Name: Honey Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp cornstarch (for coating); 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking); ¼ cup honey; 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free); 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp fresh ginger (minced (or ¼ tsp ground ginger)); 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted); Green onions (chopped, for garnish (optional)); Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Love the delicious, sticky, and slightly tangy flavors of Honey Sesame Chicken? You’re not alone!

This classic dish brings together the perfect balance of sweet honey and nutty sesame with a hint of garlic for a meal that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or impressing guests, this Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is bound to become a favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make it perfectly every time, with tips to customize, side pairing ideas, and more!

Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken

This recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples that come together for an unforgettable dish.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and creates a sticky glaze.
Soy Sauce: Balances the sweetness with a savory depth.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced, these ingredients add warmth and a slight kick.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add nuttiness and a bit of crunch.
Cornstarch: For coating the chicken, giving it a crispy texture.
Optional Add-Ons: Add chopped green onions for color or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Ingredient Tip: Use raw, high-quality honey to get the best natural sweetness and thickness in the sauce. Fresh chicken works better than frozen for the ideal texture.

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken

Here’s a simple, step-by-step process to make this dish just right:

Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Toss chicken pieces in a light coating of cornstarch, which will help give it a crisp texture when cooked.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add a bit of oil.
- Add chicken in batches (if necessary) and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a splash of water.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and let it simmer until it begins to thicken slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the honey sesame sauce.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, stirring to mix evenly.
Serve and Garnish:
- Garnish with green onions or additional sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice or with your favorite side.

Quick Tip: Be careful not to overcook the sauce! It should be thick enough to coat the chicken but not overly sticky.

Ways to Customize Your Honey Sesame Chicken

One of the best things about this Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is how easy it is to tailor to different tastes and dietary needs!

Make it Healthier: Swap out some of the honey for a sugar-free sweetener or reduce the amount for a less sweet version.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Customizable Tip: You can also add steamed broccoli or snap peas to the skillet for a more veggie-packed meal!

Perfect Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken

Honey Sesame Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

Classic White Rice: Simple steamed rice complements the rich, sticky sauce perfectly.
Fried Rice: A step up from plain rice, with added vegetables for texture.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
Low-Carb Options: Try cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter option.

Side Tip: Asian-style coleslaw or a cucumber salad can add freshness and balance out the sweetness.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

This recipe is also great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it safely and keep it delicious for leftovers.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge.
Freezing: You can freeze Honey Sesame Chicken for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Meal Prep Idea: Make a double batch and portion it with rice in containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

This dish offers a mix of protein, healthy fats, and a bit of natural sweetness from honey.

Calories and Macronutrients: A typical serving contains around 300–400 calories, with a balance of protein, fats, and carbs.
Nutritional Benefits: Chicken provides lean protein, honey brings antioxidants, and sesame seeds are a great source of healthy fats.
Balanced Meal Tips: Pair with fiber-rich sides, like steamed veggies or whole grains, to create a balanced, nutritious meal.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and add a bit more flavor and tenderness compared to chicken breasts.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce, then store separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop and combine.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas make great additions. Add them to the skillet when you add the sauce to cook them slightly.