If you’re craving a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, look no further than Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!). This recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken pieces coated in a luscious honey sesame sauce that’s absolutely addictive. It’s a delightful homemade version that outshines restaurant orders with fresh ingredients and a sauce that clings to every bite. Once you try this, you’ll understand why it’s dubbed better than your usual takeout spot.

Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in achieving that irresistible flavor and texture you expect from a top-notch honey sesame chicken. Simple yet essential, these components come together harmoniously, making this dish both satisfying and memorable.

1 lb. boneless chicken breast: Cut into cubes or strips, it provides a tender and juicy base for the sauce to shine.
Oil for deep-frying: Vital for crisping the chicken to golden perfection, delivering that coveted crunchy exterior.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a fragrant aroma that enhances the sauce’s depth.
Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a nutty crunch and beautiful garnish to finish the dish.
1 egg white: Contributes to the batter’s light, airy texture ensuring a crisp fry.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base of the batter for the chicken’s crispy coating.
1/4 cup cornstarch: Helps produce the signature crunch in the batter by reducing gluten formation.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the batter a subtle lift and crispness during frying.
1/2 cup ice cold water: Keeps the batter light and prevents premature batter thickening.
1 tablespoon oil (for sauce): Used to gently fry the garlic and incorporate flavors evenly.
Pinch of salt: Enhances the taste throughout the dish without overpowering.
1/3 cup pure honey: The star of the sauce, delivering natural sweetness and a glossy finish.
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a slight tang, brightening the sauce.
1/2 tablespoon ketchup: Adds subtle depth and hints of tomato richness to the sauce.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a toasty, authentic sesame flavor that’s unmistakable.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for sauce): Thickens the sauce to that perfect clingy consistency.
1/2 cup water (for sauce): Dilutes and balances the sauce to keep it smooth and pourable.
1 teaspoon salt (for sauce): Completes the seasoning, ensuring all flavors pop just right.

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!)

Step 1: Prepare the Frying Batter and Chicken

Begin by whisking together egg white, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, ice cold water, a tablespoon of oil, and a pinch of salt until you have a smooth batter. The cold water is key for a light, crisp batter that fries up beautifully. Cut your chicken into 1-inch cubes or long strips, then fully coat each piece in the batter, ensuring every corner is covered. This step guarantees that every bite of your Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) has that perfect crunch.

Step 2: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

While the chicken sets, mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl: pure honey, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, cornstarch, water, and salt. This sauce will become your glossy, sticky coating that gives this Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) its signature flavor. Keep it handy as you get ready to cook.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken to Golden Crisp

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a pan over medium-high heat for frying. Once hot, carefully add the battered chicken pieces one at a time to avoid sticking. Spread the chicken evenly so pieces fry independently and crisp up without clumping. Fry until each piece is a gorgeous golden brown, then transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is what sets Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) apart with its satisfyingly crunchy texture.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Garlic

Transfer 2 tablespoons of the frying oil to a wok or skillet; briefly stir-fry the minced garlic until fragrant and golden. Pour in your pre-mixed honey sesame sauce and simmer gently until the sauce thickens to a luscious glaze. This quick step fills your kitchen with an intoxicating aroma, elevating your Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) to restaurant-quality status.

Step 5: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

Add your crispy fried chicken cubes directly to the simmering sauce. Toss well a few times to coat each piece evenly, ensuring the sauce clings to every crisp edge. Finish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top for that final nutty crunch. Serve immediately over steamed white rice or your favorite fried rice for an unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!)

Garnishes

To bring out the full beauty and texture of your Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!), toasted sesame seeds are a must—they add a nutty snap and visual appeal. Freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a fresh, vibrant kick that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice to absorb all that glorious sauce. For a heartier spread, consider serving it alongside Chinese fried rice or sautéed crisp vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas, adding layers of texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Try serving Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) on a bed of fresh greens for a fun take on a salad or cluster it atop noodles tossed lightly in sesame oil and soy sauce for a quick stir-fried noodle bowl. Using colorful plates or rustic bowls can also enhance the visual feast this flavorful dish offers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though rare), store your Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors even on busy days when cooking isn’t an option.

Freezing

This chicken freezes well, but for the best texture, freeze the fried chicken pieces and the sauce separately. Place chicken cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. The sauce can be frozen in a sealed container. This way, you can defrost and assemble for a quick homemade meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the frozen or refrigerated chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to help maintain the crispiness, then toss it in warmed honey sesame sauce on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken soggy. This method revives the dish’s magic so it tastes fresh and inviting all over again.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and have more flavor, which can make your Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) even more delicious. Just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces and adjust frying time accordingly.

Is it necessary to deep fry the chicken?

Deep frying is recommended for that signature crispy coating, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can try pan-frying or baking the battered chicken. The texture will be a bit different, but the sauce still delivers fantastic flavor.

Can I make the sauce vegetarian-friendly?

The sauce as written is vegetarian-friendly since it contains no animal-derived ingredients. Just be mindful of the ketchup brand to ensure it suits your preferences.

What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?

If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar or white vinegar can work well as alternatives, maintaining the tanginess needed to balance the honey’s sweetness in Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!).

How can I make this dish less sweet?

Simply reduce the amount of honey slightly, or add a little extra vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to cut through the sweetness. Adjust to your taste while still preserving the dish’s delicious contrast.

Final Thoughts

Making Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) at home is an absolute game changer. It’s fun to prepare, bursting with flavor, and hits all those satisfying notes you hope for in your favorite takeout. I genuinely encourage you to try this recipe—once you do, it might just become your go-to dinner that friends and family keep asking for again and again.

Honey Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!) Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 10 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

Honey Sesame Chicken is a delicious homemade alternative to takeout favorites, featuring crispy battered chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken breast with a perfectly balanced sauce made from honey, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil, garnished with toasted sesame seeds for an irresistible crunch. Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, combine egg white, sifted flour, cornstarch, baking powder, ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon oil, and pinch of salt. Whisk thoroughly until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Set aside.
Coat the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes or strips. Drop the chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Set aside to rest briefly.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix honey, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, cornstarch, water, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a saute pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently add battered chicken pieces one by one, spreading them evenly to prevent sticking. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-6 minutes. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Prepare the Sauce Base: Transfer 2 tablespoons of the frying oil to a wok or large skillet. Stir-fry the minced garlic until aromatic, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Simmer the Sauce: Add the prepared honey sesame sauce mixture to the wok. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 3-5 minutes.
Toss Chicken in Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the thickened sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly with the honey sesame glaze.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds as a garnish. Serve immediately over steamed white rice or your choice of Chinese fried rice for a complete meal.

Notes

Use ice-cold water in the batter for a lighter and crispier coating.
Adjust the amount of honey and vinegar to taste to balance sweetness and tanginess.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy chicken.
Can substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for juicier results.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and cornstarch.
Leftover chicken is best enjoyed fresh; sauce can be reheated separately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Deep Frying and Stir-frying
Cuisine: Chinese-American