Honey Sesame Chicken

Yummy sticky and sweet Honey Sesame Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a lively gathering with friends. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken strips coated in a luscious honey sauce, creating an irresistible blend of flavors that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and bursting with sweetness, it stands out as a must-try for fans of Asian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of honey and sesame creates a sweet and savory taste that is truly unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner or meal prep, this dish pairs well with rice or noodles.
• Healthier Option: Made with fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome alternative to takeout.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture on the chicken.
• Glass bowl: Using a glass bowl allows you to mix ingredients easily while monitoring their consistency.
• Tongs: Tongs make it easy to handle hot chicken without burning your fingers, ensuring safety while cooking.

Ingredients

Yummy sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken requires the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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
• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame Seeds

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Mix all batter ingredients in a glass bowl until smooth.
2. Add the chicken strips to the batter and stir until fully coated.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

1. Pour vegetable oil into a frying pan, heating it to medium (about 350 degrees).
2. Ensure there is enough oil so that chicken does not touch the bottom while cooking.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Using tongs, add chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.
2. Cook each batch for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Check doneness by cutting open a piece; it should be fully cooked inside.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

1. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from oil.
2. Place it on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

1. In another bowl, combine all sauce ingredients and whisk until blended.
2. Heat a clean frying pan over low heat.

Step 6: Cook the Sauce

1. Pour the sauce into the heated pan.
2. Turn heat to medium and continuously whisk as it starts to boil.
3. Once thickened, turn off the heat.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add fried chicken pieces into the sauce.
2. Toss well until each piece is coated evenly.

Step 8: Serve

Pour everything into a serving bowl and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Honey Sesame Chicken!

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken

Serving Honey Sesame Chicken can be both fun and creative. This dish pairs well with several sides and garnishes that enhance its sticky sweetness and savory flavors.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Vegetables

• Add sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Top your dish with sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the sweet sauce.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas or lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken for a fun twist. This makes a great handheld meal option.

As a Salad Topping

• Slice the chicken and use it as a topping on mixed greens. Drizzle with additional honey soy dressing for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

To achieve the perfect Honey Sesame Chicken, consider these essential tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality honey create the best flavor profile.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Ensure chicken is fully cooked but not overdone to maintain juiciness.
• Control Oil Temperature: Frying at the correct temperature ensures crispy chicken without excess oil absorption.
• Whisk Sauce Thoroughly: Properly whisking the sauce helps avoid lumps and ensures an even consistency.
• Let Sauce Cool Slightly: Allow sauce to cool before adding chicken; this helps it adhere better.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust sugar, vinegar, or soy sauce amounts to suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken

Complementing your Honey Sesame Chicken with the right side dishes enhances the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A classic choice that provides nutrients and balances out the sweetness of the chicken.

2. Fried Rice
   Flavorful fried rice loaded with veggies makes for a hearty addition alongside your main dish.

3. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables can add crunch and contrast to your meal.

4. Noodles
   Lo mein or chow mein noodles tossed in soy sauce pair beautifully with this sweet dish.

5. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the honey sauce.

6. Spring Rolls
   Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a refreshing bite that complements the flavors of honey sesame chicken.

7. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds texture and flavor.

8. Quinoa Pilaf
   Nutty quinoa pilaf provides a gluten-free alternative while still being filling and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Honey Sesame Chicken. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the batter prep: Not mixing the batter ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven coating on the chicken. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for a perfect crisp.

• Using too much oil: Overcrowding the frying pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in small batches to maintain the right temperature and texture.

• Ignoring cooking time: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Always check for doneness by cutting a piece open during frying.

• Not whisking the sauce: Failing to whisk continuously while heating the sauce can cause it to burn or thicken unevenly. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.

• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds and green onions can leave your dish looking bland. These add flavor and a pop of color, so don’t forget them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last 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; just label it with the date.

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: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Honey Sesame Chicken, here are some common questions answered.

What is Honey Sesame Chicken?

Honey Sesame Chicken is a delicious dish that features crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and sticky honey sauce, garnished with sesame seeds.

How do I make my Honey Sesame Chicken crispy?

To achieve optimal crispiness, ensure your batter is mixed well and fry in small batches at the correct oil temperature.

Can I customize my Honey Sesame Chicken?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition or adjust the sweetness by modifying honey amounts.

What should I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?

Serve this dish with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it according to your taste preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its sticky sweetness!