Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe Crispy & Better Than Takeout

Today we’re tackling yet another Chinese takeout classic. I’ll be showing you one of my personal favorites: the Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe.

If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and perfectly crispy, this Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe is just what you need. Inspired by your favorite Chinese takeout, this dish features bite-sized chicken pieces double-fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a glossy, homemade honey sauce with a hint of soy, sesame, and a touch of vinegar.

While it may look like something that requires hours in the kitchen, this recipe is actually quite simple to make at home. With a few pantry staples like soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch, plus a quick double fry method, you can recreate restaurant-style results right in your own kitchen.

In this recipe, we’re skipping the store-bought sauces and making everything from scratch, including that rich honey glaze that clings beautifully to the crispy chicken bites. No artificial flavors, just real, wholesome ingredients that bring comfort and bold flavor in every bite.

So, roll up your sleeves, heat up that oil, and let’s dive into this crave-worthy Honey Sesame Chicken recipe that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat!

How To Make Honey Chicken – Easy and Crispy Takeout-Style

📝 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)
  
• ¼ tsp salt
  
• ¼ tsp onion powder
  
• ¼ tsp white pepper
  
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
  
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing cooking wine
  
• 1 egg white (from 1 large egg)
  
• 3 tbsp cornstarch (for marinade)
  
• ⅔ cup plain cornstarch (for dredging)
  
• Cooking oil for frying
  

For the Honey Sauce:

• 1½ tbsp cooking oil
  
• Whites of 1 scallion
  
• ½ to ¾ cup honey (start with ½ cup and adjust to taste)
  
• 2 tsp Shaoxing cooking wine
  
• 1 tsp soy sauce
  
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  
• ½ cup chicken broth
  
• ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  
• 1½ tbsp cornstarch + 1½ tbsp cold water (slurry)
  
• 1 tsp sesame oil
  

Garnish:

• Toasted sesame seeds
  
• Freshly chopped scallions
  

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix:

• ¼ tsp salt
  
• ¼ tsp onion powder
  
• ¼ tsp white pepper
  

Add this seasoning to the chicken along with:

• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
  
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
  
• 1 egg white
  
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
  

Use clean hands to mix well. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3 – Coat the Chicken

After marinating:

• Dredge each chicken piece in ⅔ cup plain cornstarch.
  
• Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and let it set for 10–15 minutes.

Cooking Instructions

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil to 360°F (182°C). Use the double fry method:

First Fry

• Fry chicken in batches for about 1 to 1½ minutes.
  
• Remove from oil and set aside.
  

Second Fry

Making the Honey Sauce

Prepare the Sauce Base

In a preheated pan (medium heat), add:

• 1½ tbsp cooking oil
  
• Whites of 1 scallion
  

(You can also add ginger and garlic if desired, but it was left out in this version.)

Build the Sauce

Add:

• ½ to ¾ cup honey (adjust after tasting)
  
• 2 tsp Shaoxing cooking wine
  
• 1 tsp soy sauce
  
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  
• ½ cup chicken broth
  

Mix and gently simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Add:

• ¼ tsp salt
  
• Cornstarch slurry (1½ tbsp cornstarch + 1½ tbsp cold water)
  
• 1 tsp sesame oil
  

Mix until the sauce thickens. Turn off heat.

Final Assembly

Coat the Chicken

• Add double-fried chicken pieces into the thickened sauce.
  
• Toss until evenly coated.

 Garnish & Serve

Garnish

Top with:

• Toasted sesame seeds
  
• Freshly chopped scallions
  

Recipe Variations for Honey Sesame Chicken

Here are a few tasty twists you can try:

1. Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken – Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
   
2. Baked Version—Bake the coated chicken instead of frying for a healthier option.
   
3. Air Fryer Honey Chicken – Air fry the marinated chicken at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes.
   
4. Honey Sesame Tofu – Replace chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
   

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work great in this Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe.

2. Can I skip the Shaoxing wine?

If you don’t have it, you can substitute with dry sherry or leave it out. The flavor will still be delicious.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep and fry the chicken in advance. Reheat in an oven and toss in fresh sauce before serving.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover honey chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it crispy, reheat it in a skillet or air fryer.

Conclusion

Making this Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe at home is easier than you think—and far more delicious than takeout! With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you get crispy, golden chicken coated in a sweet, sticky sauce that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy every craving. Don’t forget to try out the variations and serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Happy cooking!