Why You’ll Love Baked Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe
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A healthier alternative to traditional fried sesame chicken
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Perfect balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce
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Baked to perfection with a thick, glossy sauce
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Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
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Great for meal prep and family dinners
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Pairs beautifully with rice and steamed vegetables
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
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
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Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dip each piece into cornstarch, then into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a slightly crisp exterior. Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking dish.
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In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, sesame oil, and minced garlic until smooth.
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In another small bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water. Stir this mixture into the sauce to help it thicken while baking.
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Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds across the top.
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Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened into a glossy glaze.
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Serve hot with rice and steamed vegetables, if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Variations
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Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
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Stir in chopped green onions before serving for added freshness.
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Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
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Add broccoli or bell peppers to the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal.
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Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally to evenly distribute the sauce.
This dish also freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I skip browning the chicken before baking?
Browning adds texture and flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can place the coated chicken directly in the baking dish and bake a little longer.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and brown the chicken in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
What can I serve with honey sesame chicken?
Steamed white rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, or stir-fried vegetables all pair beautifully.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If needed, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce, then bake a few minutes longer.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat it dry before coating and cooking.
Is this recipe very sweet?
It has a balanced sweet and savory flavor. You can reduce the honey slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
Can I make it dairy-free?
The recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.
What type of sesame oil should I use?
Toasted sesame oil provides the richest flavor and works best in this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Simply use a larger baking dish and ensure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Conclusion
Baked Honey Sesame Chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that brings together tender chicken and a glossy honey sesame glaze in every bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a delicious homemade alternative to takeout that your whole family will love.
