Introduction to Honey Sesame Chicken from Panda Express
Introduction to the Recipe
Panda Express’s Honey Sesame Chicken has become a staple in the fast-food landscape, offering a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Originating from the innovative kitchens of Panda Express, this dish has carved its niche as a must-have for those seeking a delightful twist on classic Chinese cuisine. Its introduction brought a fresh wave of excitement to the menu, quickly ascending to the ranks of fan favorites. The dish’s popularity is not just about its taste; it’s also a testament to the craving it satisfies – a blend of crispy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Pantry Ingredients: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it an easy pick for a last-minute dinner idea.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready. This quick turnaround is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
- Customizable to Taste: Whether you prefer a bit more kick or a sweeter note, this recipe allows for easy customization to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for a Family Dinner: Serving Honey Sesame Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice makes for a complete, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
By incorporating tips from Easy Instant Pot Fried Rice Recipe, you can complement the chicken with a side that’s just as easy and delicious to prepare.
What is Honey Sesame Chicken from Panda Express?
Honey Sesame Chicken from Panda Express is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The dish features bite-sized chunks of crispy chicken coated in a rich, honey sesame sauce that’s both sweet and savory. Key flavors and ingredients include:
- Honey, for its natural sweetness
- Sesame oil and seeds, adding a nutty flavor and crunch
- Soy sauce, providing the savory depth
- A blend of garlic and chili, offering a subtle heat
This combination creates a dish that is as delightful to the palate as it is visually appealing, making it a celebrated part of the Panda Express menu and a beloved choice for many. By trying this recipe at home, you can bring a taste of Panda Express into your kitchen, offering a homemade touch to a fast-food favorite. For an added twist, explore variations like those found in Air Fryer Frozen Egg Rolls, providing the perfect accompaniment to your meal.
Ingredients and Preparations
Ingredients for Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken
Creating the perfect Honey Sesame Chicken reminiscent of Panda Express begins with assembling the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Substitutions: For a vegetarian twist, consider using firm tofu or cauliflower florets.
- Eggs: 1 large, whisked. Substitutions: Use a flaxseed egg for a vegan version.
- Corn Starch and All-Purpose Flour: For coating the chicken, providing that iconic crispiness.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying, ensuring each piece is golden and crunchy.
- Honey and Sweet Chili Sauce: The backbone of the sauce’s sweet aspect.
- Soy Sauce: Adds the savory umami flavor. Substitutions: Tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame Oil and Seeds: For that authentic sesame taste and texture.
- Garlic: Minced, adding depth to the sauce.
- Vinegar and Lemon Juice: For tanginess, balancing the sweetness.
Incorporate fresh vegetables like bell peppers and green beans, as suggested in the Mini Wontons in Air Fryer recipe, to add color and nutrition to your dish.
How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken Like Panda Express
Follow these steps to recreate the beloved Honey Sesame Chicken:
- Prep the Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces in a mixture of whisked egg, then dredge in a blend of corn starch and flour.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan and fry the chicken until golden. Ensure the oil is hot enough to seal the chicken’s exterior quickly, keeping it juicy inside.
- Craft the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine honey, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and a touch of vinegar and lemon juice. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your taste.
- Combine and Coat: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added crunch.
- Serve: Serve your Honey Sesame Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for the perfect dish:
- Ensure the chicken is dry before coating to achieve the crispiest texture.
- Adjust the heat when frying to prevent the chicken from burning.
- For an extra flavor boost, let the chicken marinate in the egg mixture for 30 minutes before coating.
Creating this dish at home allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking, ensuring a meal that’s both delicious and tailored to your preferences. Enjoy the process and the delightful result of your homemade Honey Sesame Chicken.
Cooking Tips and Serving Suggestions
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Customizing your Honey Sesame Chicken recipe adds a personal touch that can cater to various taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas to make this dish your own:
- For a spicier version, add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian variant.
- Add a variety of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to increase the nutritional value.
When it comes to serving, Honey Sesame Chicken pairs wonderfully with a range of sides. Consider the following:
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic base.
- Lo mein noodles for a hearty meal.
- A side of Air Fryer Frozen Egg Rolls or steamed dumplings for a complete feast.
- For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes an excellent substitute.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing and reheating Honey Sesame Chicken properly ensures that your leftovers remain just as delicious as when they were freshly made. Follow these best practices:
- Storage: Cool the chicken completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain the chicken’s crispiness, reheat it in the oven at 350°F until it’s heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, for a quick method, microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes, though this may soften the crust slightly.
For additional tips on preserving the freshness and flavor of your meal, consider exploring recipes that emphasize ingredient longevity, such as those found in Mini Wontons in Air Fryer, which offer insights into making dishes that are both delicious and storage-friendly.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the chicken as a healthier alternative to frying. To ensure it’s still crispy, coat the chicken pieces in a light layer of oil before baking. Set your oven to 400°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This method will not only reduce the dish’s overall fat content but also maintain the crispiness that is characteristic of Honey Sesame Chicken.
What sides go well with honey sesame chicken?
Honey Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some recommendations:
- Steamed or fried rice serves as a traditional base that absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
- Noodles, such as chow mein or lo mein, add a different texture and richness to the meal.
- Vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or a stir-fry mix can balance the meal with freshness and a crunch.
- For a unique twist, serve with a side of Instant Pot Fried Rice to keep the flavors Asian-inspired yet convenient.
What is the difference between honey sesame chicken and orange chicken?
The main difference lies in the sauce. Honey Sesame Chicken features a sweet and savory sauce with honey and sesame oil as key ingredients, providing a rich, nutty flavor. Orange Chicken, on the other hand, boasts a tangy and sweet sauce, with orange juice and zest lending a citrusy profile. Both dishes have crispy chicken but diverge significantly in their flavor profiles, with one leaning towards nutty and sweet and the other towards citrus and sweetness.
What happened to honey sesame chicken at Panda Express?
Honey Sesame Chicken was a limited-time offering that gained significant popularity among Panda Express patrons. Despite its success, the dish was rotated out of the menu to make room for new and seasonal items. However, due to its popularity, it makes periodic comebacks, delighting fans who crave its unique taste. For those who miss it, creating a homemade version allows you to enjoy this beloved dish anytime.
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Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe Panda Express
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Honey Sesame Chicken recipe captures the beloved flavors of Panda Express at home. With crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence in one dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup flour
- Oil for frying
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Coat chicken pieces in the mixture of eggs, cornstarch, and flour.
- Fry chicken until golden and set aside.
- Combine sauce ingredients in a pan and bring to a simmer.
- Toss fried chicken in the sauce and garnish with sesame seeds.
Notes
- For a healthier version, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Customize the sauce by adjusting sweetness or adding heat.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying/Baking
- Cuisine: American Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per serving
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg