This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken with a deliciously sweet honey glaze and crunchy sesame seeds for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a quick weeknight favorite that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Start by mixing the honey, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Sriracha, and sesame oil in a medium bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cold water, cornstarch, and half a teaspoon of salt, then stir this into the honey sauce mixture. Set it aside for now.
Season the chicken with a quarter teaspoon each of salt and garlic powder. In a large bowl, beat the egg and add the remaining salt and garlic powder. Stir in the flour, then combine the water and cornstarch in another bowl and add that to the egg mixture, mixing everything until smooth. Finally, stir in the avocado oil and baking powder.
Heat about three inches of peanut oil in a wide, deep pot to 325°F (165°C). Dip half of the chicken pieces into the batter, making sure they’re well coated, then carefully drop spoonfuls into the hot oil. Fry in batches without crowding the pot, cooking each piece until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about a minute on each side. Drain the cooked chicken on paper towels and keep an eye on the oil temperature between batches.
Pour the honey sauce into a large skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Add all the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and toss them around until they’re nicely coated. Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds on top before serving.
- Use fresh chicken for the best texture and flavor.
- Toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding them to enhance their aroma.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully develop.
This dish combines the rich sweetness of honey with the nutty crunch of sesame seeds, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to make and always feels special, making it great for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.
Serve this dish over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro can brighten the flavors and add a fresh touch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to keep the chicken tender and avoid drying out the sauce.
