As the aroma of sizzling chicken wafts through your kitchen, you know dinner is about to impress. This Sesame Chicken recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a glossy, sweet-savory sauce that takes only 20 minutes to whip up. Its simplicity and delightful flavor make it a go-to weeknight meal.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want to serve something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge, so it’s ready when you are.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chicken turns golden brown, creating a satisfying texture.
- The sauce thickens beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated in flavor.
- It’s a quick meal, ready in under 30 minutes.
- With sesame seeds and green onions, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious dish.
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
Sesame oil can be replaced with vegetable oil for a milder taste.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Honey: maple syrup for a vegan option
- Soy sauce: tamari for gluten-free
- Corstarch: arrowroot powder as a thickener
- Chicken: tofu for a vegetarian alternative
How to Make It
Follow these straightforward steps to create your Sesame Chicken.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water to create the sauce.
Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown.
Pour the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
Thicken the Sauce
Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve the Dish
Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, due to sauce texture changes.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the skillet is hot for a perfect sear on the chicken.
- Stir constantly when adding the sauce to prevent clumping.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to your taste.
- Garnish just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a filling meal.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Ideal for a family dinner or a quick meal prep option.
