cloves taste bitter so go for firm bulbs
• Ground ginger: for warmth and subtle spice Fresh is great but ground works well in a pinch
• Cornstarch: for thickening the sauce and crisping the chicken Choose one that is lump-free
• Eggs: help the coating stick and give the chicken extra crunchiness
• All-purpose flour: works with the cornstarch for a solid crunchy exterior
• Fine sea salt and black pepper: to enhance every bite Use fine salt for even seasoning
• Boneless chicken breast or thighs: for tender juicy bites Thighs give a richer result but breasts stay lean
• Vegetable oil: for frying with a neutral taste and high smoke point Go for fresh oil for best results
• Sesame seeds and green onions: for garnish Creamy crunch and fresh bite make all the difference

Let’s Cook This Together

Make the Sesame Sauce:

Whisk together honey low sodium soy sauce light brown sugar rice vinegar tomato paste toasted sesame oil minced garlic and ground ginger in a mixing bowl until smooth and set it aside This blend creates the sweet tangy sticky magic for the chicken

Whip Up the Slurry:

Stir one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl Mix until fully dissolved and smooth This will thicken the sauce fast when it hits the heat

Coat the Chicken:

Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl In another bowl combine cornstarch flour fine sea salt and black pepper Dip each chicken piece into the egg to coat completely then dredge in the cornstarch mixture Shake off excess

Fry to Golden Perfection:

Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet on medium high Place the coated chicken in the hot oil in batches Fry each for about three to four minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through Remove and set on a paper towel lined plate so they stay crisp

Simmer and Thicken the Sauce:

Pour your prepared sauce into the now empty skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer Stir in the cornstarch slurry and keep stirring for one to two minutes until you notice the sauce getting shiny and thick

Bring It All Together:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet Toss and stir so every piece is coated in that glossy sauce Let everything heat through for another minute

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle the finished sesame chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for crunch and freshness Serve hot with your favorite rice or veggies

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Good to Know

• High in protein so it is satisfying and nourishing
• Sauce can be made ahead for quick prep on busy days
• Crispy even after saucing thanks to the cornstarch flour combo

My favorite part has to be the sticky sesame sauce I once made a double batch just to have extra for dipping roasted vegetables The first time my niece tried it she insisted on learning how to make it herself and now she cooks it solo

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The chicken will keep its flavor and can be quickly warmed in a skillet or microwave If you want the crispiest leftovers try reheating in the oven on a low temperature

Easy Ingredient Swaps

No honey Try maple syrup though the flavor will be a bit deeper If you do not have rice vinegar white vinegar works but use just a little to start and taste as you go Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breast if you like a juicier bite

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How to Serve It Right

Serve hot over jasmine or brown rice to soak up every bit of sauce Steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side bring color and a fresh crunch Sprinkle extra sesame seeds for a textural pop and a drizzle of chili oil if you want a spicy kick

Behind the Dish

Sesame chicken takes inspiration from Chinese American takeout but with a homemade spin The dish relies on balancing sticky sweetness with tang and umami and getting a satisfyingly crisp crust It is the kind of meal that sparks kitchen confidence

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts, resulting in a juicier texture and rich flavor.

→ How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Fry the chicken pieces in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan. Serve immediately after tossing in the sauce for best texture.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, whisk the sauce ingredients in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave just until heated through to preserve moisture and texture.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

For a balanced meal, toss in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers when combining the chicken with the sauce.