Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Imagine sinking your teeth into tender pieces of chicken glazed with a sweet and sticky sauce, punctuated by the crunch of sesame seeds. That’s the magic of Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken! This dish brings together savory and sweet flavors, creating a mouth-watering combination that hits all the right notes – crispy on the outside and luscious on the inside. I remember the first time I had it: I was at a family gathering, savoring every bite, and declaring, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” with laughter from my loved ones ringing in the air.

What’s special about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up at home faster than the time it takes to order takeout. Plus, it appeals to everyone – from kids to adults – making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners. If you’ve tried my popular General Tso’s Chicken recipe, you’ll definitely want to add this one to your collection for its equally delightful flavors!

What is Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken?

So, what exactly is Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken? Like its name suggests, it features crispy chicken pieces doused in an irresistibly sweet honey sauce, all topped off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that combines fried chicken and honey? But let’s be honest; where did the name come from? Does it suggest we should be eating it while contemplating life under a cherry blossom tree? Intriguing questions arise, and that’s part of the fun! Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create some kitchen magic!

Why You’ll Love This Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

There are three standout reasons to adore this Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken recipe. First, it’s the star of any dinner table, and feels undeniably more satisfying than takeout. You can serve it alongside steamed rice and fresh vegetables, transforming it into a delightful and nutritious meal. Secondly, cooking at home means significant cost savings, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes without the takeout price tag. Think about it—why spend extra when you can create restaurant-quality meals in your very own kitchen?

Lastly, the flavorful toppings like green onions and sesame seeds elevate this dish to new levels! They add that extra crunch and vibrant color, reminiscent of traditional Asian cuisine but tailored to your family’s preferences. If you’ve enjoyed my Teriyaki Chicken recipe, this honey sesame adaptation will blow your taste buds away!

How to Make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Quick Overview

Making Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken is not just easy but also incredibly satisfying. With crispy chicken lightly coated in a luscious honey sauce and garnished with sesame seeds, it’s comfort food at its finest. You’ll be able to pull this crowd-pleaser together in about 30 minutes, making weeknight meals a breeze!

Key Ingredients for Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for that perfect crispy coating)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup honey (to bring that sweet flavor)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use a Halal-certified brand)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for topping)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional but delightful!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss in the chicken pieces until they are well-coated.
2. Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches. Fry them until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes each side. Be sure to maintain the oil temperature for an evenly cooked chicken.
3. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is frying, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is well combined and begins to bubble.
4. Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and drain it on paper towels. Then, add it into the saucepan with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately, preferably with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Top Tips for Perfecting Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

• Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free alternative, try using almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs for the crispy coating.
• Timing: Maintain a steady frying temperature by ensuring the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken and frying in small batches for even cooking.
• Avoid Soggy Chicken: Ensure you drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil before adding it to the sauce. This will keep it crispier longer.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to retain that crispy texture—microwaving can lead to a soggy experience. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

Now that you have the complete lowdown on this delightful Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken recipe, it’s time to dive into the kitchen! Impress your family with your culinary skills and create a dish that’s bound to be a hit. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds! Don’t forget to share your results in the comments, and enjoy every delicious bite together. Happy cooking!