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–+ servings

Honey Sesame Chicken

This sticky and sweet honey sesame chicken is quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. It's flexible enough to swap chicken for tofu and delivers a satisfying glaze with toasted sesame and green onions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce Regular soy sauce can be used, but taste before adding extra salt.
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil Adds a nutty aroma; optional to finish with toasted sesame oil.
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional) Helps deepen the glaze for a richer caramel flavor.
  • 1/4 cup water
For the chicken
  • 3–4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds Sprinkle over the finished dish.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch For thickening the sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the chicken into evenly sized, bite-sized pieces so it cooks uniformly.
  2. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and brown sugar (if using) to make the marinade.
  3. Toss the chicken in the marinade until everything is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Longer (up to 2 hours) builds more flavor.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high until shimmering.
  2. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear, turning occasionally, until pieces are golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes depending on size.
  3. Mix the cornstarch into the 1/4 cup water to form a smooth slurry. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet, then add the cornstarch slurry. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and glosses the chicken, about 1–2 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20g

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours, but not necessary for success. Keeping leftovers fresh in an airtight container can last for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Freeze for up to 2 months.

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