Skip the takeout and make this Honey Sesame Chicken at home. This version is packed with vegetables, quick to prepare, and balanced with a sweet and savory sauce—perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a satisfying lunch.
If you enjoy the honey sesame chicken from takeout restaurants but want a healthier alternative, this recipe delivers the same comforting flavors using simple, better-for-you ingredients. It uses lean chicken breast, low-sodium broth (or water), honey, sugar snap peas, garlic, toasted sesame oil, and staple pantry items. The dish comes together in about 30 minutes and pairs well with white rice, brown rice, fried rice, cilantro lime rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Why you should make this
- Easy and quick: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this an approachable stir-fry for cooks of any level.
- Healthier than takeout: Using lean chicken, low-sodium sauces, and fresh vegetables keeps calories and sodium more controlled than many restaurant versions.
- Flavorful: A balanced sweet and savory sauce with toasted sesame oil and garlic gives great depth, while the snap peas add freshness and crunch.
Ingredients you will need
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces (or boneless skinless thighs)
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (substitute sesame oil if desired)
- 3 cups sugar snap peas, trimmed (or broccoli, green beans, asparagus, pea pods)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh minced garlic
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup, agave, or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos)
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How to make honey sesame chicken
- Cook the snap peas: Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the snap peas and sauté 2–3 minutes until just tender. Remove to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Prepare the pan: Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel, increase heat to high, and add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Season and sear the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Return the vegetables: Add the snap peas back to the pan and cook 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
- Make the sauce: In a bowl whisk together the chicken broth, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and soy sauce. In a separate small bowl, whisk 2 teaspoons cornstarch into 1 tablespoon cold water to form a slurry.
- Finish the dish: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and cook 30 seconds. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and bring to a boil; simmer 1 minute until the sauce slightly thickens and coats the chicken.
- Serve: Plate immediately and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve over your choice of rice or cauliflower rice.
How to thicken the sauce
If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more cornstarch slurry a teaspoon at a time. Mix 1–2 teaspoons cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water, stir until smooth, then add to the simmering sauce. Allow it to bubble briefly until the desired consistency is reached. Arrowroot powder or a light flour slurry can also be used but may alter texture.
Recipe notes
- Use skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor; trim excess fat if using thighs.
- Swap the chicken with shrimp, salmon bites, or thinly sliced beef for a different protein option.
- Any firm vegetable works well—broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or zucchini are great alternatives to snap peas.
- Adjust sweetness and salt to taste by varying honey and soy sauce. For heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
- To cook in an air fryer: preheat to 375°F and cook the seasoned chicken about 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, then toss with the sauce and briefly warm the vegetables.
Frequently asked questions
Honey sesame chicken is typically stir-fried chicken coated in a sauce made from honey or brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and sometimes rice vinegar or chili flakes. Vegetables such as snap peas or broccoli are commonly added.
Chewiness often results from overcooking or using a lower-quality cut of chicken. Properly cutting the chicken into uniform pieces and cooking it only until just done helps keep the meat tender.
The appeal comes from the balance of sweet and savory flavors combined with aromatic toasted sesame oil and fresh garlic, plus the contrasting textures of tender chicken and crisp vegetables.
This honey sesame chicken is a versatile, crowd-pleasing stir-fry that adapts well to different proteins and vegetables. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and ideal for those who want a quick, healthier alternative to takeout.