There’s an irresistible charm in the process of whipping up a homemade dish that rivals your favorite takeout, and nothing encapsulates that more than my Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken. When the sweet aroma of honey mingles with the savory essence of freshly sautéed garlic, it transforms my kitchen into a haven, making it impossible not to feel excited.
After stumbling upon a quick and easy version of this classic dish, I knew it would become a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation. It takes just 40 minutes to create an elegant meal that captures the flavors you crave without the unnecessary grease of fast food. Whether you opt for chicken breasts or decide to switch things up with juicy thighs, the balance of crunchy batter and that luscious honey sesame sauce will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds.
Dive into this cooking adventure with me and discover how easy it is to serve up restaurant-quality sesame chicken in the comfort of your home!
Why Will You Love Sesame Chicken?
Simplicity at Its Best: This sesame chicken recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.
Crispy Perfection: Every bite features tender chicken coated in a light, crunchy batter, giving you that delightful contrast in texture.
Flavor Explosion: The luscious honey sesame sauce perfectly melds sweet and savory elements, giving your taste buds a truly unforgettable experience.
Versatile Options: Whether you use chicken breasts or thighs—or even swap them for tofu—this recipe accommodates your dietary preferences flawlessly.
Healthy Twist: For a lighter option, skip the frying and sauté chicken for a dish that satisfies without the extra calories.
Family Favorite: With its irresistible aroma and delightful taste, it’s bound to become a meal your family looks forward to.
Sesame Chicken Ingredients
• Create the perfect homemade sesame chicken with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein source, cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Eggs – Help bind the coating to the chicken, ensuring a crisp exterior.
- Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust to your palate.
- All-purpose flour – Provides a delightful crisp coating; gluten-free flour can serve as a substitute.
- Cornstarch – A secret ingredient for achieving that extra light and crunchy texture.
For Frying
- Oil for frying – Crucial for a crispy finish; vegetable or canola oil works best.
- Vegetable oil – Used to sauté garlic, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
For the Sauce
- Minced fresh garlic – Adds a depth of savory flavor to the sauce; fresh is best!
- Honey – Naturally sweetens the sauce; agave syrup works well for a different twist.
- Soy sauce – Infuses the sauce with umami; opt for reduced sodium for a healthier dish.
- Ketchup – Gives a sweet and tangy profile that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Brown sugar – Enhances sweetness; feel free to interchange light or dark brown sugar.
- Rice vinegar – Adds acidity, brightening the flavors; substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
- Toasted sesame oil – Essential for imparting a rich sesame flavor that makes this dish authentic.
- Cornstarch (additional) – Used to thicken the sauce for that perfect consistency.
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds – Sprinkle on top for garnish and an extra layer of flavor; toasting them enhances depth.
- Sliced green onions – Fresh, vibrant garnish adding color and a slight pungency to the dish.
How to Make Sesame Chicken
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix flour and cornstarch. Coat each chicken piece by dipping first into the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture until fully covered.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 3 inches of oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F. Using a thermometer will ensure the perfect frying temperature for crispiness.
- Fry Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches (about 7-8 pieces at a time) and fry for approximately 5 minutes, or until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well until smooth to create your luscious sauce.
- Cook Sauce: Heat a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the honey sauce mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency.
- Combine & Serve: Toss the fried chicken into the sauce until well coated. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy this delicious sesame chicken warm!
Optional: Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sesame Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this comforting dish your own by exploring fun and delicious twists!
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful outcome. The extra fat renders perfectly when fried!
- Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian delight, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, maintaining the same crispy coating for a fantastic crunch.
- Gluten-Free Flour: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive eaters while retaining that beloved crisp.
- Healthier Sauté: Skipping the frying? Sauté cubed chicken in a small amount of oil and toss it in the sauce for a delightfully lighter option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a couple of teaspoons of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for a fiery, mouth-watering experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Coconut Sugar: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a unique, nutty flavor that adds complexity to the sweetness of the dish.
- Veggie Add-ins: Stir in some colorful vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli while cooking the sauce for a nutritious and vibrant dish.
- Noodle Fun: Serve this sesame chicken over cooked lo mein or chow mein noodles for a fulfilling, noodle-centered meal that takes it to the next level.
Expert Tips for Sesame Chicken
- Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to ensure your frying oil stays at 350°F. If it’s too cool, chicken can absorb excess oil and lose crispiness.
- Batter Consistency: Make sure the chicken pieces are well-coated in both the egg and flour mixtures. This extra attention will give you a crispy exterior that holds the sauce beautifully.
- Sauce Preparation: For the best flavor, prepare the sauce while the chicken is frying. This way, once your chicken is done, you can combine it immediately for a warm, delicious coating.
- Storage Insight: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the coating may lose its crispy texture over time.
- Healthier Option: For a lower-calorie dish, skip the frying. Simply sauté cubed chicken in a little oil and toss with the honey sesame sauce to enjoy a lighter version of sesame chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken pieces and coat them up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. Simply store the coated chicken in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade sesame chicken, all you need to do is fry the chicken and toss it in the reheated sauce. This way, you can serve a delicious meal in no time, ensuring that it tastes just as delightful as if it were made fresh that day!
What to Serve with Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken?
Creating a mouthwatering meal is all about harmonious pairings that complement each other and elevate your dining experience.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice absorbs the sticky honey sesame sauce, making each bite delightful and balanced.
- Garlic Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli tossed in garlic gives your plate a vibrant, nutritious contrast. Plus, the earthy flavors harmonize beautifully with the chicken.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, pair your chicken with sautéed zucchini noodles for a fresh and light texture that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a cool crunch, balancing the warm, rich flavors of the chicken while infusing a playful sesame hint.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy appetizers are filled with fresh veggies, providing an irresistible crunch that complements the tender chicken.
- Chardonnay or Sparkling Water: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, enhancing the sweet-sour notes of the dish, while sparkling water refreshes your palate.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, serve warm chocolate chip cookies to complete your meal with a sweet finale that will leave everyone smiling.
Indulge in these delightful accompaniments and create a dining experience your family will cherish.
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to help maintain some crispiness.
Freezer: You can freeze sesame chicken for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To retain some of the crunch, reheat frozen sesame chicken in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. Microwaving is not recommended as it may make the coating soggy.
Storage Insight: Avoid storing the sauce separately; it’s best enjoyed combined with the sesame chicken for optimal flavor and texture.
Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for sesame chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for your sesame chicken, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are firm and have a pink appearance. Avoid any pieces that are discolored or have a slimy texture, as these may be past their prime. Chicken thighs are also a great option, as they offer a juicier bite!
What is the best way to store leftover sesame chicken?
Very! Leftover sesame chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat to help maintain crispiness. This way, you can enjoy your quick homemade meal another time without sacrificing texture.
Can I freeze sesame chicken for later?
Of course! To freeze your sesame chicken, allow it to cool completely after cooking. Then, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in an oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes for the best results.
What can I do if my sesame chicken sauce is too thick?
Don’t worry! If you find your sauce is thicker than you’d like after cooking, simply add a splash of water or a little extra soy sauce to thin it out. Stir it over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about adjusting to your preference, and everyone has different tastes!
Is this sesame chicken recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a healthier version, you can skip the breading and frying altogether. Just sauté cubed chicken in a splash of vegetable oil and coat it in the honey sesame sauce for a delightful, lighter dish. If you have a gluten sensitivity, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty meal!
Savory Sesame Chicken with a Crispy Twist Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix flour and cornstarch. Coat each chicken piece by dipping first into the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture until fully covered.
- Pour about 3 inches of oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F.
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches (about 7-8 pieces at a time) and fry for approximately 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix until smooth.
- Heat a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the honey sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Toss the fried chicken into the sauce until well-coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.