honey sesame chicken recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best honey sesame chicken recipe

Honey and sesame chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration every time I make it. It’s sweet, savory, and packed with flavor, but it’s also surprisingly light and fresh—something that works well for both casual weeknight dinners and special gatherings. My kids love it because it’s not too heavy, and the sticky glaze makes it feel indulgent without being greasy. It’s a go-to for family dinners, potlucks, or even just a quick weeknight meal when I want something flavorful but not complicated.

I love how the honey adds natural sweetness that balances the richness of the chicken, and the sesame seeds give it that little crunch and nutty depth. It’s a dish that feels festive but still feels like home—something I can make with minimal fuss but still feel proud of. Plus, it’s got a few health perks too, like being a good source of lean protein and healthy fats from the sesame. It’s not so heavy that it’ll weigh you down, but it’s not so light that it’ll leave you wanting more. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel good about what you’re serving.

Honey Sesame Chicken with Crispy Rice Noodles

Honey Sesame Chicken with Crispy Rice Noodles

4.7 from 1120 votes

A sweet and savory dish featuring tender chicken glazed in a sticky honey-sesame sauce, paired with crispy rice noodles for a satisfying bite. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
For the Sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Rice Noodles
  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp chopped green onions

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1
    Cook rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
  2. 2
    In a bowl, mix chicken thighs with soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  3. 3
    Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. 4
    In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  5. 5
    Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and glaze forms.
  6. 6
    Toss cooked rice noodles with vegetable oil, sesame seeds, and green onions. Divide noodles and chicken among plates.
  7. 7
    Drizzle with the honey-sesame sauce and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Mixing spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 3❤️Cholesterol: 90🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 35🥦Dietary Fiber: 2🍬Sugars: 12🥩Protein: 30

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispiness, lightly pan-fry the rice noodles before tossing. Adjust sweetness or spice levels to taste.

Watch Video Of How Honey Sesame Chicken with Crispy Rice Noodles Works

This honey sesame chicken is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s naturally sweet, savory, and packed with flavor that feels special without being fancy. It works perfectly for any casual gathering—whether you’re serving it up over rice for a weeknight meal or as a showstopper at a holiday dinner—because the sticky glaze balances crispy chicken and nutty sesame so well, everyone’s happy. Plus, it’s simple enough to make ahead and reheat, so you can focus on the fun instead of the food.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Sesame Chicken with Crispy Rice Noodles

How do I adjust the sweetness if my honey isn’t sweet enough?

You can balance the flavor by adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of brown sugar to the sauce. If the honey is overly strong, reduce the quantity by half and increase it to 1 tablespoon in the next step.

Can I substitute regular sesame oil for toasted sesame oil?

Regular sesame oil won’t give the same nutty aroma, but it can work in a pinch. For best results, toast the seeds first in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes), then grind them into a paste. Use the paste in place of toasted sesame oil in the marinade.

What if I don’t have a skewer for grilling?

Skip the skewer and grill the chicken pieces directly on the grill grates. Flip them frequently to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking. For a safer alternative, grill in a small oven-safe pan on the grill’s heat source.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

The sauce and marinade are naturally gluten-free, but check the soy sauce or oyster sauce for hidden additives. If needed, substitute with tamari (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative). For the honey glaze, ensure honey is pure and not processed with additives.

Why does the honey glaze turn sticky or grainy?

A sticky glaze happens when the honey melts too quickly—reduce the heat to medium-low and stir occasionally. If it looks grainy, it may be undercooked. Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes after grilling before glazing to help the honey absorb evenly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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