Honey Sesame Chicken

Yummy sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken is a delightful dish that brings the perfect blend of flavors to your dinner table. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a unique taste that will impress your family and guests alike. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Honey Sesame Chicken stands out as a versatile option loved by many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of honey and sesame creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles, or pair it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty chicken dish, making it ideal for family dinners.
• Authentic Flavor: Enjoy the savory taste of Asian cuisine right from your kitchen with this simple recipe.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Honey Sesame Chicken, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Saucepan
• Glass bowl
• Slotted spoon
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for heating sauces evenly without burning them.
• Saucepan: Perfect for frying the chicken to achieve that crispy texture.
• Glass bowl: Great for mixing ingredients without reacting with them.
• Slotted spoon: Helps in draining excess oil from cooked chicken effectively.

Ingredients

Yummy sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken.

For the Chicken 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

For 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 smooth. Ensure there are no lumps for an even coating on the chicken.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan and heat it to medium heat (350 degrees). The oil should be deep enough so that chicken strips do not touch the bottom while frying.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Add chicken pieces using tongs, cooking them in batches. Fry each piece for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Check doneness by cutting open one piece.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

Using a slotted spoon, remove cooked chicken from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Whisk until well mixed.

Step 6: Heat the Sauce

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

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Once bubbling, turn off heat once the sauce has thickened appropriately.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add fried chicken pieces to the sauce, tossing gently to ensure each piece is well coated.

Step 9: Serve

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

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey sesame chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Serve Over Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice complements the sweet and sticky sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Pair with Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and crunch to the plate.
• Sautéed Snap Peas: These sweet peas provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Create a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap pieces of honey sesame chicken for a fun, low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps: Soft tortillas can be filled with chicken, veggies, and sauce for a tasty handheld meal.

Garnish Creatively

• Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: These add an appealing crunch and enhance the sesame flavor in the dish.

How to Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

To ensure your honey sesame chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality honey will significantly improve the taste of your dish.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 350 degrees Fahrenheit ensures crispy chicken without being greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry chicken in batches to maintain even cooking and crispiness.
• Whisk Sauce Continuously: Constant whisking while heating prevents burning and helps achieve the right thickness.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust sweetness or saltiness in your sauce before tossing it with the chicken for optimal flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly after frying for better moisture retention.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken

Pairing side dishes with honey sesame chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fried Rice: A savory blend of rice, vegetables, and soy sauce that pairs well with the sweet flavors of honey sesame chicken.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat provide a delightful crunch that complements the dish.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and depth, balancing out the sweetness of the chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a light contrast to the rich main dish.
5. Asian Slaw: This crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds texture and brightness to your meal.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs can be an interesting alternative to rice, providing a protein boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make errors when preparing Honey Sesame Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to measure and prep all ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion while cooking. Always have everything ready before you start.
• Using the Wrong Oil Temperature: Cooking chicken at an incorrect oil temperature can result in soggy or burnt pieces. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right heat (350 degrees).
• Skipping the Sauce Whisking: Not whisking the sauce while it cooks can cause clumping. Always keep stirring until it thickens for a smooth texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for best results.
• Ignoring Doneness Checks: Not checking chicken doneness may lead to undercooked meat. Cut a piece open to confirm it’s fully cooked before removing from oil.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store 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 or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Honey Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken is a sweet and sticky dish made with battered chicken pieces coated in a honey-soy sauce mixture, often served over rice.

How do I make Honey Sesame Chicken crispy?

To achieve crispy chicken, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking.

Can I customize my Honey Sesame Chicken?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition, or adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.

Is Honey Sesame Chicken healthy?

While it’s delicious, Honey Sesame Chicken can be high in sugar and calories. Consider using less honey or baking instead of frying for a healthier option.

What dishes pair well with Honey Sesame Chicken?

This dish goes well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it based on your taste preferences by adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. This dish is perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying. Give it a try!