If you’re craving bold flavors with just the right balance of sweetness and heat, this Hot Honey Sesame Chicken recipe will become your new go-to dish. Crispy, golden bites of tender chicken are coated in a sticky hot honey glaze that combines the richness of sesame oil, the sweetness of honey, and a satisfying touch of chili heat.
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients. The best part? It’s easy to make and ready in less than 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Chicken:
- 1½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup (65g) cornstarch
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
- ⅓ cup (80ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece in cornstarch and flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs. Coat again lightly with cornstarch for extra crispiness.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 4–5 minutes per side).
- Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.
- Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Toss and Coat
- Add fried chicken pieces to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the hot honey sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice for a satisfying meal.
- Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables or Asian slaw for added crunch.
- For a lighter option, toss the chicken on top of a mixed greens salad with sesame dressing.
- Add crushed peanuts or cashews for extra texture and nutty flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 36 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 620 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health and satiety.
- Honey and sesame oil add beneficial antioxidants and healthy fats.
- Ginger and garlic support digestion and immunity.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce or substituting with coconut aminos.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Double coat the chicken for extra crispiness that holds up to the glaze.
- For a healthier version, air fry or bake instead of deep frying.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less sriracha or chili flakes.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet to maintain crisp texture.
Variations to Try
- Hot Honey Tofu: Swap chicken for firm tofu cubes for a vegetarian alternative.
- Sticky Cauliflower Bites: Use roasted cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a plant-based twist.
- Extra Crunchy Version: Add crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to the coating mix.
- Citrus Kick: Add a tablespoon of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a zesty flavor balance.
This Hot Honey Sesame Chicken brings together the perfect trifecta of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Each bite is coated in a glossy, sticky glaze that pairs beautifully with the crispiness of the chicken and the nutty aroma of sesame.
Whether served over rice or enjoyed as an appetizer, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your dinner guests. Simple, quick, and irresistibly flavorful — it’s the perfect weeknight indulgence.