Craving a delicious and easy Asian dinner recipe? This Honey Sesame Chicken delivers tender chicken in a sweet and savory glaze, perfect for a weeknight meal. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how much flavor it packs.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work, but cooking time may vary.
- Honey: Maple syrup can be a good alternative for a slightly different flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium version if preferred. Tamari works for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame Oil: Essential for that classic nutty flavor.
- Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is best, but ground versions can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Honey Sesame Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Garnish (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, whisk, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. This step helps create a nice crust and thickens the sauce later.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Whisk the Honey Sesame Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps from the cornstarch.
4. Simmer the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet you cooked the chicken in. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened sauce. Toss the chicken gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the delicious honey sesame glaze. Cook for another minute to heat through.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Honey Sesame Chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired. Serve immediately with rice or noodles for a complete asian dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers to the skillet with the chicken for added vegetables.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve over quinoa or brown rice for a healthier twist.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, ensure the chicken is fully thawed and patted dry before cutting and cooking.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Make sure you whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into the cold liquids before heating. If it’s still too thin, you can make a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch and a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the simmering sauce.
What can I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?
White rice, brown rice, noodles, steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, or a simple side salad are all great options.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is sweet and savory. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the sauce ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Whisk again before using.