Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken
To make this delicious dish, you will need:
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces): Use your preferred cut of chicken.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Choose low-sodium for a healthier option.
- Honey (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness and glaze.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic depth.
- Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): For coating the chicken and thickening the sauce.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For frying the chicken.
- Sesame seeds (1-2 tablespoons): Toasted for garnish.
- Green onions (2, sliced): For garnish and freshness.
- Rice or noodles (optional): To serve as a base.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of corn starch, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sear the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, then set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and the remaining tablespoon of corn starch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Combine and cook: Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over it. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the chicken. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Information of Honey Sesame Chicken
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (without rice or noodles):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Sodium: 400-600 mg (varies with soy sauce)
- Sugar: 10-12 grams (from honey)
Tips for Customizing Your Honey Sesame Chicken
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Add veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrients.
Try it today and enjoy the delicious combination of honey and sesame!