Crispy and sticky honey sesame chicken is a mouthwatering dish that balances the perfect combination of crispy chicken and a sweet, savory sauce. The crispy chicken is coated in a sticky glaze made from honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, offering a satisfying crunch on the outside and a burst of flavor on the inside. This dish is ideal for a family dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or even a special occasion. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions as a garnish enhances the dish both in flavor and presentation.

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining the sweetness of honey with the umami of soy sauce and the rich, toasty flavor of sesame oil. It’s the perfect balance of textures, with crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sticky sauce. Served over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, this dish makes a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on takeout-style chicken or want to impress your guests with a delicious homemade dish, crispy and sticky honey sesame chicken won’t disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Tender

The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite.

2. Sweet and Savory Sauce

The combination of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a flavorful sauce that is both sweet and savory, perfectly complementing the crispy chicken.

3. Easy to Make

This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it a quick and simple meal to prepare in under 30 minutes.

4. Customizable Garnishes

The sesame seeds and green onions add a burst of flavor and color, but feel free to add chili flakes, cilantro, or even cashews for extra texture and taste.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides, such as rice or vegetables.

Ingredients

Chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Cornstarch
Eggs (beaten)
Salt and pepper
Soy sauce
Honey
Ketchup
Garlic (minced)
Sesame oil
Water
Cornstarch (mixed with water)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

Add Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the honey sesame sauce.
Switch the Protein: While chicken breast is the primary choice, you can use chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a different protein option.
Use Maple Syrup: If you don’t have honey, you can swap it for maple syrup for a different sweet flavor that still balances the savory soy sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with crispy tofu or a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, for a vegetarian version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper. Then, coat each piece in cornstarch, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 2: Dip and Fry the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated. Heat oil in a pan or wok and fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Once fried, remove the chicken from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate pan, combine the soy sauce, honey, ketchup, minced garlic, sesame oil, and water. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Toss the fried chicken pieces in the thickened sauce, ensuring that each piece is well coated in the sticky, glossy glaze.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the coated chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Fry in Batches: To ensure the chicken gets crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. Fry the chicken in batches if needed.
Use a High Smoke Point Oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying the chicken.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken while frying; 3-4 minutes per side should be sufficient to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
Make the Sauce Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just heat it up before tossing the chicken in.

How to Serve

Crispy and sticky honey sesame chicken is best served hot, fresh out of the pan. Serve it over steamed rice or with sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also pair it with a simple salad or some stir-fried greens for an added crunch. The sweet and savory sauce complements any side dish, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover crispy and sticky honey sesame chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the chicken may lose some of its crispiness, it will still be delicious when reheated.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken after it’s been cooked. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or stovetop for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small splash of water or chicken broth to help keep the sauce from drying out and allow the chicken to regain some crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work just as well. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, heat the chicken in the sauce and re-crisp it in a hot skillet.

3. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, peanut oil, or any other oil with a high smoke point for frying the chicken.

4. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or some chopped chili peppers to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.

5. Can I substitute the ketchup in the sauce?

Yes, if you don’t have ketchup, you can substitute it with hoisin sauce or a little bit of tomato paste mixed with a bit of water.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

7. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before coating and frying.

8. How do I keep the chicken crispy?

To keep the chicken crispy, avoid adding it to the sauce too early. Toss it in the sauce right before serving, so it doesn’t lose its crunch.

9. Can I make this without sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or another neutral oil, but the flavor won’t be as authentic.

10. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli can be added to the sauce or served alongside the chicken for a more balanced meal.

Conclusion

Crispy and sticky honey sesame chicken is the ultimate combination of crispy texture and sweet, savory flavors. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying crunch. The sticky glaze and garnishes add a delightful finishing touch, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.