Easy Honey Sesame Chicken – Better Than Takeout in 30 Minutes

Craving crispy, sticky, and sweet sesame chicken without ordering takeout? This Easy Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is a weeknight-friendly, healthier version of your favorite Chinese-American dish—made at home in just 30 minutes! With tender chicken bites coated in a golden honey garlic sesame sauce, it’s perfect served over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried veggies for a balanced meal.

Skip the deep fryer—this recipe uses a light pan-fry method and a homemade sauce with pantry staples. It’s kid-approved, meal prep-friendly, and tastes just like your favorite restaurant version, only better.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy yet not deep-fried

• Sticky honey-garlic sesame glaze

• Faster than delivery – ready in 30 minutes

• Works for meal prep, dinner, or rice bowls

• Naturally dairy-free

• Easily made gluten-free with one simple swap

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Ingredients Overview

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cubed

• ⅓ cup cornstarch or arrowroot starch (for a crisp coating)

• 2 eggs, beaten (helps coating stick)

• Salt & pepper, to season

• Avocado oil or neutral oil, for pan-frying

For the Honey Sesame Sauce:

• ⅓ cup honey

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or use tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger (or ½ tsp ground)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, plus more for garnish

Optional: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a little kick.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes

• Season with salt and pepper

• Dip each piece into beaten egg, then dredge in cornstarch to coat

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat

2. Add chicken in a single layer (work in batches)

3. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy

4. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate while you make the sauce

Don’t overcrowd the pan or the chicken won’t crisp properly.

Step 3: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger

2. Pour into the skillet and bring to a simmer

3. Mix cornstarch with water, then stir into the sauce to thicken (1–2 minutes)

Step 4: Combine & Serve

• Return chicken to skillet

• Toss to coat evenly in the sauce

• Sprinkle with sesame seeds

• Serve hot over rice or vegetables

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Serving Ideas

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice

• Cauliflower rice for low-carb

• Stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, carrots)

• Noodles or rice bowls

• Garnish with green onions, cilantro, or lime for added freshness

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Variations & Substitutions

Make It Gluten-Free:

• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce

• Use arrowroot starch instead of cornstarch

Change the Protein:

• Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or tempeh

• Try thin-sliced beef strips or ground chicken

Add Veggies:

• Stir-fry bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini with the chicken

• Or steam separately and serve as a side

Spicy Version:

• Add sriracha, gochujang, or chili flakes to the sauce

• Top with sliced jalapeños for heat

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Nutrition & Health Notes (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

May vary slightly based on oil and sauce quantity used.

• Calories: ~380

• Protein: 32g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbs: 28g

• Sugar: 16g (mostly from honey)

This dish is high in protein and free of refined ingredients. Serve with steamed vegetables or greens to boost fiber and micronutrients.

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FAQs About Honey Sesame Chicken

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. It won’t be as crispy, but still delicious!

2. Can I air fry the chicken?

Definitely. Spray the coated chicken with oil and air fry at 390°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.

3. Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Yes! Store in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet to keep the texture or microwave gently.

4. Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add spice. It’s mild and sweet by default. Add chili flakes or sriracha if you like heat.

5. Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs stay juicier and are harder to overcook—perfect for this recipe.

6. Does the sauce stay thick?

Yes, once cooled slightly, it will thicken and coat the chicken well. If too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.

7. Can I freeze this?

You can freeze it, but the texture of the chicken may soften upon reheating. Best to store sauce separately and crisp fresh chicken before serving.

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