The Honey Sesame Chicken is a delicious combination of tender chicken coated in a sweet, slightly tangy sesame sauce. The crunch from the sesame seeds adds texture, while the green onions provide a pop of color and freshness. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also flavorful enough for a special dinner. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions elevates the presentation, turning this simple dish into a restaurant-worthy meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup water
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water. If you’d like the sauce thicker, mix in cornstarch.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the sesame seeds and red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to combine.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Honey Sesame Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Honey Sesame Chicken is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both sweet and savory. In just 25 minutes, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. The combination of tender, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a thick, honey-infused sesame sauce is irresistible. This dish brings the perfect balance of sweetness from the honey, tang from the rice vinegar, and richness from the sesame oil, making it a well-rounded meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. While it’s fantastic on its own, you can also serve it with a variety of sides such as steamed jasmine rice, sautéed vegetables, or even a side of crispy fried rice. The sesame seeds provide a satisfying crunch, while the green onions offer a fresh, slightly sharp contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves Asian-inspired cuisine, as it brings all the familiar flavors to the table in a simple, easy-to-make format.
Customizing the Recipe
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your personal tastes or dietary preferences. If you’re looking to make it a little spicier, you can increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce. For those following a gluten-free diet, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this Honey Sesame Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an easy dish to add to your weekly meal rotation.
A Versatile and Customizable Dish
One of the best things about Honey Sesame Chicken is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes or incorporating chili paste for extra heat. For a lighter version, serve the chicken with a side of sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas instead of rice. You can also make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Honey Sesame Chicken is not only delicious when freshly made, but it also works great for meal prep. The dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal that’s just as tasty the next day. For those on the go, this recipe is also ideal for packing in lunch boxes or taking to work.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.
- Flavorsome: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering, balanced sauce.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Great for Meal Prep: Ideal for storing and enjoying throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your Honey Sesame Chicken with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. The sauce also works beautifully with noodles—try it with soba noodles or rice noodles for a satisfying twist. You can even serve it with roasted vegetables, like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini, to add a healthy touch to the dish.
Conclusion
Honey Sesame Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines sweet and savory elements, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal in under 30 minutes. The dish is versatile, customizable to your taste, and great for meal prep. Whether served with rice, noodles, or vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it fresh or as leftovers for a quick, delicious meal throughout the week.