How to Make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken at Home

Ever wondered how to make your favorite Chinese takeout at home? The Panda Express honey sesame chicken recipe is a dream for many home cooks. I remember the first time I made it – it was amazing to turn simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal.

This Chinese takeout copycat recipe is more than just a craving. It lets you make restaurant-quality food at home. Whether you’re new to cooking or experienced, this guide will help you make the best Panda Express honey sesame chicken.

Key Takeaways

• Master the authentic Panda Express honey sesame chicken recipe at home
• Save money by creating restaurant-quality Chinese takeout
• Control ingredients and customize flavor to your preference
• Impress family and friends with professional cooking skills
• Learn professional cooking techniques for crispy chicken

What Makes Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Special

Explore the world of Americanized Chinese food with Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken. This dish is loved by many in the United States. It’s known for its unique flavors and delicious texture.

A mouthwatering Panda Express-style honey sesame chicken dish, freshly prepared with crisp golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a glossy, aromatic honey-sesame sauce. The chicken is arranged artfully on a white ceramic plate, garnished with vibrant green scallions, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for visual interest. The plate is set against a clean, minimalist background, allowing the dish to take center stage. Soft, natural lighting casts a warm, inviting glow over the scene, highlighting the delicate textures and vibrant colors of the chicken and garnishes. The overall mood is one of culinary excellence and appetizing appeal.

The Secret Behind Its Popularity

The sesame chicken recipe is a favorite in America for good reasons. It has a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory tastes that excite your taste buds. It’s a mix of traditional Chinese cooking and American tastes.

• Approachable flavor profile
• Crispy chicken texture
• Versatile meal option
• Family-friendly recipe

Signature Flavor Profile

The dish’s unique taste comes from its harmonious blend of ingredients. Honey adds sweetness, and sesame seeds give a nutty crunch. The crispy chicken in a glossy sauce makes it a treat to eat.

Restaurant vs Homemade Version

Making a homemade version of sesame chicken lets you tweak flavors and use better ingredients. You can change the spice, cut down on salt, and use fresh ingredients. This is hard to do in a fast-food place.

Essential Ingredients for Restaurant-Style Results

A neatly arranged collection of essential ingredients for restaurant-style sesame chicken: sliced chicken breasts, sesame seeds, garlic cloves, fresh ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and a sprinkle of sesame oil. The ingredients are displayed on a rustic wooden surface, with natural lighting casting warm shadows and highlighting the textures. The overall composition suggests a homemade, authentic preparation, ready to be transformed into a delicious, flavor-packed dish.

To make authentic restaurant-style sesame chicken, you need the right ingredients. Start with fresh, high-quality parts that bring Panda Express’s taste to your home.

For the chicken, pick boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. The quality of the meat affects the dish’s texture and taste.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

• Chicken protein selection
• Cornstarch for crispy coating
• Sesame seeds
• Honey for sweetness
• Soy sauce

Your kitchen should have certain ingredients to make your chicken dish special:

Professional chefs know that ingredient quality is key. Use fresh, premium ingredients to make your meal stand out.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make a tasty crispy chicken recipe like Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken, you need the right tools. The right equipment is key to success. Let’s look at the essential tools for making restaurant-quality food at home.

Cooking great chicken starts with the right tools. The quality of your cookware affects the texture and flavor of your dish.

Must-Have Utensils for Perfect Chicken

• Sharp chef’s knife for precise cutting
• Large mixing bowls for marinating
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer
• Deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed skillet
• Tongs for handling chicken
• Paper towels for draining excess oil

Optional but Helpful Tools

• Splatter screen to prevent oil mess
• Wire cooling rack
• Digital kitchen scale for precise measurements
• Kitchen timer

Wok vs Regular Pan: Making the Right Choice

A traditional wok is great for stir-frying, but a regular deep skillet works well for crispy chicken. The important thing is to keep the oil temperature steady and have enough room for even cooking.

Professional chefs suggest using a cast-iron skillet or a carbon steel pan. These pans give the best heat distribution and crispy results for your panda express menu hacks.

Preparing the Perfect Chicken Marinade

Making a tasty honey garlic chicken begins with a great marinade. This marinade is your secret ingredient. It turns simple chicken into a dish that wows everyone at dinner.

For a perfect honey garlic chicken marinade, pick your ingredients wisely and time it right. You want to add lots of flavor without making the chicken tough or dry.

• Select boneless, skinless chicken thighs for best results
• Ensure ingredients are at room temperature
• Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor intensity

Here are the key marinade parts:

1. Soy sauce for depth of flavor
2. Honey for natural sweetness
3. Minced garlic for aromatic punch
4. Rice vinegar for subtle tanginess

How long you marinate is important for flavor. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Longer can make the meat too soft. Always keep it in the fridge to stay safe.

Remember, never use the marinade again. This keeps your food safe from harmful bacteria.

Creating the Signature Honey Sesame Sauce

Making the perfect sauce is key to a great panda express honey sesame chicken recipe. It’s all about finding the right balance of flavors. This turns a simple dish into a restaurant-quality meal.

Your honey sesame sauce needs careful attention to get that perfect mix of sweet and savory. Professional chefs focus on precise measurements and top-notch ingredients.

Sauce Consistency Secrets

The sauce’s thickness is crucial for your honey garlic chicken. Here are some expert tips:

• Use cornstarch as a thickening agent
• Whisk continuously to prevent lumps
• Simmer sauce on low heat for optimal texture

Balancing Flavor Profiles

The perfect sauce combines different tastes. You want a perfectly balanced sauce. It should coat the chicken well without overpowering it.

Smart Sauce Preparation Strategies

Prepping your sauce ahead of time can make meal prep easier. Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors strong.

• Prepare sauce up to 2 days in advance
• Reheat gently before serving
• Stir well to restore original consistency

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Making the perfect sesame chicken copycat recipe needs focus and care. This dish brings the taste of a restaurant to your home. We’ll guide you through each step to get great results.

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces
2. Pat chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper
4. Coat chicken in cornstarch for extra crispiness

Cooking techniques are key for these dishes. Heat your wok or large skillet to medium-high. You want a golden-brown outside and juicy inside.

Here’s how to cook it right:

• Use vegetable oil with high smoke point
• Cook chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding
• Fry chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side
• Drain on wire rack to maintain crispiness

Watch the color and texture closely. Your chicken should look light golden-brown and crispy.

Remember, practice makes perfect with this recipe. Each try will get you better at making these tasty dishes.

Mastering the Crispy Chicken Coating Technique

Making the perfect crispy chicken recipe takes skill and precision. Restaurant-style sesame chicken needs a special coating technique. This turns regular chicken into a stunning dish.

• Use cornstarch or potato starch for maximum crispiness
• Ensure chicken pieces are thoroughly dried before coating
• Create a light, even layer of breading
• Maintain consistent oil temperature between 350-375°F

Temperature Control Tips

Oil temperature is key for your crispy chicken recipe. If the oil is too cool, chicken gets greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside burns and the inside stays raw.

Use a digital thermometer to keep oil temperature just right. For restaurant-style sesame chicken, aim for 365°F. This ensures a crispy outside and juicy inside.

Achieving the Perfect Crunch

The secret to a great crunch is in your coating technique. Double-dredging chicken pieces creates layers that crisp up well. Shake off excess coating to avoid clumps and get an even crisp.

Pro tip: Let coated chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better and adds an extra crispy layer that rivals any restaurant dish.

Sauce Application and Final Assembly

To make a true chinese takeout copycat, you need to be precise with the sauce. You want to get that Panda Express menu hack right, without losing the chicken’s crispiness.

Begin by getting a big bowl ready for sauce coating. This step is key to turning your crispy chicken into a restaurant-quality dish. Here are some expert tips for applying sauce perfectly:

• Remove chicken from hot oil and let excess oil drain
• Ensure chicken pieces are still hot and crisp
• Pour sauce gradually while gently tossing
• Coat evenly without drowning the chicken

Timing is everything here. Wait too long, and your chicken loses its crunch; rush too quickly, and the sauce won’t stick. You want to coat the chicken right after frying, keeping it golden and crispy.

To make it look like a restaurant dish, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions on top. This adds a touch that makes your homemade version look just as good as the restaurant’s.

Pro tip: Serve it right away after adding the sauce. This keeps the perfect mix of crispy texture and sweet-savory coating.

Side Dish Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right side dishes can make your easy Asian chicken dishes special. When you make americanized Chinese food like Honey Sesame Chicken, picking the right sides can make the meal even better.

The best side dish balances flavors and textures. It makes your plate a delight for your taste buds.

Traditional Chinese Side Dishes

Classic pairings add authenticity to your meal:

• Steamed white rice
• Fried rice with vegetables
• Stir-fried green beans
• Egg drop soup

Modern Fusion Options

For something new, try these creative side dishes:

• Quinoa vegetable pilaf
• Asian slaw with citrus dressing
• Roasted sesame broccoli
• Cauliflower “fried rice”

Pro tip: Pick sides that contrast with the sweet and savory Honey Sesame Chicken. This way, you get a balanced meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect sesame chicken copycat recipe can be hard. Many home cooks face challenges that stop them from getting restaurant-quality results. Knowing these common mistakes will help you make your panda express honey sesame chicken recipe with confidence.

• Chicken Overcooking: Dry, tough chicken spoils the dish. Always watch the cooking time and use medium-high heat for juicy, tender meat.
• Incorrect Coating Technique: A soggy or too thick breading can ruin the crispy texture of authentic sesame chicken.
• Sauce Balancing Issues: Too sweet or too salty sauces can overpower the dish’s delicate flavor.

Temperature control is key when making your sesame chicken copycat recipe. Keeping the oil temperature steady prevents greasy, undercooked chicken. Use a cooking thermometer to keep oil at 350-375°F for the best crispy results.

Marinading is important for flavor. Don’t skip this step or rush it. Let chicken soak in seasonings for at least 15-20 minutes before cooking. This will improve taste and tenderness.

• Use fresh ingredients
• Avoid overcrowding the pan
• Pat chicken dry before coating
• Rest chicken after cooking

With these tips, you’ll be ready to make a tasty panda express honey sesame chicken recipe that’s just like the restaurant’s. Remember, practice and patience are essential to perfecting this beloved dish.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your chinese takeout copycat honey sesame chicken fresh is key. It’s important to store and reheat it right. This way, your sweet and savory chicken recipes stay tasty and tender.

Storing your homemade chicken right is essential. It keeps your meal fresh and tasty for longer. Follow these tips to enjoy your dish for days.

Refrigeration Techniques

• Store chicken in an airtight container
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days

Reheating Methods

Reheat your chicken with these methods:

1. Oven method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C)
2. Spread chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet
3. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying
4. Heat for 10-15 minutes until thoroughly warm

Freezing Best Practices

Pro tip: Always separate sauce from chicken before freezing. This keeps the chicken’s texture and prevents it from getting soggy.

By sticking to these storage and reheating tips, your chinese takeout copycat chicken will stay delicious. It will taste just as good as when you first made it.

Conclusion

Making a real restaurant-style sesame chicken at home is easy. Just follow the steps and tips in this guide. You can turn your kitchen into a place where food lovers gather, just like Panda Express. This recipe is more than food; it’s a chance to show off your cooking skills and wow your loved ones.

Getting it just right takes time and practice. Every time you make it, you’ll get better and understand flavors better. Be patient and keep trying. Play with the ingredients, adjust the seasonings, and add your own twist to the classic sesame chicken.

Your homemade dish will be better than takeout because you use fresh ingredients and control the cooking. With the right temperature, careful marinating, and great sauce, you’ll make a dish that’s just like Panda Express but your own. Enjoy making a tasty meal from scratch that feels like a restaurant experience at your table.

FAQ

How close is this homemade recipe to the actual Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken?

This homemade recipe is very close to Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken. It captures the sweet and crispy flavors of the original. While it’s not 100% the same, it’s very similar in taste and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour for coating and a gluten-free soy sauce. Make sure all ingredients are gluten-free for the best result.

What’s the best way to get a crispy chicken coating?

For a crispy coating, keep the oil at 350-375°F. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Use cornstarch or potato starch in your mix. Dry the chicken well before frying.

How long can I store leftovers of Honey Sesame Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep the sauce separate. Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts work too, but be careful not to overcook them. They dry out faster than thighs.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

You can use toasted sesame seeds or a neutral oil like vegetable oil if you don’t have sesame oil. Sesame oil gives a unique flavor, though.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, traditional Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken is not spicy. But you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Prepare parts ahead, like marinating the chicken and making the sauce. But fry the chicken just before serving for the best crispiness.

What’s the best way to reheat the chicken?

Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving will make the coating soggy.

Are there any low-calorie alternatives for this recipe?

For a lighter version, bake the chicken instead of frying. Use less oil and honey. This will change the texture and flavor a bit.

How to Make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken at Home

This Honey Sesame Chicken is a Panda Express copycat recipe featuring crispy battered chicken, a sticky honey-sesame glaze, and sautéed vegetables. It's the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian, Chinese

Servings 4

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup water
• Vegetable oil for frying
• For the Sauce:
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger grated
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water to thicken
• For the Stir-Fry:
• 1 small red bell pepper sliced
• 1 small yellow bell pepper sliced
• 1 cup green beans trimmed
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
• 2 green onions sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicken Batter:
• In a mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• In another bowl, whisk the egg and water.
• Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat in the flour mixture.
• Fry the Chicken:
• Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
• Make the Honey Sesame Sauce:
• In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
• Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens (1-2 minutes). Remove from heat.
• Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
• In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat.
• Add bell peppers and green beans, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
• Toss Everything Together:
• Add the fried chicken to the skillet with vegetables.
• Pour the honey sesame sauce over and toss to coat evenly.
• Garnish And Serve:
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Serve hot over steamed rice or fried rice.

Notes

• Make it healthier? Air-fry or bake the chicken at 400°F for 15 minutes instead of deep-frying.
• Spicy version? Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
• Want extra crispy chicken? Double fry the chicken pieces!

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15g

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