Craving takeout but want to save some cash? My Better Than Takeout Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is easy, quick, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and a few key tips, you can whip up a dish that’s just as delicious as your favorite restaurant. I’ll guide you step-by-step from prep to plate, so you can enjoy this tasty meal any night of the week. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Core Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (toasted)
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Cooked white rice or quinoa (for serving)
Quantity & Measurement
– For 4 servings, use the above amounts.
– For 2 servings, cut each ingredient in half.
– For 6 servings, multiply each ingredient by 1.5.
Recommended Cooking Tools
– Large mixing bowl for preparing chicken
– Large skillet or wok for frying
– Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
– Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
– Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
– Serving plates for a beautiful presentation
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle cornstarch over the chicken. Toss until each piece is well coated. This step is key for a crispy texture. The cornstarch helps seal in moisture and creates a crunchy crust when fried.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken in a single layer. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. This helps achieve a perfect golden brown color. Flip the pieces occasionally to cook them evenly. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Making the Honey Sesame Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Stir well to mix the ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the crispy chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss the chicken in the honey sesame sauce. Make sure all pieces are coated and heated through. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for crunch. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Substitutions
– Soy Sauce Alternatives: If you need a soy sauce swap, use coconut aminos. It offers a similar flavor without the soy.
– Honey Alternatives: For those avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave nectar works well. They add sweetness and keep the dish tasty.
– Vegetarian Options: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Coat them in cornstarch for crunch.
– Gluten-Free Options: Replace soy sauce with tamari. It’s gluten-free and has a rich taste.
Cooking Techniques
– Crispiness Tips: To get your chicken extra crispy, coat it well in cornstarch. Fry in hot oil without crowding the pan. This helps it brown evenly.
– Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water. Stir well to combine.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing with Rice or Quinoa: Serve this dish over white rice or fluffy quinoa. Both soak up the sauce nicely.
– Plating Ideas: Use a large bowl for an appealing look. Drizzle extra sauce on top and sprinkle sesame seeds. Finish with green onions for color and freshness.
Variations
Honey Sesame Chicken with Vegetables
You can add mixed vegetables to your honey sesame chicken for extra nutrition. This not only boosts the meal’s health benefits but also adds color and texture. Some great vegetable combinations include:
– Bell peppers
– Broccoli
– Snow peas
– Carrots
Simply chop the veggies and stir-fry them in the skillet before adding the sauce. Cook until they are tender but still crisp. Then, toss in the chicken and sauce for a delicious mix.
Spicy Version
If you like heat, you can make a spicy version of this dish. Add chili sauce or flakes to the sauce mix. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you keep a good balance of sweetness and spice. You might want to reduce the honey a bit if you prefer less sweetness.
Different Proteins
You can switch up proteins for this recipe too. Tofu and shrimp work well as alternatives. If using tofu, press it to remove excess water. Then, cut it into cubes and fry until golden. For shrimp, cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose, but always make sure it’s fully cooked.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your honey sesame chicken, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep the chicken fresh. It lasts in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Before storing, let it cool down to room temperature. This prevents moisture buildup.
Freezing Honey Sesame Chicken
Freezing is a great way to save leftovers. Start by letting the chicken cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag. Label it with the date and freeze it. Your honey sesame chicken can stay good for up to 3 months.
When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Methods
You can reheat honey sesame chicken on the stove or in the microwave. For the stove, heat a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to keep it moist. Cook for a few minutes until hot.
In the microwave, place the chicken in a bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check the chicken each time. To keep the chicken crispy while reheating, avoid using the microwave. Use the stove for the best texture instead.
FAQs
How to make Honey Sesame Chicken healthier?
To make Honey Sesame Chicken healthier, try these tips:
– Use skinless chicken thighs for less fat.
– Substitute honey with a sugar-free syrup.
– Replace soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce.
– Add more veggies like broccoli or bell peppers.
– Serve over brown rice instead of white rice.
These changes can cut calories and sugar while keeping flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Honey Sesame Chicken ahead of time. Here are some ideas:
– Cook the chicken and sauce separately.
– Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
– Reheat the chicken before adding the sauce.
– This way, you can enjoy it fresh any day.
What to serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?
Pair Honey Sesame Chicken with these side dishes:
– Steamed broccoli adds nutrition.
– Fried rice gives a tasty twist.
– Quinoa is a great grain option.
– A simple cucumber salad adds crunch.
These sides complete your meal for a delightful experience.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. Follow these steps:
– Coat the chicken with cornstarch.
– Sear chicken in a skillet for best texture.
– Add chicken to the slow cooker with sauce ingredients.
– Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
This method makes the chicken tender and full of flavor.
This blog post covered the essential ingredients and steps for making Honey Sesame Chicken. We explored the right measurements, tools, and techniques for the crispiest chicken. I shared tips on customizing the dish with different ingredients and storing leftovers effectively.
In closing, by following these guidelines, you can create a tasty meal that impresses everyone. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making this dish your own.
