If you’re a fan of Chinese-American cuisine, chances are you’ve encountered the delectable Honey Sesame Chicken from Panda Express. This dish combines crispy chicken with fresh vegetables like bell peppers and green beans, all coated in a sticky honey sesame sauce. Whether you’re recreating the dish at home or simply want to learn more about it, this guide has you covered.
Recreating Honey Sesame Chicken at home allows for customization, such as choosing healthier oils and controlling the amount of sodium and sugar. If you’re looking to enhance your cooking skills, understanding the best methods for preparing crispy chicken is essential, and you can find similar tips in our guide on frozen chicken legs in an air fryer.
For those who enjoy pairing this sweet-savory dish with breakfast, you might love our recipe for Bananas Foster Pancakes—another delicious way to bring restaurant-quality meals to your home kitchen.
Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken
To make this dish, you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Honey: Adds sweetness to the sauce.
- Sesame oil and seeds: For nutty flavor and crunch.
- Soy sauce: Low-sodium is best for controlling the salt content.
- Cornstarch and flour: For creating a crispy coating on the chicken.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers and green beans are traditionally used.
- Garlic and ginger: These provide the foundation of flavor for the sauce.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Honey Sesame Chicken is around 400-450 calories. While it’s delicious, the dish does contain a fair amount of sugar from the honey and sodium from the soy sauce. However, using low-sodium soy sauce and swapping out refined sugars for healthier alternatives can help you balance the dish nutritionally.
Learn more about making easy and balanced meals by checking out our tips on meal preparation for busy lifestyles.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Honey Sesame Chicken
Preparation:
- Batter the chicken:
- Mix cornstarch and flour with salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the dry mixture, then let it rest for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Frying:
- Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the chicken until crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Vegetable prep:
- Sauté bell peppers and green beans in sesame oil until tender but still vibrant.
Sauce Preparation:
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Putting It All Together:
- Toss the fried chicken and sautéed vegetables in the sauce, ensuring that everything is well-coated.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds for a final touch.
Best Serving Suggestions
Pair your Honey Sesame Chicken with one of the following:
- Steamed rice: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Fried rice: Adds more depth to your meal.
- Chow mein: A great option if you prefer noodles over rice.
For a quick, easy, and healthier take, consider exploring our easy meal prep recipes, which provide tips on keeping meals like this fresh and flavorful.
Homemade vs. Panda Express Version
There are several advantages to making Honey Sesame Chicken at home, including:
- Healthier options: You control the amount of oil, sodium, and sugar.
- Customizable flavors: Adjust the sweetness, spice, and tang to your liking.
- Fresher ingredients: Nothing beats the taste of freshly cooked food made with love.
FAQs About Honey Sesame Chicken
- What is in Panda Express’ Honey Sesame Chicken? The dish includes crispy chicken, bell peppers, green beans, and a sweet honey sesame sauce.
- Is Honey Sesame Chicken spicy? It’s generally sweet, but you can add chili flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
- Can I make it gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the flour with gluten-free alternatives and use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Customizing Your Honey Sesame Chicken
If you want to personalize this recipe, here are some great options:
- Alternative Proteins: Swap out chicken for tofu, shrimp, or even pork.
- More Vegetables: Feel free to add broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love spice.
Conclusion
Making Honey Sesame Chicken at home is not only easy but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. With this recipe, you can enjoy the delicious combination of crispy chicken, fresh vegetables, and sweet honey sesame sauce in the comfort of your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with different sides and vegetables to create the perfect meal for your taste buds!
For more tips and meal ideas, explore our articles like frozen chicken legs in an air fryer and easy meal prep recipes. Happy cooking!