Honey Sesame Chicken

Yummy sticky and sweet Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of crispy chicken coated in a luscious, honey-infused sauce is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy making this easy yet flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Deliciously Sweet: The honey provides a unique sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory flavors.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it with rice or salad, making it suitable for both casual dinners and festive occasions.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sticky texture and bold flavors of this chicken dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make preparing your Honey Sesame Chicken easier, gather the following essential tools before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Tongs
• Whisk
• Glass bowl
• Slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve the desired crispiness of the chicken.
• Tongs: Using tongs makes it easy to handle hot chicken without burning your fingers while frying.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining sauce ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Slotted spoon: This tool helps remove excess oil from the fried chicken, keeping it crispy without being greasy.

Ingredients

Yummy sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken.

For Frying

• 4-6 c vegetable oil for frying
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips

For the Batter

• 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

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 well to coat them evenly.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil in a saucepan and heat to medium heat (350 degrees). Ensure that there is enough oil so that chicken pieces do not touch the bottom while cooking.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Using tongs, add chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each piece for about 5 minutes. Check doneness by cutting into one piece; it should be fully cooked through.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine all sauce ingredients and whisk until combined. Heat a frying pan over low heat and add the sauce mixture.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Increase heat to medium and constantly whisk as the sauce begins to boil. Once thickened, turn off the heat.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add fried chicken pieces to the thickened sauce in the pan. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Pour everything into a serving bowl, topping with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish. Enjoy your delicious Honey Sesame Chicken!

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken

Serving Honey Sesame Chicken can elevate your dinner experience, making it both delightful and visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the honey sesame chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. The crunchy veggies add a fresh contrast to the sweet and sticky chicken.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve honey sesame chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a light and healthy option that’s perfect for gatherings.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Top your dish with sliced green onions for added color and flavor. The fresh onion notes complement the sweetness of the honey sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

Perfecting Honey Sesame Chicken requires attention to detail and a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality honey make a significant difference in flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 350 degrees Fahrenheit before adding chicken to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to soggy pieces.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Whisk constantly while heating the sauce, as this helps achieve a smooth and thick consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before combining it with the chicken; adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken

To complete your meal, consider serving these tasty sides alongside your honey sesame chicken. Each dish complements the flavors beautifully.

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice that adds heartiness and flavor, packed with vegetables and egg.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a satisfying crunch alongside your main dish.
3. Noodle Salad: A refreshing noodle salad tossed with sesame dressing balances the sweetness of the chicken perfectly.
4. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a cool contrast to the warm chicken dish.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and enhances the Asian theme of your meal.
6. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or vegetables offer a light and crunchy bite that pairs nicely.
7. Steamed Dumplings: Savory dumplings make an excellent addition, offering another layer of texture and flavor.
8. Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy brings a touch of bitterness that balances out the sweet flavors in honey sesame chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Honey Sesame Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the Oil Temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, your chicken will absorb too much oil, making it greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure it’s around 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow it to soak in soy sauce and vinegar for at least 15 minutes for better taste.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for a crispy texture.

• Not Whisking the Sauce Properly: If you don’t whisk the sauce continuously while it thickens, it may clump or burn. Keep stirring to achieve a smooth consistency.

• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds and green onions can diminish presentation and flavor. Don’t forget these fresh toppings for a delightful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Sesame Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It freezes well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Honey Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warm, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan with a splash of water for moisture, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken is a popular dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet honey and sesame sauce. It’s often served as part of Asian cuisine.

How do I make Honey Sesame Chicken gluten-free?

To make Honey Sesame Chicken gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I add vegetables to Honey Sesame Chicken?

Yes! You can enhance your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. Simply stir-fry them alongside the chicken before adding the sauce.

What should I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles or a fresh salad for balance.

How spicy is Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken typically has no heat but you can add crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy spice!

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adjusting the sweetness or adding your favorite vegetables. With its sticky and sweet glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today!