Baked Honey Sesame Chicken
A delightful twist on dinner with tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts The protein base of the dish.
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch Used to create a crispy coating.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a mild heat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps achieve a crispy finish.
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey Provides sweetness.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Adds depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar Contributes sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup Adds tanginess.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Brings acidity.
- 2 cloves garlic cloves Infuses warmth and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil Enhances nutty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Offers warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Provides a touch of heat.
Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons green onions Adds freshness and crunch.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Gives a delightful crunch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned chicken in a single layer on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for even cooking.
Sauce Preparation
- In a skillet, combine the remaining tablespoon of cornstarch with honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until thickened.
Finishing Touch
- Once the chicken is done baking, toss it in the skillet with the sauce and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to coat.
- Plate the dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For best results, ensure chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. Let the chicken marinate in the cornstarch mixture for a few minutes for a crispier crust. Adjust sweetness of the sauce according to preference.