Best Sticky and Savory Sesame Chicken in Just 30 Minutes

This sticky sesame chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen. Crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce create an addictive dish that outshines takeout.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe combines convenience with incredible taste your whole family will request again and again.

Say goodbye to expensive delivery fees and mystery ingredients. This homemade sticky sesame chicken brings authentic Asian flavors to your dinner table with simple pantry staples.

The magic happens when tender chicken meets that irresistible sticky sauce. A perfect balance of honey sweetness, soy umami, and toasted sesame richness.

Many home cooks avoid making this takeout favorite because they think it’s complicated or time-consuming. This recipe proves otherwise.

With straightforward techniques and no specialized equipment, you’ll create restaurant-worthy sesame chicken that’s healthier and more affordable than the takeout version.

The crispy exterior and juicy interior of the chicken, combined with that signature sauce, creates a memorable meal that will quickly become part of your regular dinner rotation.

Why This Sticky Sesame Chicken Recipe Works

Perfectly balanced flavors make this dish exceptional. The sauce combines honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for that ideal sweet-savory combination. Toasted sesame seeds and oil add nutty depth that elevates the entire dish.

The quick cooking method ensures juicy chicken inside with a satisfying crisp exterior. You’ll achieve that coveted restaurant texture without deep-frying or complicated techniques.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

For the Sticky Sesame Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

How to Make Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken pieces in beaten eggs, then coat in the cornstarch mixture.
3. Shake off excess coating and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Working in batches, add chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cornstarch slurry and continue to simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).
5. Stir in sesame seeds.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
2. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is hot and the sauce clings to the chicken.
3. Garnish with sliced green onions and additional sesame seeds.
4. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sticky Sesame Chicken

• Chicken Prep: Cut chicken pieces uniformly for even cooking.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat for crispy exterior without burning.
• Sauce Consistency: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still be pourable.
• Rice Pairing: Jasmine or basmati rice complements this dish beautifully.
• Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Variations to Try

Spicy Sticky Sesame Chicken

Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Honey Garlic Variation

Double the garlic and replace half the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Vegetable Add-ins

Stir in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the final cooking stage for added nutrition and color.

Storage and Reheating

This sticky sesame chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

For the best texture, the chicken will taste freshest within the first 24 hours after cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide even juicier results with more flavor.

How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with rice flour and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray with cooking oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with sticky sesame chicken?
Steamed rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a simple Asian slaw make excellent accompaniments.

Enjoy this delicious sticky sesame chicken recipe that brings amazing takeout flavors right to your dinner table in just 30 minutes!