Go Back

Honey Sesame Chicken

Tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy honey sesame sauce, combining sweet, nutty, and savory flavors in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Asian Inspired
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ginger grated or minced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions sliced for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Whisk or fork
  • tongs or wooden spoon
  • Meat thermometer (optional)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • small bowl for sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, heating until shimmering.
  4. Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the hot skillet and cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Stir and flip the chicken, then cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until all sides are browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Pour the sauce over the chicken, stir to coat evenly, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce reduces by one-third.
  7. If desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for an additional 1 minute until the sauce thickens.
  8. Toast sesame seeds in a small dry pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant, then sprinkle over the chicken with sliced green onions and serve.

Notes

Toast sesame seeds separately for best flavor and serve the chicken over rice or noodles.