This recipe takes the classic honey garlic chicken and elevates it with a rich sesame flavor profile. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. We'll cover everything from prepping the chicken to achieving that perfect glossy, sticky sauce. Get ready to experience a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and subtly nutty flavors!
What Makes This Sesame Honey Chicken Recipe Special?
This isn't your average honey chicken recipe. We've meticulously crafted a balance of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and the fragrant nuttiness of sesame oil and seeds. The double-coating process ensures a perfectly crispy exterior, while the quick marinade guarantees tender and juicy chicken. This recipe is also incredibly versatile; you can adjust the spice level to your liking and serve it with various sides.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (or breasts, but thighs stay juicier)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
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For the Sesame Honey Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds, plus extra for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Marinate (Optional but Recommended): In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator) for extra tender and flavorful chicken.
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Prepare the Dry Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Coat the Chicken: Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the honey, remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water), ginger, and garlic.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and becomes glossy.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately over rice, noodles, or with your favorite vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they tend to dry out more easily. Be sure not to overcook them. Reducing the cooking time slightly might be necessary.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat. You could also use a chili garlic sauce instead of some of the soy sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently over medium heat.
What are some good side dishes to serve with sesame honey chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, carrots, peppers), egg noodles, or even a simple green salad.
Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Then, toss it in the sauce as directed. The chicken might not be as crispy as pan-fried, but it will still be delicious.
This Sesame Honey Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple yet sophisticated flavors make it a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
