Description
This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe features tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a crispy cornstarch layer, then tossed in a glossy, sweet and savory honey sesame sauce. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and an optional hint of crushed red pepper flakes, this quick and flavorful dish is perfect served over steamed rice for a delicious homemade Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
Sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (or ¼ tsp ground ginger)
Garnish
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a mixing bowl and toss them with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated. This step is essential to help the chicken develop a crispy exterior during cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add half of the coated chicken pieces to the skillet, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside. Repeat this process with the remaining oil and chicken pieces, then set aside all cooked chicken.
- Make the Honey Sesame Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger until well combined. Pour this sauce into the same skillet over medium heat and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return all the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the thickened honey sesame sauce. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with the flavorful sauce. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the mixture and stir until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with chopped green onions and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. Serve the Honey Sesame Chicken hot, ideally over steamed rice or alongside your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of traditional soy sauce.
- To add spice, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes either during cooking or as a garnish.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure even crispiness.
- To toast sesame seeds, use a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and golden.
