honey sesame chicken recipe
The Best honey sesame chicken recipe
I’ve made honey sesame chicken more times than I can count, and it’s one of those recipes that never gets old. The sweet and savory glaze, the crispy bite of the chicken, and that nutty sesame crunch—it’s just so satisfying. My kids ask for it at least once a week, and honestly, I don’t mind because it’s quick to throw together and always disappears fast. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish hits the spot every time.
What I love most is how balanced it feels. The honey adds natural sweetness without being overpowering, and the sesame seeds bring in a little protein and healthy fats. Plus, baking the chicken instead of frying keeps it lighter while still giving that crispy texture. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down afterward. And let’s be real—anything that makes the whole family happy without a ton of effort is a win in my book.
Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken
A sweet and savory Chinese-American favorite featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sticky honey sesame sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/3 cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk in the beaten egg and water until a smooth batter forms.
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2 Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
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3 Working in batches, dip chicken pieces into the batter, letting excess drip off, then carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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4 In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
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5 In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
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6 Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
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7 Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Plate or baking sheet
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken Works
This honey sesame chicken is one of those recipes that just works every time—simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for company. The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, and the crispy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser at any family gathering. Plus, it’s quick to make and even better as leftovers, so you can count on it to save the day when you need a reliable, delicious meal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken
1. Can I make honey sesame chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet or air fryer until crispy, then toss with the warmed sauce. Avoid combining them too early, as the chicken may lose its crispiness.
2. What can I use instead of cornstarch for crispy chicken?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder, potato starch, or even all-purpose flour as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or rice flour works well, though the texture may vary slightly. Keep in mind that the crispiness might differ based on the substitute used.
3. How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
To thicken the sauce, simmer it for an extra 2-3 minutes or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce while cooking. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or even pineapple juice until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely! For baking, coat the chicken in cornstarch and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. For an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Both methods will give you crispy chicken, though frying yields the crispiest results.
5. What sides pair well with honey sesame chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, fried rice, or noodles like lo mein. For a lighter option, try stir-fried vegetables, cucumber salad, or edamame. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
