Honey Sesame Chicken
Honey Sesame Chicken features tender chicken coated in a crisp golden crust.The chicken is tossed in a glossy sauce made with honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil.Fresh garlic and ginger add aromatic depth to the sweet and savory glaze.Rice vinegar provides a bright tang that balances the honey.Toasted sesame seeds add nuttiness and a satisfying finishing crunch.Serve this delicious chicken with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying
For the Honey Sesame Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce, optional
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, optional
- Thinly sliced red chili, optional
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.Add soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, garlic powder, and white pepper.Toss thoroughly and allow the chicken to marinate for approximately 15 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and toss until each piece is lightly and evenly coated.
- Heat approximately 2 inches of neutral oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry for approximately 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and completely cooked.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, and cornstarch.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet.
- Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
- Avoid cooking the chicken in the sauce for too long, as the coating can lose its crispness.
- Add fresh chili or cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicy: They are particularly forgiving when fried.
- Chicken breast also works: Cut it into evenly sized pieces to prevent overcooking.
- Cornstarch creates crispiness: It gives the chicken its characteristic crunchy coating.
- Don't overcrowd the oil: Cook the chicken in batches.
- Use toasted sesame oil: A small amount adds tremendous flavor.
- Watch the honey sauce: Honey can burn if cooked over excessive heat.
- Add sesame seeds at the end: This preserves their texture and nutty flavor.
- Serve immediately: The chicken is crispiest right after being glazed.