Name: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 1 lb chicken breast; 1 large egg; ½ tsp salt; 1 pinch black pepper; ½ cup cornstarch; ¼ cup flour; 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; For Honey Sesame Sauce:; 1¼ cup Sweet chili sauce; ¼ cup honey; ⅓ cup water; 2 tbsp white vinegar; 2 tbsp lemon juice; ⅛ tsp salt; 2 tsp low sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp cornstarch; For Finishing:; 1 lb string beans; 1 yellow bell pepper; 2 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp white sesame seeds

Experience the taste of your favourite Panda Express dish at home with this Honey Sesame Chicken Breast recipe. This is not just a copycat recipe; it's a reinvention of a beloved dish, bringing together tender chicken, a sweet and tangy sauce, and vibrant vegetables for a meal that's sure to impress.

Photos of Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in your pantry or local supermarket. However, sweet chili sauce and low sodium soy sauce might not be common in every household. You can find them in the Asian aisle of most supermarkets. String beans might also be a seasonal vegetable in some areas. You can substitute them with any green beans.

Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken Breast Recipe

Chicken breast: The star of the dish, chicken breast is lean and high in protein.

Egg: Provides moisture and helps the flour mixture adhere to the chicken.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Cornstarch: Helps to create a crispy coating for the chicken and thickens the sauce.

Flour: Combined with cornstarch for a light, crispy coating.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken.

Sweet chili sauce: Imparts a sweet and spicy flavor to the sauce.

Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the heat in the sauce.

White vinegar: Provides tanginess to the sauce.

Lemon juice: Gives a fresh, zesty flavor.

Low sodium soy sauce: Adds a rich, umami flavor.

String beans: Adds a crunch and bright green color. Can be substituted with green beans.

Yellow bell pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor and vibrant color.

Sesame oil: Imparts a nutty flavor.

White sesame seeds: Used for garnish, and they add a slight crunch and aesthetically pleasing look.

One reader, Jelene Carr says:

This honey sesame chicken breast recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are spot-on, and it's so easy to make at home. The sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and the crispy chicken is simply irresistible. It's a definite winner for a homemade takeout night!

Jelene Carr

Techniques Required

How to coat the chicken breast: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of oil until well combined.

How to make the honey sesame sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweet chili sauce, honey, water, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until it thickens.

How to fry the chicken: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large Dutch oven or wok to 375 degrees F. Dip the chicken pieces in the egg mixture, then dredge them in the flour mixture. Fry the chicken in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spatula to remove the chicken, allowing excess oil to drain.

How to stir-fry the vegetables: After frying the chicken, drain most of the oil from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Stir-fry the string beans and bell pepper strips for 30 seconds.

How to finish the dish: Add the cooked chicken, sesame oil, and honey sesame sauce to the pan with the stir-fried vegetables. Toss quickly to combine, then remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

How To Make Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat)

Enjoy a savory Asian dish with this honey sesame chicken from Panda Express. It’s tossed in a sweet chili sauce, served with bell peppers and green beans.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1lbchicken breast,boneless skinless, cut into 1-inch chunks
1large egg
½tspsalt
1pinchblack pepper
½cupcornstarch
¼cupflour
1tbspvegetable oil,plus more for frying

For Honey Sesame Sauce:

1¼cupsweet chili sauce
¼cuphoney
⅓cupwater
2tbspwhite vinegar
2tbsplemon juice
⅛tspsalt
2tsplow sodium soy sauce
2tspcornstarch

For Finishing:

1lbstring beans,trimmed
1yellow bell pepper,sliced thinly
2tspsesame oil
1tspwhite sesame seeds

Instructions

To coat the chicken breast, add the egg, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon oil into a medium bowl and whisk together well.
In a second bowl, add ½ cup corn starch and ¼ cup flour and mix.
In a large dutch oven or a wok, heat about 2 inches of oil to 375 degrees F.
Dip chicken pieces in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture.
Fry the chicken in batches for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden and crisp then remove with a slotted spatula, draining the oil well.
To make the sauce, combine the sweet chili sauce, honey, water, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook until it thickens (don’t make the sauce in the chicken pan).
When done with the chicken, drain most of the oil from the pan (leave about 2 tablespoons).
Stir fry the string beans and bell pepper strips for 30 seconds, then add in the cooked chicken, sesame oil, and the honey sesame sauce and toss quickly to combine.
Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 378.51kcal
Fat: 12.34g
Saturated Fat: 2.76g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.98g
Carbohydrates: 45.27g
Fiber: 6.04g
Sugar: 20.24g
Protein: 20.78g
Cholesterol: 79.38mg
Sodium: 882.02mg
Calcium: 64.03mg
Potassium: 640.03mg
Iron: 2.36mg
Vitamin A: 80.38µg
Vitamin C: 77.25mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

When frying the chicken, ensure that the oil is heated to the correct temperature before adding the chicken. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly and becomes crispy without burning. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken may absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it's too hot, the chicken may burn on the outside before it's fully cooked on the inside. A kitchen thermometer can be a handy tool to check the oil temperature.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Panda Express Copycat Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Organize ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is frying, start preparing the honey sesame sauce to save time.

Use ready-made sauce: Consider using store-bought sweet chili sauce to cut down on preparation time.

Invest in a deep fryer: Using a deep fryer can speed up the frying process and ensure even cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe

chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken breast, providing a similar texture and protein content. It also absorbs flavors well, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent similar to cornstarch. It has a neutral flavor and works well in sauces and coatings.
flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour, providing a similar crispy texture when used as a coating for the chicken.
sweet chili sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce offers a sweet and tangy flavor similar to sweet chili sauce, making it a suitable substitute for creating a flavorful glaze for the chicken.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener in place of honey, providing a similar level of sweetness and contributing to the caramelization of the chicken.
white vinegar - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar can be used as a milder alternative to white vinegar, adding a tangy flavor to the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a similar level of acidity and citrusy flavor to the sauce.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce, can be used as a substitute for traditional soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor to the dish.
sesame oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for sesame oil, offering a mild flavor and high smoke point for stir-frying the vegetables and chicken.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds, providing a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.

Best Way to Present Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

Elevate the plating: When presenting the honey sesame chicken breast, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Carefully arrange the chicken, string beans, and bell pepper strips to create a balanced and inviting presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant colors by garnishing the dish with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or chives, to add a pop of green against the golden chicken and colorful bell peppers. This will enhance the visual appeal and make the dish more enticing.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and allow the elements of the dish to shine, creating a sophisticated and refined presentation.
Focus on symmetry: Arrange the components of the dish with precision and attention to symmetry. This will create a visually pleasing and harmonious presentation that showcases the culinary expertise and attention to detail.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element, such as toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried noodles, to provide textural contrast and elevate the overall dining experience.
Highlight the sauce: Drizzle the honey sesame sauce strategically on the plate to add a touch of elegance and to showcase the flavors of the dish. Use a squeeze bottle for precise application.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the dish, such as minimalist white plates or sleek, modern plating options, to elevate the overall presentation.
Garnish with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with edible flowers, such as micro orchids or pansies, to add a delicate and visually stunning element to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

Dutch oven or wok: A large, heavy-bottomed pot or pan used for deep-frying, braising, and stir-frying.
Medium bowl: A bowl used for mixing and whisking ingredients together.
Second bowl: Another bowl used for mixing dry ingredients.
Saucepan: A small, deep pan with a long handle, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Slotted spatula: A spatula with slots or holes to drain excess oil or liquid from food.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients together.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients.
Spatula: A flat, flexible tool used for flipping and lifting food.
Serving plate: A plate used for presenting and serving the finished dish.

How To Store and Freeze Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

Let the honey sesame chicken cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen honey sesame chicken can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent overheating and ensure even distribution of heat.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a small amount of water or chicken broth to thin it out and restore its original consistency.
Serve the reheated honey sesame chicken over freshly cooked rice or noodles for the best taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

To reheat leftover honey sesame chicken breast, the best method is to use a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through and crispy. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out and coat the chicken evenly.
Another option is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the chicken loosely with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to crisp up the exterior.
For a quick and easy method, you can also use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the chicken moist during reheating. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the chicken halfway through to ensure even heating. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover string beans and bell peppers, you can reheat them alongside the chicken. In a skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are heated through and slightly crisp. Add the reheated chicken and toss everything together with the remaining sauce.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, it's essential to reheat the chicken and vegetables separately from the sauce. If the sauce is too thick after reheating, add a small amount of water or chicken broth to thin it out. Once the chicken and vegetables are heated through, toss them with the warm sauce and serve immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Random Fact About Honey Sesame Chicken Breast

Panda Express is a popular American Chinese fast-food chain that was established in 1983. It is known for its wide variety of dishes, including the famous Honey Sesame Chicken Breast. This dish is a delicious combination of crispy chicken, sweet honey, and savory sesame flavors. It's a favorite among many customers and has become a signature item on the menu.

Is Making Honey Sesame Chicken Breast at Home Economical?

This honey sesame chicken breast recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken breast, string beans, and bell pepper, are affordable and readily available. The addition of honey and sesame seeds may slightly increase the cost, but they are versatile ingredients that can be used in various other dishes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall, this recipe offers great value for money, with a delicious and satisfying meal that would easily score an 8 out of 10.

Is This Panda Express Copycat Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The honey sesame chicken breast recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The chicken is coated in a flour and cornstarch mixture and deep-fried, which adds unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats.
The sauce contains a significant amount of sweet chili sauce and honey, which are high in sugar and can contribute to excessive calorie intake.
The recipe lacks a substantial amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

To make this recipe healthier, several modifications can be made:

Instead of deep-frying the chicken, try grilling, baking, or stir-frying it with a minimal amount of oil. This will significantly reduce the calorie and fat content.
Reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce and honey in the sauce, and replace some of it with low-sodium chicken broth to maintain flavor while cutting down on sugar and calories.
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the dish. Consider adding carrots, broccoli, or bok choy to boost the nutrient content and provide a more balanced meal.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of serving the dish on its own, as these whole grains provide additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.

By incorporating these changes, you can transform this honey sesame chicken breast recipe into a healthier, more well-rounded meal that still satisfies your taste buds.

Editor's Thoughts on This Honey Sesame Chicken Breast Recipe

The honey sesame chicken breast recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The crispy chicken, coated in a flavorful egg and cornstarch mixture, pairs perfectly with the luscious honey sesame sauce. The addition of string beans and bell peppers adds a refreshing crunch to the dish. The use of sweet chili sauce, honey, and soy sauce creates a harmonious blend of Asian-inspired tastes. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and satisfying culinary experience that is sure to impress your guests.

Enhance Your Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and butter, topped with chives for a burst of flavor.

Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Crispy brussel sprouts roasted to perfection with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy kick.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a light honey-lime dressing, perfect for a sweet and juicy side dish.

Creamy Corn Chowder: A velvety smooth corn chowder with chunks of tender potatoes and savory bacon, topped with a sprinkle of fresh chives for a comforting and hearty addition to your meal.

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Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Panda Express Copycat Recipe

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke with a blend of cheeses for a rich and savory appetizer that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs to stuff into tender mushroom caps, then bake until golden and delicious for a satisfying and elegant appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat) Recipe:

This recipe for honey sesame chicken breast is a delicious and flavorful dish that will surely impress your taste buds. The combination of crispy chicken breast coated in a perfect blend of cornstarch and flour and then tossed in a mouthwatering honey sesame sauce creates a delightful harmony of textures and flavors. The use of sweet chili sauce, honey, and soy sauce in the sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The addition of string beans and bell pepper not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a nutritious and colorful touch to the dish. With the careful instructions provided, you can trust that this recipe will yield a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Share your thoughts on the Honey Sesame Chicken Breast (Panda Express Copycat) recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried and how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make the honey sesame sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey sesame sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently before using.

Can I substitute the sweet chili sauce with something else?

If you don't have sweet chili sauce, you can substitute it with a combination of ketchup, honey, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a similar sweet and spicy flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring that the cornstarch and flour used for coating the chicken are also gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to customize the dish to your liking. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.