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I’ve always had a soft spot for dishes that blend sweet and savory in the most irresistible way, and let me tell you, this Baked Honey Sesame Chicken hits that spot every single time. Picture this: tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sticky honey sesame sauce that’s baked to perfection, with those sesame seeds adding just the right crunch. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel special without all the fuss. In my experience, whipping up this Baked Honey Sesame Chicken has become my go-to when I want something comforting yet exciting on the table.
What I love most is how it transforms simple ingredients into something restaurant-worthy. The honey caramelizes beautifully in the oven, infusing the chicken with that sweet depth, while the sesame brings an nutty toastiness that’s downright addictive. If you’re tired of the same old chicken recipes, this Baked Honey Sesame Chicken is about to change the game for you. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you today—it’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy folks like us. Let’s dive in and get that delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Key Takeaways:
- Baked Honey Sesame Chicken delivers crispy, tender results with minimal effort, making it ideal for family dinners.
- Prep and cook in under an hour for a quick, satisfying meal on hectic evenings.
- The sweet-savory glaze creates an explosion of flavors that even picky eaters adore.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best zesty kick in your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken.
- Store leftovers for up to four days and reheat for easy lunches all week.
Why You’ll Adore This Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Effortless Weeknight Wonder: This recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, from prep to plate, so you can enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for those days when you’re juggling a million things but still want a flavorful meal. In my experience, it feels like a treat even on the busiest nights.
Family-Friendly Flavor Bomb: Kids and adults alike rave about the sticky, sweet coating that clings to every bite. The sesame seeds add a fun texture that makes it exciting to eat. You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Healthier Takeout Alternative: Baked instead of fried, this Baked Honey Sesame Chicken cuts down on oil while keeping all the taste you crave from Asian-inspired dishes. It’s a smarter swap that doesn’t sacrifice any deliciousness. Plus, you control the ingredients for a fresher meal.
Versatile and Customizable: Whether you’re pairing it with rice or veggies, this dish adapts to your mood. I’ve experimented with spice levels, and it always turns out fantastic. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps you coming back for more tweaks and variations.
Essential Ingredients for Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken pieces are the star here, providing juicy, tender meat that soaks up the sauce beautifully. I prefer thighs for their extra moistness, but breasts work great if you want a leaner option. They form the base that makes this Baked Honey Sesame Chicken so satisfying and protein-packed. In total, about 1.5 pounds serves four generously.
Honey: This natural sweetener is key to the glossy, caramelized glaze that defines the dish. It balances the savory elements with its floral notes, creating that addictive stickiness. Use raw honey if you have it for a richer flavor—it’s what elevates your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken from good to unforgettable. A half-cup does the trick without overpowering.
Sesame Seeds and Oil: Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and nuttiness, while sesame oil brings a deep, aromatic essence to the sauce. These ingredients tie everything together with an authentic Asian flair that makes the chicken pop. Sprinkling them on at the end ensures they stay crisp in your homemade Baked Honey Sesame Chicken. Don’t skip them; they’re worth every bit of the toast time.
How to Make Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
Start by whisking together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl until smooth—this is the heart of your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken sauce. Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the mixture, letting it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse those flavors deeply. I find that a quick stir every few minutes helps everything coat evenly. This step sets the stage for the incredible taste that follows, and it’s so simple even on a rushed evening.
Bake for Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer, then bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to get that even caramelization. The kitchen will fill with the most mouthwatering sweet-savory aroma—it’s pure magic. Keep an eye on it; the edges should turn golden and sticky, signaling your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken is nearly ready.
Glaze and Finish with Sesame Crunch
While baking, simmer the remaining marinade in a saucepan until it thickens into a luscious glaze, about 5 minutes—stir constantly to avoid burning. Once the chicken is out, brush or toss it with this reduced sauce for extra shine and flavor. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that final pop. Your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken is now complete, crispy on the outside and juicy within—serve it hot for the best experience.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
Baked Honey Sesame Chicken Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for 15-30 minutes in the fridge.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange marinated chicken in a single layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is cooked through and edges are caramelized.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, bring remaining marinade to a boil, then simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Remove chicken from oven, toss with thickened glaze, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately.
Serves 4. Prep time: 20 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have time, let the chicken sit in the sauce overnight—it makes the Baked Honey Sesame Chicken even more tender and flavorful.
Toast Sesame Seeds Fresh: Dry-toast them in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes; this amps up their nuttiness without burning.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Give the chicken space on the baking sheet so it bakes evenly and gets that desirable crispiness.
You Must Know
- This recipe uses baking to reduce oil compared to frying, making it a lighter option without losing taste.
- Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F internally—use a thermometer for safety.
- The sauce thickens naturally with honey, but cornstarch slurry can help if needed for extra gloss.
- Fresh ginger provides the best zing; powdered works in a pinch but adjust to half the amount.
How to Store Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Once cooled, transfer your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating. To reheat, pop it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s moisture. It’s just as tasty the next day!
Customizing Your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
If you prefer a spicier twist, add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for heat that complements the sweetness. Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp to make it vegetarian or seafood-focused— the sauce works wonders on both. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. These tweaks keep your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken versatile for any dietary needs, and I’ve linked to our simple chicken marinades for more inspiration.
What to Serve with Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the incredible sauce, or try fried rice for extra texture. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness. For heartier sides, roasted broccoli or stir-fried veggies work beautifully. Don’t forget a chilled green tea or iced soy milk to round out the Asian-inspired meal—it’s a combo that always impresses in my kitchen.
Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
The sauce has a sweet honey flavor to it and is absolute honey sesame perfection. If you love chinese and make one thing from my blog, make this!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 4 chicken breasts
- 02 1 cup cornstarch
- 03 3 large eggs
- 04 salt and pepper
- 05 1/4 cup canola oil
- 06 3/4 cup honey
- 07 3/4 cup soy sauce
- 08 1/2 cup ketchup
- 09 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 10 1/2 cup rice wine vinegar
- 11 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 12 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 13 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 14 additional sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
In separate bowls, place cornstarch and slightly beaten eggs. Dip chicken into cornstarch then coat in egg mixture then back into the cornstarch. I have also found that you can put the chicken pieces in a gallon size bag and shake to coat.
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until browned. Place the chicken in a 9 x 13 greased baking dish.
In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and 1 T cornstarch. Pour over chicken and bake for 45 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
I stirred the chicken every 15 minutes so that it coated them in the sauce.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Can I make Baked Honey Sesame Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even better flavor infusion. Assemble and bake just before serving to maintain crispiness, though leftovers reheat well. It’s a great make-ahead option for meal prep.
How long does Baked Honey Sesame Chicken last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it stays fresh for 3-4 days. Beyond that, freeze it to extend enjoyment up to two months. Always check for spoilage before eating.
Is Baked Honey Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
It can be—with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, yes. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt. Check labels to be sure.
Can I use chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, chicken breasts work wonderfully in Baked Honey Sesame Chicken, though they may dry out slightly compared to thighs. Pound them to even thickness and avoid overbaking. For more tips, see our air fryer chicken fajitas.
What’s the calorie count per serving?
Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portions—it’s balanced with protein and moderate carbs. Adjust honey for lower sugar if needed. It’s a satisfying meal without feeling heavy.
How can I make Baked Honey Sesame Chicken crispier?
Broil for the last 2-3 minutes after glazing to get that extra crunch on the edges. Pat the chicken dry before baking to remove excess moisture. This simple step transforms your Baked Honey Sesame Chicken into a texture delight.
Can I air fry Baked Honey Sesame Chicken instead?
Definitely—cook at 380°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway. It mimics the bake but with more crisp. Check out our air fryer chicken sausage for similar techniques.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Most kids love the sweet honey glaze, but you can omit ginger or spice for milder taste. Serve with rice to make it fun. In my experience, it’s a hit at family tables, similar to our General Tso’s chicken.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—the ultimate guide to creating this crowd-pleasing Baked Honey Sesame Chicken that brings sweet, sticky joy to every bite. From the easy prep to the flavorful finish, it’s a recipe that’s won over my family time and again. I encourage you to give it a whirl tonight; you won’t regret it. Share your tweaks in the comments—I’d love to hear how your version turns out!