There’s something special about making Honey Sesame Chicken at home. The smell alone makes my kids run into the kitchen. This Chinese-inspired favorite, sweet, sticky, and perfectly crisp—has become one of my go-to cooking recipes for dinner. It’s fast enough for a weeknight, yet feels like a restaurant meal you’d find at Panda Express, just healthier and fresher.
When I first tried to recreate honey sesame chicken Panda style, I wanted all the flavor without the heaviness. After plenty of trial runs, I found the right balance, crispy chicken breast, a golden glaze of honey and soy, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Every bite hits that perfect blend of savory and sweet.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Honey Sesame Chicken
Before we dive in, here’s what makes this recipe a reader favorite:
- Quick to make: Ready in 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple ingredients: Everything’s pantry-friendly and easy to find.
- Better than takeout: Crisp chicken and thick honey sesame sauce—no soggy bites.
- Healthier option: Light oil, lean chicken breast, and no MSG.
- Family-approved: Kids and adults both ask for seconds.
For more cozy weeknight ideas, you might also enjoy my Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe or these Buffalo Chicken Sliders for fun easy recipes.
Honey Sesame Chicken
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- wok or deep pan
- measuring spoons
- tongs or slotted spoon
- whisk
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder
- ½ tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp water (for marinade)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup water (for batter)
- 2 tsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp water (for sauce)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water (slurry)
- Toasted sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with bouillon, white pepper, and water for 10 minutes.
- Whisk batter ingredients and coat chicken evenly.
- Heat oil to 365°F and fry chicken for 3 minutes. Remove and rest.
- Increase oil to 375°F and fry again for 2 minutes until golden.
- Heat garlic and sauce mixture in a wok, simmer 2 minutes, then thicken with slurry.
- Toss fried chicken in sauce until coated.
- Top with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken breast for a lean, healthy version.
- If you prefer juicier meat, chicken thighs work great too.
- For lighter texture, fry once and finish in the oven or air fryer.
- The honey sesame chicken sauce thickens fast — keep stirring!
- Always toss the chicken just before serving to keep it crispy.
- Double the sauce if serving with honey sesame chicken noodles.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 355 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 1172 mg |
| Sugar | 19 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
The Secret Behind the Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken Sauce
Every unforgettable Honey Sesame Chicken starts with the sauce. It’s the heart of this dish — a mix of sweet honey, salty soy, and a touch of sesame oil that gives it that authentic Chinese flavor. If you’ve ever wondered how to make it taste just like honey sesame chicken Panda Express, this is where the magic happens.
Honey Sesame Sauce Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create that signature flavor:
- 3 tablespoons light soy sauce: Adds saltiness and depth.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: For umami richness (optional for lighter versions).
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Enhances color and tang.
- ¼ cup honey: The star of the show — pure, natural sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Makes the glaze caramelize beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons water: Helps blend the flavors smoothly.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds boldness and fragrance.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Finishes the sauce with a nutty aroma.
Pro Tip: To make honey sesame chicken healthy, cut the sugar slightly and increase the vinegar for more brightness.
Mixing the Sauce
To prepare the sauce:
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Heat a wok or pan over medium heat.
- Add a teaspoon of oil, then sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the sauce mixture and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add a cornstarch slurry (2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
That’s it — your honey sesame chicken sauce is ready. It’s perfect for coating crispy chicken or even tossing over stir-fried noodles for a quick dinner.
Choosing the Right Chicken for Honey Sesame Chicken
The best Honey Sesame Chicken starts with the right cut of meat.
While thighs are more tender, I prefer chicken breast because it keeps things light and makes this one of my favorite healthy homemade recipes.
Here’s how to get the best results:
- Chicken Breast: Lean, cooks quickly, and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Chicken Thighs: Juicier and slightly fattier — great for that traditional Chinese restaurant feel.
Before frying, marinate your chicken with:
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon water
Let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This step makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
Simple Batter for Crispy Perfection
A crisp coating is what sets this honey sesame chicken breast apart from other Chinese cooking recipes. It’s thin, airy, and perfectly crunchy — not greasy.
You’ll need:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup water
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
How to prepare it:
- Whisk all batter ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Pour it over the marinated chicken and mix well.
- Make sure each piece is fully coated before frying.
If you’d like a lighter version, you can use an air fryer — it still gives that crispy texture while keeping things low in oil, making it a smart choice for honey sesame chicken healthy meals.
Chef’s Note
The secret to restaurant-level crispiness? Double frying.
- First fry at 365°F for 3 minutes.
- Let it rest.
- Then fry again at 375°F for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
This simple technique locks in juiciness while keeping the outer layer crunchy — perfect for tossing in your freshly made honey sesame glaze.
How to Cook Honey Sesame Chicken the Easy Way
Now that your ingredients and sauce are ready, it’s time to bring your Honey Sesame Chicken to life. The goal here is crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and perfectly glazed — all in under 45 minutes.
This method works whether you prefer to deep-fry, shallow-fry, or even make an air fryer honey sesame chicken version for a lighter touch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make your homemade version taste just like your favorite takeout.
Heat the Oil:
Add about 2–3 inches of oil in a wok or deep pot. Bring it to 365°F — that’s the ideal frying temperature for a light, golden crust.
First Fry (For Texture):
- Gently add the coated chicken pieces in small batches.
- Fry for about 3 minutes until light golden.
- Remove using a spider strainer and rest them on a wire rack.
Second Fry (For Crispiness):
- Raise the oil to 375°F.
- Fry each batch again for 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- This double-fry method keeps the coating crunchy even after adding the sauce.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in your wok over medium heat.
- Add garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in your pre-mixed honey sesame sauce.
- Simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the cornstarch slurry until thick.
Combine:
- Turn off the heat, drizzle sesame oil, and toss your crispy chicken into the sauce.
- Stir well until every piece is beautifully coated and shiny.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
- Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Air Fryer Option
Want a lighter take on honey sesame chicken air fryer style? Here’s how:
- Spray your air fryer basket with oil.
- Place coated chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Toss with sauce just before serving.
This method cuts down on oil but keeps the crunch intact — perfect for healthy homemade recipes without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Ideas for Honey Sesame Chicken
One of my favorite things about this dish is how flexible it is. Whether it’s dinner, lunch, or a quick snack, Honey Sesame Chicken fits right in.
Here are a few fun serving ideas:
- Classic Dinner Bowl: Serve over jasmine or brown rice for a balanced meal.
- Honey Sesame Chicken Noodles: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a full Asian-inspired dinner.
- Honey Sesame Chicken Tenders: Shape chicken pieces into strips before battering — great for kids or as quick recipes snacks for parties.
- Meal Prep Option: Store in containers with rice and steamed veggies. Reheats perfectly for busy weeknights.
If you love easy comfort meals, you’ll also enjoy my Chicken Fajita Casserole — it’s another reader favorite in my list of cooking recipes for dinner.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
To get that restaurant-level flavor and look:
- Use fresh oil or neutral oil like canola for clean taste.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it lowers oil temperature.
- Always double-fry for crunch.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before tossing — it helps the glaze cling better.
- Garnish right before serving for color and aroma.
These steps keep your Honey Sesame Chicken crisp, glossy, and irresistible every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Sesame Chicken
What is in honey sesame chicken?
Honey Sesame Chicken is made of crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet, savory glaze. The sauce combines soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil, giving it a glossy texture and rich Asian flavor.
What is the honey sesame chicken at Panda Express?
At Panda Express, their Honey Sesame Chicken includes crispy strips of chicken breast tossed in a honey-sesame glaze with yellow bell peppers and string beans. My version captures the same sweet crunch but with lighter, homemade ingredients.
Is honey sesame chicken the same as orange chicken?
They’re similar in texture but not in taste. Orange chicken uses orange juice and zest for a tangy, citrus-forward flavor, while honey sesame chicken relies on honey and sesame oil for sweetness and nutty warmth.
Can I mix honey and soy sauce together?
Yes — honey and soy sauce are a classic combination in Chinese cooking recipes. The sweet and salty balance enhances chicken, fish, and stir-fried vegetables perfectly.
What’s healthier, orange chicken or sesame chicken?
Generally, honey sesame chicken can be healthier if made at home using minimal oil and lean chicken breast. It’s a great choice for healthy homemade recipes that don’t skip on taste.
What does honey sesame chicken breast taste like?
It’s lightly crisp, sweet, and savory with nutty sesame notes. The honey gives a caramelized finish while sesame oil adds depth — making it one of the most loved cooking recipes for dinner worldwide.
There’s something satisfying about cooking your own Honey Sesame Chicken instead of ordering takeout. It’s one of those fun easy recipes that transforms simple ingredients into something special.
With its sticky glaze, golden crunch, and quick prep time, this meal brings restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or enjoy it as crispy tenders, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite.
If you love easy, flavorful meals like this, try my Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe next — it’s another comforting family dish that fits perfectly into your weekly menu.