Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crispy textures, you cannot go wrong with Honey Sesame Chicken. This recipe brings together tender chicken pieces coated in a light, crispy batter, then drenched in a luscious honey sesame sauce packed with garlic and just the right hint of tang from rice vinegar. The result is a mouthwatering combination that feels like a special treat but is surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends on the weekend, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Honey Sesame Chicken are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to layer flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role—from the crispy coating to the lusciously sticky sauce that clings to every bite.

• Chicken (1 1/2 lb, breast or thighs): Choose your preferred cut, cut into 1-inch pieces for perfect bite-sized portions that cook quickly and evenly.
• Chicken bouillon powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a depth of savory umami to the marinade that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• White pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle heat without overpowering the delicate balance of the sauce.
• Eggs (2 large): Acts as a binding agent for the batter, helping it adhere perfectly to the chicken.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Gives structure to the batter, ensuring a light but crispy coating.
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup + 2 teaspoons): The star for crispiness in the batter and thickening the sauce to a glossy finish.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps create a delicately airy texture in the batter.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning both the batter and sauce components.
• Water (multiple uses): Used to create batter consistency, marinade dilution, and in the sauce for perfect balance.
• Vegetable oil (for frying and 2 teaspoons in batter): Creates that irresistible golden crisp outside and is mild in flavor.
• Light soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Brings savory depth and a beautiful dark color to the sauce.
• Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds complexity and a subtle sweetness that rounds out the sauce.
• Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Offers a bright tang that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
• Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Injects a gentle tomato tang, enhancing the sauce’s familiar taste.
• Honey (1/4 cup): The key ingredient lending the iconic sweet flavor and glossy sheen.
• Brown sugar (3 tablespoons): Deepens the sweetness with a molasses note, perfect for balance.
• Garlic (4 cloves): Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
• Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): A nutty finish that makes this dish unmistakably sesame-inspired.
• Green onion (sliced) and toasted sesame seeds: Fresh garnishes that add pops of color and extra flavor layers.

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by giving the chicken pieces a flavorful boost. Toss the cut chicken with chicken bouillon powder, white pepper, and a touch of water. Let this sit for at least 10 minutes so the savory notes really soak in and tenderize your meat before frying. This step takes minimal effort but makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine light soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, and water in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. This sauce is the heart of the Honey Sesame Chicken, delivering those addictive flavors that coat every crispy piece.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, water, and vegetable oil. Aim for a consistency that clings easily to the chicken but is not too thick. Pour this batter over the marinated chicken and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated, setting the stage for a crispy, golden crust.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or heavy-bottomed pot to around 365°F. Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Fry for about 3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, then transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil. This first fry cooks the chicken without browning it too much.

Step 5: Double Fry for Crispy Perfection

Increase the oil temperature to 375°F. Fry the chicken a second time in batches for 2 more minutes, allowing it to turn a beautiful golden brown and reach maximum crispiness. The double fry technique is key to that irresistible crunch that defines the dish.

Step 6: Cook the Honey Sesame Sauce

In the same wok, add a teaspoon of oil over medium heat and quickly sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly for around 2 minutes. Then whisk the cornstarch slurry made by mixing cornstarch and water, adding it to thicken the sauce quickly. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil to infuse that signature nutty aroma.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Toss the double-fried chicken gently in the warm honey sesame sauce until every piece is glossy and coated beautifully. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Now, dig in and delight in that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy!

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this dish to restaurant-quality presentation. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously for added crunch and nuttiness. Thinly sliced green onions provide a bright contrast in both color and flavor that complements the rich sauce. You can also add a few fresh chili flakes for a subtle kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

Honey Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with light, fluffy steamed rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the luscious sauce. For a balanced meal, add stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy. A crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar also offers a refreshing textural contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Honey Sesame Chicken in lettuce cups for a fun finger-food option, letting diners create their own wraps. Alternatively, toss the chicken with noodles and fresh herbs for a noodle bowl that doubles as a complete meal. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and even a drizzle of additional honey for a sweet finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Honey Sesame Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve crispiness, separate the chicken pieces from the sauce if possible and store separately. This way you can reheat the chicken to maintain crunch and add the sauce fresh before serving again.

Freezing

While freezing cooked Honey Sesame Chicken is possible, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Place them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain maximum texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Honey Sesame Chicken is by warming the chicken pieces in a hot oven or air fryer to restore the crispy texture, then gently reheating the sauce on the stovetop. After warming both separately, toss together quickly so the chicken doesn’t get soggy and enjoy just as fresh as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content, making them an excellent choice for Honey Sesame Chicken. Just cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.

Is the double frying step necessary?

Double frying is what gives the chicken its signature crispy exterior that holds up to the sticky sauce without getting soggy too quickly. Skipping this step may result in less crunch and a heavier coating.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The honey sesame sauce can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Just warm it gently before combining with the freshly fried chicken.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil works well due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point, allowing you to fry the chicken at the correct temperature for optimal crispiness without burning.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Honey Sesame Chicken gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep flavors authentic without gluten.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Honey Sesame Chicken, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish for good reason. The perfectly crispy chicken enveloped in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce creates a craving-worthy meal that’s just waiting to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a whirl—you might just find your new favorite comfort food to share with family and friends!

Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 26 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Halal

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Description

This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe features crispy double-fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy honey sesame sauce. Marinated and battered for extra tenderness and crunch, the dish is finished with aromatic garlic, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh green onions for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal as a delicious main course for home-cooked meals or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Batter:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water

For Garnish:

• Green onion, sliced
• Toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: Place the 1 inch cut pieces of chicken into a bowl with chicken bouillon powder, white pepper, and 1 tablespoon water. Mix thoroughly to combine and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons water. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Set aside for later use.
3. Make the batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, 1/4 cup water, and 2 teaspoons vegetable oil until a smooth batter forms. Pour the batter over the marinated chicken pieces and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the batter.
4. Fry the chicken (first fry): Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F (185°C). Carefully add the battered chicken pieces individually to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through but not yet fully crisp. Remove with a spider strainer and drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil.
5. Double fry the chicken: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken again in batches for 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. This double frying step ensures an extra crunchy texture. Remove the chicken and drain on a wire rack.
6. Cook the honey sesame sauce: In a clean wok over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer while stirring continuously for about 2 minutes. Mix the cornstarch slurry by combining 2 teaspoons cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water, then add it to the simmering sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Turn off heat, stir in the sesame oil, and mix to combine.
7. Combine and serve: Toss the crispy fried chicken pieces with the thickened honey sesame sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful, crispy honey sesame chicken!

Notes

• For extra crispy chicken, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying each batch.
• Use a thermometer to maintain accurate oil temperature during frying.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by modifying the amount of honey and brown sugar to taste.
• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture if preferred over chicken breasts.
• Double frying is key to achieving a crispy exterior that holds up well with the sticky sauce.
• Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Honey Sesame Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Asian Chicken Recipe, Fried Chicken with Honey Sauce, Sweet and Tangy Chicken, Double Fried Chicken