Honey Sesame Chicken

Yummy sticky and sweet Honey Sesame Chicken is the perfect dish for various occasions. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hosting friends, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction. The unique combination of honey and sesame creates a delightful glaze that coats crispy chicken strips, making it an irresistible treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 50 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: With the perfect blend of sweet honey and savory soy sauce, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Easy to Make: Even novice cooks can master this simple recipe with ease, thanks to clear step-by-step instructions.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will save time and help focus on creating delicious Honey Sesame Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: Ensures even cooking of the chicken with enough space for oil to circulate.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing batter ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth sauce without lumps.
• Slotted spoon: Helps drain excess oil from cooked chicken, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

Yummy sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken.

For the Batter

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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

To 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 well combined. Add the chicken strips and stir to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan and heat it to medium heat (about 350 degrees). Make sure there’s enough oil so that the chicken doesn’t touch the bottom while cooking.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Using tongs, carefully add batches of chicken strips into the hot oil. Cook each batch for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Check doneness by cutting open a piece of chicken.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil. Place it on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In another bowl, combine all ingredients for the sauce. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 6: Cook the Sauce

Heat a frying pan over low heat. Pour in the sauce mixture and turn the heat to medium. Constantly whisk as it begins to boil.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Once it starts boiling, continue whisking until the sauce thickens. Turn off the heat once done.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add fried chicken pieces to the thickened sauce and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.

Step 9: 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. Its sticky sweetness pairs well with many sides, enhancing your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. It provides a neutral base to balance the flavors of the honey sesame chicken.

Over Noodles

• Serving honey sesame chicken over noodles adds a delightful twist. The noodles can absorb the sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

In a Wrap

• For a fun and portable option, consider wrapping honey sesame chicken in lettuce or tortilla wraps. Add some crunchy vegetables for extra texture and flavor.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pairing this dish with stir-fried vegetables adds color and nutrients. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas are great choices that complement the sweetness of the chicken.

On a Salad

• Transform your honey sesame chicken into a salad by adding mixed greens and fresh veggies. Drizzle with extra dressing to enhance the flavors further.

As Appetizers

• Serve bite-sized pieces of honey sesame chicken as appetizers at parties. They are perfect for dipping and sharing among guests.

How to Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

To elevate your honey sesame chicken, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality honey will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure your frying oil reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly crispy chicken. If it’s too hot or cold, it can affect cooking time and texture.

• Whisk Sauce Thoroughly: When preparing the sauce, whisk it well to ensure all ingredients blend seamlessly for an even flavor profile.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to avoid steaming the chicken. This ensures each piece gets golden brown and crispy.

• Add Extra Crunch: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds right before serving for an added crunch and flavor boost.

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey based on your personal taste preferences. More honey means sweeter sauce!

Best Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey sesame chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic Asian side that combines rice with vegetables and eggs, making it hearty and flavorful.

2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh vegetables add crunchiness to your meal while being light and refreshing.

3. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a tasty contrast to the sweetness of the chicken.

4. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser that balances out the richness of the dish.

5. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup is simple yet flavorful, making it an excellent starter alongside your main course.

6. Chow Mein: Noodles stir-fried with vegetables create a delicious complement to honey sesame chicken, soaking up any extra sauce.

7. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots can add brightness and texture to your plate.

8. Steamed Dumplings: These soft dumplings filled with meat or vegetables can serve as a delightful side or appetizer option alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Sesame Chicken, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy pieces. Fry in small batches for the best texture.
• Skipping the Batter: The batter is crucial for that crispy exterior. Don’t skip it; make sure to coat the chicken well before frying.
• Not Checking Doneness: Forgetting to check if the chicken is fully cooked can ruin your dish. Always cut a piece open to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap soy sauce or honey can affect flavor. Use high-quality ingredients for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, it won’t cling well to the chicken. Whisk continuously as it cooks until it thickens properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Honey Sesame Chicken

• Freeze in a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Ensure all air is removed from bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Honey Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Stir frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish made with crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce, popular in Asian cuisine.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu if you want a variation of Honey Sesame Chicken.

How can I make it healthier?

You can bake the chicken instead of frying it, and use less honey or substitute it with a sugar alternative.

What should I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

Serve it over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken offers a delicious blend of flavors that are sure to please anyone at your dinner table. It’s also versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its sticky, sweet goodness!