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Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe – Easy Sticky Honey Glaze Dinner

crispy sesame chicken - featured image

This homemade crispy sesame chicken features juicy chicken pieces coated in a crunchy batter, fried until golden, and tossed in a sticky, sweet honey glaze. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish inspired by classic Chinese takeout, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or black, toasted lightly)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Set up breading station: whisk eggs in one bowl; in another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then the egg, and back into the flour mixture for a double coat. Set aside.
  4. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or wok over medium-high heat to 350°F.
  5. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  6. Optional: For extra crunch, re-fry chicken for 1 minute per side after initial draining.
  7. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring often.
  8. Mix cornstarch with water and whisk into the sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes until thick and glossy.
  9. Place fried chicken in a large bowl, pour hot glaze over, and toss to coat.
  10. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
  11. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with extra sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF flour and tamari. Double-coating and frying in batches ensures maximum crunch. Re-fry for extra crispiness if desired. Keep glaze and chicken separate for leftovers to maintain texture. Add sriracha for a spicy kick or toss in steamed veggies for a stir-fry variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: sesame chicken, crispy chicken, honey glaze, Chinese takeout, easy dinner, homemade, fried chicken, sticky sauce, Asian recipe, comfort food