Panda Express Copycat Honey Sesame Chicken

This honey sesame chicken recipe is inspired by Panda Express, but made with healthier ingredients and without the hefty price tag. Crispy chicken, a sweet and tangy honey sesame sauce, and fresh stir-fried veggies make this dish absolutely delicious. Best of all, it takes just 25 minutes to make!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Sesame Sauce

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

   • In a large bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour.
   • Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the cornstarch-flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated.

2. Fry the Chicken

   • Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
   • Once the oil reaches 350°F, fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
   • Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
   • In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey sauce mixture and water, bringing it to a simmer.
   • Add the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

   • In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add the bell pepper and green beans, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

5. Combine Everything

   • Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the vegetables.
   • Pour the honey sesame sauce over the top and toss everything together until well-coated and heated through.
   • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

This crispy, sweet, and savory honey sesame chicken is perfect over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy a better-than-takeout meal right at home!