Name: Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken That Will Wow Your Family
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Flour; 1/2 cup Corn Starch (Aids in achieving a light, crispy texture.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Helps create a lighter batter.); 1 large Egg White (Binds the batter together.); 1/2 cup Water (Adjusts batter consistency.); 1 cup Vegetable Oil (Used for frying.); 1 pound Chicken Breasts (Cut into strips.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 2 tablespoons Canola Oil (Adds moisture and flavor.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Adds umami flavor.); 2 tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar (Provides tanginess.); 3 tablespoons Sugar (Can be reduced with honey.); 1/4 cup Honey (Main sweetener.); 1 tablespoon Corn Starch (Thickens the sauce.); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Fresh garnish.); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (Adds crunch.)

The warm smell of honey and sesame wafts through my kitchen, transporting me to the bustling streets of my favorite Asian markets. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken, a delicious family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a weeknight staple. With its crispy, golden-brown chicken strips enveloped in a sticky, sweet glaze, this is comfort food at its finest—minus the takeout guilt! Enjoying this meal means you can indulge in something delightful without the additives and MSG you find in fast food. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Curious about how you can whip up this special dish? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Honey Sesame Chicken So Irresistible?

Flavorful Fusion: The blend of honey and soy sauce creates a sweet yet savory sauce that boosts any meal.

Crispy Delight: Thanks to the unique batter with corn starch and baking powder, each bite delivers a pleasing crunch, reminiscent of your favorite takeout.

Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied. It’s a perfect way to encourage family dinners!

Quick & Easy: Prepared in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something homemade and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthier Choice: Preparing this at home means you control the ingredients—no MSG or undesired additives, just wholesome goodness. Pair it with some steamed veggies or serve it over jasmine rice for a complete meal!

Feeling inspired? You might also enjoy making Crack Chicken Gnocchi or try a delightful twist with Jamaican Curry Chicken.

Honey Sesame Chicken Ingredients

• Perfect for your next family dinner!

For the Batter

Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; ensure the oil is hot enough for crispy texture.
Chicken Breasts – The main protein source; cut into strips for even cooking.
Flour – Provides the batter’s base for that crispy coating.
Corn Starch – Aids in achieving a light, crispy texture.
Baking Powder – Helps create a lighter batter that’s still crunchy.
Egg White – Binds the batter together, ensuring a crispy coating.
Water – Adjusts batter consistency for optimal coating.
Canola Oil – Used in the batter for added moisture and flavor.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the batter.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Adds umami and depth, key in any Honey Sesame Chicken dish.
Rice Wine Vinegar – Offers tanginess to beautifully balance the sweetness.
Sugar – Sweetens the sauce; consider reducing or replacing with more honey.
Honey – The main sweetener in the sauce, providing that delightful sticky texture.
Additional Corn Starch – Thickens the sauce for a luscious glaze.

For Garnish

Green Onions – Fresh garnish for a pop of color and slight sharpness.
Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and enhances flavor, making it visually appealing.

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get cooking and create this delightful Honey Sesame Chicken for your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a glass bowl, combine the flour, corn starch, baking powder, egg white, and water to create a smooth batter. The mixture should be thick yet pourable—resembling pancake batter. This will give your Honey Sesame Chicken that delightful crispy coating.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Add the chicken strips to the batter, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Use your hands or a fork to mix them gently, allowing the batter to cling to the chicken. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crunch when frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it’s ready for frying. A proper temperature ensures your Honey Sesame Chicken will achieve that desirable golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown. Check for doneness—chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Drain the Chicken
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried chicken strips from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will absorb any excess oil, keeping your Honey Sesame Chicken light and crispy. Let them rest for a few minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Step 6: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, honey, corn starch, and a splash of water. This mixture will create the sticky and sweet sauce that perfectly coats your chicken. Ensure the corn starch is well dissolved to prevent clumping in the sauce.

Step 7: Heat the Sauce
Heat a frying pan over low heat and pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Whisk continuously until the ingredients are well combined and start to warm up. This gentle heat encourages the flavors to meld, making for a luscious sauce for your Honey Sesame Chicken.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce
Gradually increase the heat to medium while continuing to whisk until the sauce comes to a gentle boil. It should thicken noticeably within 2-3 minutes. Keeping an eye on the sauce prevents it from burning, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish for your dish.

Step 9: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken strips into the pan. Toss them gently in the sauce until every piece is well coated. The sticky glaze clinging to the crispy chicken creates the beloved flavor profile of Honey Sesame Chicken.

Step 10: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the coated Honey Sesame Chicken to a serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and a pop of color. This dish is best served hot, leaving your family eager to dig in!

Honey Sesame Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe; your delicious Honey Sesame Chicken can adapt to fit your lifestyle and palate!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken breasts with tofu, marinating and frying until golden for a plant-based delight. It soaks up that sticky sauce beautifully!
Add Veggies: Incorporate mixed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for a colorful, nutritious meal. Toss them into the sticky sauce for added flavor and texture.
Quinoa Swap: Replace jasmine rice with quinoa for a whole grain alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra protein. This twist transforms your dish into a powerhouse of nutrients!
Honey Alternatives: For a lower-calorie option, try using agave syrup or a sugar substitute to sweeten the sauce. This way, you still enjoy the sweetness without the added calories.
Add Heat: Want to spice things up? Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a delightful kick. Balance the sweetness with a hint of heat!
Nutty Flavor: Toasted sesame oil as a finishing touch can enhance the overall flavor profile, giving a deeper, richer taste. The oil makes each bite even more decadent.
Crispy Cauliflower: Use battered and fried cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a wonderful, gluten-free alternative. Paired with sauce, it becomes a delightful and satisfying dish.

If you’re craving more delectable chicken options, explore the mouthwatering Cheesy Garlic Chicken or treat yourself to the creamy goodness of Smothered Chicken Rice.

What to Serve with Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken?

Elevate your dinner with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of this sticky, sweet dish.

Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy rice absorbs the sweet sauce, making each bite a comforting experience. It’s a classic pairing that balances flavors wonderfully.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and crunchy, broccoli adds freshness and vibrant color to your plate. Its slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the sweet chicken.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy blend of cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy sesame vinaigrette adds a refreshing twist and lightness to the meal. It’s a delightful palate cleanser.
Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic bring a garlicky punch that complements the sweet and savory notes of the chicken. Their crisp texture plays well against the tender chicken.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots caramelized in honey echo the sweetness of the chicken while adding a pop of color and nutrition to your meal.
Coconut Milk Soup: A light, fragrant soup made with coconut milk and lime offers a tropical flavor profile that beautifully contrasts the richness of Honey Sesame Chicken.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and slightly tangy, this salad serves as a bright, crunchy side that counterbalances the dish’s richness. It enhances the meal with a burst of freshness.
Sparkling Water with Lime: This bubbly drink is a refreshing palate cleanser between bites, balancing the richness of the meal while also keeping things light and hydrating.

Find the perfect pairing that suits your taste and enjoy a homemade feast that warms hearts and brings smiles around the dining table!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken strips are fantastic for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the batter and store it in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavor and tenderness. Additionally, prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply heat the sauce in a pan and fry the marinated chicken strips until golden brown. This method not only maintains the crispiness of the chicken but allows for a quick, delicious dinner—just as delightful as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Honey Sesame Chicken

Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at 350°F for perfectly crispy chicken. If it’s too cool, your chicken will absorb oil and become soggy.
Don’t Rush the Coating: Ensure each chicken strip is thoroughly coated in the batter. This prevents the batter from falling off during frying and helps achieve that delightful crunch.
Whisk Sauce Constantly: While heating the sauce, whisk constantly to avoid lumps from the corn starch. This ensures a silky smooth glaze that clings beautifully to your Honey Sesame Chicken.
Batch Frying: Fry chicken in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking, resulting in less crispy chicken.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste the sauce before combining it with the chicken. Adjust sweetness or soy sauce to your preference to achieve that perfect balance in your Honey Sesame Chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Sesame Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness and flavor, ensure it is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezer: You can freeze Honey Sesame Chicken for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, omitting any garnishes. Reheat from frozen for best results.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to help maintain that delicious crispy coating. For the microwave, heat in short intervals to avoid sogginess.

Cooking Tip: Always check the chicken’s temperature (165°F) if reheating from frozen to ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.

Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Honey Sesame Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain that juicy texture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic substitute!

How should I store leftover Honey Sesame Chicken?
Store any leftover Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing it to preserve its freshness. This method helps keep your dish delicious for your next meal!

Can Honey Sesame Chicken be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze Honey Sesame Chicken for up to 2 months. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container without any garnishes. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat it from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, which helps keep that irresistible crispy texture.

What can I do if my batter isn’t coating the chicken well?
If your batter isn’t adhering nicely, there might be a few reasons. Ensure your chicken is dry before coating—excess moisture can prevent the batter from sticking. You could add a little more corn starch to the batter for better cling. If you’re still having trouble, you might want to try letting the coated chicken sit for a few minutes before frying, as this can sometimes help the flour adhere better.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains common allergens such as soy (in soy sauce) and wheat (in flour). If you’re cooking for someone with gluten allergies, consider using gluten-free alternatives for soy sauce and flour. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safe consumption for those with dietary restrictions!