Name: Honey Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 large egg; ¼ cup soy sauce; ⅓ cup honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional); Neutral oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

I’m not exaggerating when I say this Honey Sesame Chicken is the kind of recipe that makes everyone at the table pause after the first bite. I’ve always had a soft spot for takeout-style dishes, and this one checks all the boxes: sweet, sticky, savory, and just the right amount of crispy. The golden bites of chicken coated in a glossy honey-soy glaze with hints of garlic and toasted sesame are absolutely addictive—and so easy to recreate at home.

I remember the first time I nailed the sauce—perfectly balanced between sweet and salty with a touch of tang—and I knew I’d never need to order it again. What makes it even better is that you don’t need any fancy ingredients, and the whole dish can be made in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m serving it over steamed rice or tossing it into a lunchbox with veggies, it’s always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Sesame Chicken

This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy chicken pieces and that luscious honey sesame glaze creates a harmony of texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it over noodles, rice, or even in lettuce wraps. If you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful alternative to takeout, this is your new go-to.

What Type of Chicken Works Best for Honey Sesame Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my top choice for this recipe—they’re naturally juicy, flavorful, and more forgiving when it comes to overcooking. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breast works just as well and still delivers great results when coated and cooked properly. The key is cutting the chicken into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly and stay tender inside while getting that perfect crispy coating on the outside.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with dietary restrictions or just using what’s in your fridge, this Honey Sesame Chicken is super adaptable. Here are a few swaps you can try:

Chicken Alternatives: Tofu or cauliflower can be used for a vegetarian version. Make sure to press tofu well or roast the cauliflower for best texture.
Flour/Cornstarch: Swap out cornstarch for arrowroot powder or potato starch for a similar crispy coating.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos if you need a gluten-free option.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can step in for honey if that’s what you have on hand—or to make it vegan.
Sesame Seeds: If you’re out, try crushed peanuts or omit them entirely. The dish will still be delicious.

Ingredients for This Honey Sesame Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Breasts
This is the heart of the dish—bite-sized pieces of chicken that become golden and crisp when coated and cooked properly. Thighs offer more juiciness, while breasts give a leaner result.

Cornstarch
Essential for creating that ultra-crispy texture on the outside of each chicken piece. It also helps the sauce cling beautifully once tossed.

Egg
Used to bind the cornstarch to the chicken and give the coating a bit of puff when cooked.

Soy Sauce
Adds deep umami flavor and a salty balance to the sweetness of the honey in the sauce.

Honey
The star of the glaze—this provides sweetness and that gorgeous sticky finish that defines the dish.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic brings warmth and aromatic depth to the sauce.

Rice Vinegar
Gives a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the honey and cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.

Sesame Oil
A little goes a long way here—it adds that unmistakable toasty sesame flavor to the sauce.

Sesame Seeds
Sprinkled over the finished dish, they add both texture and visual appeal.

Green Onions (optional)
Chopped green onions make a bright, fresh garnish that complements the sweet-savory flavor of the chicken.

Oil for Frying
A neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil is best for shallow frying the chicken to a crisp golden brown.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispier finish.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the egg. In another bowl, add the cornstarch. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then dredge it in cornstarch, making sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, turning as needed, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and a small drizzle of sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes. If you’d like it even thicker, you can dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.

Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Add the crispy chicken to the pan with the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Let it cook together for 1–2 minutes to fully meld the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using). Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or even in lettuce cups.

How Long to Cook the Honey Sesame Chicken

From start to finish, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes. Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes (cutting, coating the chicken, and prepping the sauce ingredients)
Cooking Time: 10–15 minutes (frying the chicken and simmering the sauce)

Each batch of chicken takes roughly 4–5 minutes to cook through, depending on size, and the sauce only needs a few minutes to thicken. It’s fast, efficient, and deeply satisfying.

Tips for Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Too many pieces at once will drop the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy instead of crispy.
Double-fry for extra crispiness. Let the chicken rest for a minute, then fry again quickly at high heat to lock in the crunch.
Use fresh garlic for the sauce. Jarred garlic won’t give you the same punchy flavor.
Warm the sauce before tossing with the chicken to ensure it coats evenly and sticks to every bite.
Drain on paper towels or a wire rack to remove excess oil without steaming the chicken.
Taste and tweak the sauce. Like it sweeter? Add a bit more honey. Need more bite? A splash of vinegar or a dash of chili flakes works wonders.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the cornstarch coating: It might be tempting to go straight to the pan, but without that layer of cornstarch, you won’t get the crispy texture that holds up to the sticky sauce.
Using too little oil when frying: Shallow frying works best with at least an inch of oil. Too little, and the chicken won’t cook evenly or crisp up properly.
Not letting the oil heat up fully: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the coating will absorb oil and turn soggy. Always test with a small piece first—it should sizzle immediately.
Pouring sauce over cold chicken: Always toss the chicken in warm sauce so the coating absorbs the glaze properly instead of it sliding off.
Overcrowding the pan: This causes the oil temp to drop and results in uneven cooking. Fry in small batches, even if it takes a bit longer.

What to Serve With Honey Sesame Chicken?

Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice

A soft, fragrant bed of rice soaks up the glossy honey sesame sauce beautifully.

Stir-Fried Vegetables

A quick mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas adds freshness and crunch to balance the sweetness of the dish.

Garlic Noodles

Slippery, savory garlic noodles are the perfect complement and soak up every bit of leftover sauce.

Lettuce Wraps

Spoon the chicken into butter lettuce cups for a fun and lighter twist on the meal.

Asian Slaw

A crisp cabbage-based slaw with a tangy sesame dressing adds texture and brightness.

Fried Rice

A flavorful egg fried rice with green onions makes the dish feel even more like a full takeout spread.

Cucumber Salad

Light and refreshing, this chilled salad brings a cooling contrast to the rich, sticky chicken.

Miso Soup

Simple and soothing, it’s a great way to round out the meal without overpowering the main dish.

Storage Instructions

Honey Sesame Chicken stores surprisingly well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken, but it’ll loosen up when reheated.
Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Use freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, or the chicken may lose its crispness.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. 1/4 of recipe)

Calories: 430
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 780mg
Cholesterol: 120mg
Serving Size: About 1 cup cooked chicken
Diet: Dairy-free
Method: Pan-fried
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to get the chicken crispy?

The secret is in the cornstarch coating and hot oil. Make sure the oil is properly heated before frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan. For even more crispiness, consider double-frying the chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, store the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat and combine just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.

Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely. You can bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, or use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes. While it won’t be as crispy as deep-fried, it’s a lighter option that still tastes great.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but it can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and ensuring your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well too. Just be careful not to overcook it since it’s leaner and can dry out more easily than thighs.

What vegetables go well in this dish?

Broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, or even bok choy make great additions. You can stir-fry them separately and serve alongside, or toss them in with the chicken and sauce.

Can I use bottled sesame sauce instead?

You can, but homemade sauce tastes much fresher and gives you control over sweetness and saltiness. Plus, it’s super easy to make.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet-savory flavor is a hit with kids. If you’re worried about garlic or vinegar being too strong, just reduce those slightly when making the sauce.

Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken is one of those magical meals that feels like takeout but tastes even better because it’s homemade. With crispy golden bites of chicken coated in a sticky, sweet-savory glaze, it’s pure comfort food with a punch of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or whipping up a weeknight dinner, this dish delivers every time—and once you try it, I promise it’ll become a regular in your rotation.