Elevate your home cooking: learn to make authentic honey sesame chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes.
• In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
• Toss the chicken cubes in the cornstarch mixture to coat.

2. Fry the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Honey Sesame Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

• Return the fried chicken to the skillet.
• Pour the honey sesame sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.
• Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and caramelized.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the chicken.
• Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken:

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor.
• Cut the chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking.
• Fry the chicken until golden brown to create a crispy texture.
• Don’t overcook the chicken or it will become tough.
• Serve the honey sesame chicken immediately for the best experience.

Variations:

• Add vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli, carrots, or red bell peppers.
• Use a different type of vinegar, such as white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
• Serve with a side of dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or ranch dressing.

The Secret to Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken:

• The key to recreating the iconic Panda Express honey sesame chicken lies in the perfect balance of flavors.
• The combination of honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy sauce.
• The crispy chicken adds a satisfying crunch, while the green onions provide a fresh, aromatic touch.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: Can I make the honey sesame sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before using.

Q: What can I serve with honey sesame chicken?

A: Honey sesame chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.