Honey Sesame Chicken

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Crispy chicken bites glazed in a sticky, sweet sesame sauce make Honey Sesame Chicken a weeknight winner and a weekend favorite. Every bite is golden and crunchy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, wrapped in a silky honey glaze that clings perfectly. This dish captures the irresistible balance of sweet and savory with a mild kick that keeps you going back for more.

Inspired by popular Asian-American takeout, this homemade version tastes even better because you control the quality of ingredients and the level of sweetness. It’s quick to whip up, looks restaurant-worthy, and best of all, it keeps that delicious crunch until the last bite.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey Sesame Chicken is the type of dish that satisfies both the craving for something comforting and something exciting. It’s incredibly flavorful with a golden crust and a glaze that adds just the right amount of stickiness and shine. Unlike overly sugary versions, this recipe brings a mellow sweetness balanced by soy and garlic. Plus, it’s easy to pair with rice, veggies, or even stuff into lettuce wraps.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers.

What Cut of Chicken Works Best for Honey Sesame Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the top choice for this recipe. They stay juicy and are more forgiving than breast meat, especially when fried. That said, if you prefer a leaner option, chicken breast can work too—just make sure not to overcook it. The key is to cut the chicken into even-sized pieces so they cook evenly and crisp up perfectly.

Ingredients for the Honey Sesame Chicken

This flavorful dish comes together with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a key role in creating that iconic sticky, crispy, and savory-sweet bite.

• Boneless chicken thighs
• Cornstarch
• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Honey
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Sesame seeds
• Green onions
• Vegetable oil

The chicken thighs provide the meaty base. Cornstarch ensures a crisp crust when fried. Soy sauce, garlic, and ginger lay the foundation for a deeply savory flavor. Honey and rice vinegar balance sweet and tangy, while sesame oil and seeds give that signature nutty finish. Don’t skip the green onions—they add freshness and color to the dish.

How To Make the Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss them with cornstarch until each piece is well coated. This coating helps create that signature crispy exterior.

Step 2: Fry Until Golden

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Each batch should take about 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Simmer over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Toss and Glaze

Add the crispy chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Let it simmer for a minute so the glaze clings nicely to each piece.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or in lettuce cups for a lighter version.

Best Tips for Serving and Storing Honey Sesame Chicken

This recipe yields enough for 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family meal or a small dinner party. To keep the chicken crisp, serve it immediately after tossing in the glaze. If you’re making it ahead, store the fried chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine right before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

What to Serve With Honey Sesame Chicken?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Light, fragrant, and perfect for soaking up that glossy sauce.

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Keep it classic by serving alongside Easy Chicken Fried Rice for a double chicken feast.

Crispy Chinese Egg Rolls

Add some crunch with Crispy and Delicious Easy Chinese Egg Rolls that pair beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.

Stir-Fried Broccoli or Snow Peas

For a veggie-forward balance, quick stir-fried greens with garlic are unbeatable.

Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

Feeling fusion? Try it with Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a creamy twist.

Cucumber Salad

Fresh, crunchy, and tangy—a refreshing contrast to the sticky glaze.

Sesame Noodles

Serve cold or warm, these noodles complement the flavor profile perfectly.

Lettuce Wraps

Scoop the chicken into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb bite.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Honey Sesame Chicken, you’ll definitely want to check out some of our other savory and satisfying chicken dishes:

• BBQ Chicken Pizza for smoky, cheesy goodness.
• Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry for a zesty and wholesome plate.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice when you want comfort food in a bowl.
• Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken for a creamy, rich take on a classic.
• Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you’re craving bold, slurp-worthy spice.

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Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go extra crispy or lighten it up in lettuce cups? Did you tweak the glaze? I’d love to hear your twist on it!

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Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken brings together crispy fried chicken and a rich, sticky sauce that bursts with flavor. It’s everything you love about takeout but made better at home. Quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is one to keep in your weekly rotation. Whether served with rice or wrapped in fresh greens, it’s bound to be a hit every single time.

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