Honey Sesame Chicken
Honey Sesame Chicken is a quick and delicious dish that captures the essence of sweet and savory flavors in every bite. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight when I wanted to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The unique combination of honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a glaze that perfectly coats crispy chicken pieces, making each serving a delightful experience. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend get-together, this dish never fails to impress and can become a staple in your meal rotation.
Reasons to try it
There are countless reasons to bring Honey Sesame Chicken to your dinner table. For starters, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want to serve something special. It takes less than 30 minutes to make, so you can get a delicious meal on the table quickly.
Imagine the joy on your family’s faces as they savor the crispy texture of the chicken alongside the sticky, sweet sauce. It’s also budget-friendly, utilizing ingredients you probably already have on hand. Plus, this dish is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, making it kid-approved and enjoyable for all ages.
"This Honey Sesame Chicken has become a family favorite! Super easy to make and tastes just like takeout!" – A satisfied home cook.
Preparing Honey Sesame Chicken
Making Honey Sesame Chicken is straightforward and highly rewarding. You’ll start by seasoning the chicken and coating it with cornstarch for that extra crispiness. After browning the chicken bits, you’ll whip up the delicious sauce that binds everything together. Finally, toss the chicken back into the skillet with the sweet and savory sauce, and you’re ready to eat!
What you’ll need
To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Coat them evenly with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and gently stir to combine.
- Transfer the Honey Sesame Chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Best ways to enjoy it
Honey Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with fluffy steamed rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce, or opt for a fresh side salad to balance the richness. You could also serve it alongside some sautéed broccoli or snap peas for a burst of color and nutrition. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite sides!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover Honey Sesame Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the chicken’s texture. You can also freeze any extras; just ensure that the dish is completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It should stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra crispiness, double fry the chicken pieces briefly after coating them in cornstarch.
- Letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for a short while before serving can enhance the flavors even more.
- Adjust the sweetness by decreasing or increasing the honey and sugar based on your preference.
Creative twists
Feel like trying something new? Here are a few variations you can explore:
- Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots when cooking the chicken for an added crunch.
- Make it spicy: Incorporate a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time and cook time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is roughly 15-20 minutes, making it a quick meal overall.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine, but keep in mind that they may require a shorter cooking time.
How should I store leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool the dish before freezing!
With this fantastic recipe, your journey into the delicious world of Honey Sesame Chicken is sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy crafting this quick, delightful dish!
Honey Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Coat them evenly with cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and gently stir to combine.
- Transfer the Honey Sesame Chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
