Name: Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 2 large eggs, beaten; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Why You’ll Love Baked Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

This Baked Honey Sesame Chicken offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors—all without the need for deep frying. It’s healthier than takeout, easy to make, and delivers a comforting, restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether you’re cooking for the family or entertaining guests, this dish will surely become a household favorite. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or a side of veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set it aside.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dip each piece first into the cornstarch, then coat with beaten eggs.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
In another bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water. Add this slurry to the sauce mixture and stir well.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Serve hot with rice and steamed vegetables, if desired.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

Make it spicy: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the honey mixture.
Use thighs instead of breasts: Chicken thighs offer a juicier alternative and add more flavor.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Vegetarian twist: Substitute chicken with cauliflower florets or tofu and follow the same method.
Add vegetables: Toss in bell peppers or snap peas before baking for a more complete one-pan dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal, but thighs can also be used for added juiciness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and bake when ready to serve.

Is this dish very sweet?

The honey gives it a natural sweetness, but the soy sauce and garlic balance it out. You can adjust the honey amount to your taste.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil can be used instead of vegetable oil.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the meat should no longer be pink inside.

Can I skip the cornstarch coating?

The cornstarch helps create a crispy texture and helps the sauce stick, but you can omit it for a lighter version.

What should I serve with honey sesame chicken?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles pair well. Add a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Skip the skillet step and proceed to bake with the sauce.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Ensure the cornstarch slurry is fully mixed in and bake uncovered. You can also simmer the sauce on the stove before baking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The sweet and savory flavors are typically a hit with kids. Omit any added spice for younger palates.

Conclusion

Baked Honey Sesame Chicken is a deliciously simple way to enjoy Asian-inspired flavors at home without the extra oil from frying. With its sticky glaze, crispy chicken, and satisfying taste, it’s a meal that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.