Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of Savory Honey Sesame Chicken fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, reminiscent of my travels through Asia, where I first tasted this comforting meal. The tender chicken, coated in a glossy honey sesame sauce, dances on your palate, making it a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, Savory Honey Sesame Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
What is Savory Honey Sesame Chicken?
Savory Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This recipe draws inspiration from Asian cuisine, where the balance of flavors is key. The dish is often served over rice or alongside vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal. With its glossy finish and aromatic profile, Savory Honey Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Honey Sesame Chicken
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously balanced flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
- Healthier than takeout, packed with protein and essential nutrients.
- Customizable sweetness to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Who It’s For
This recipe is ideal for busy families looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s also perfect for health-conscious cooks who want to enjoy a flavorful dish without the guilt. Food lovers will appreciate the authentic taste and the ease of making this dish at home.
When to Cook It
Savory Honey Sesame Chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. It also shines during family gatherings or celebrations, providing a comforting and delicious option that everyone will love. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, this dish fits right in.
How to Make the Perfect Savory Honey Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces; provides lean protein.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness; can substitute with agave syrup for a vegan option.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma; can replace with olive oil if needed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced for depth of flavor; garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder is a good alternative.
- 1 tablespoon water: Helps create the cornstarch slurry.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: For garnish and crunch; can use poppy seeds for a different texture.
- 2 green onions: Chopped for freshness; can substitute with chives.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; adjust according to preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken pieces, cooking until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the honey mixture over the chicken, stirring to coat each piece evenly in the sauce.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Once thickened, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.
For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes
- Stevia: A natural sweetener with zero calories; use sparingly as it’s much sweeter than sugar.
- Monk fruit: A low-calorie sweetener that doesn’t spike blood sugar; great for cooking.
- Allulose: A rare sugar that has minimal impact on blood sugar levels; can be used in equal amounts as honey.
- It’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup as they can raise blood sugar levels significantly.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Chef Ming Tsai suggests marinating the chicken in the honey mixture for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor profile.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Renowned chef David Chang emphasizes the importance of using fresh garlic and green onions for a vibrant taste.
- Control the Heat: Chef Jet Tila recommends cooking the chicken over medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly without burning the sauce.
- Garnish Creatively: Chef Nancy Silverton loves to add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Chef Roy Choi encourages adding colorful vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the dish for added nutrition and texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Savory Honey Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
- Adding Moisture: If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or chicken broth while reheating to restore its consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve reheated chicken over fresh rice or steamed vegetables for a quick meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for a golden-brown color and ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
- Not Mixing the Sauce Well: Failing to thoroughly combine the honey mixture can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure all ingredients are well blended for a consistent taste.
- Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: Omitting the cornstarch slurry can result in a watery sauce. This step is crucial for achieving that thick, glossy finish.
- Using Old Ingredients: Using stale or expired ingredients can compromise the dish’s flavor. Always check the freshness of your honey, soy sauce, and spices.
- Neglecting to Garnish: Skipping the sesame seeds and green onions can make the dish look less appealing. Garnishes add not only flavor but also visual appeal to your meal.
FAQs About Savory Honey Sesame Chicken
Q: Can I use other proteins instead of chicken for this Savory Honey Sesame Chicken recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even pork for a different flavor profile.
Q: Is Savory Honey Sesame Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.
Q: Can I make Savory Honey Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
It depends; simply use tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
Q: Is it possible to make Savory Honey Sesame Chicken spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness in Savory Honey Sesame Chicken?
Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Savory Honey Sesame Chicken
In conclusion, Savory Honey Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a quick and easy recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is sure to please. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! If you try this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share it with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
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Savory Honey Sesame Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
- In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken pieces, cooking until browned.
- Pour the honey mixture over the chicken and stir to coat.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Savory Honey Sesame Chicken, Honey Chicken Recipe, Asian Chicken Dish