Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat

If you’ve ever craved the sweet and savory goodness of takeout, then Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat is the recipe for you! Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and the thought of cooking feels overwhelming. But then you remember this incredible recipe that can bring that restaurant flavor right into your kitchen without the hassle of ordering in. This dish is a delightful combination of crispy, golden chicken tossed in a sticky, honey sesame sauce that’s simply irresistible. And the best part? You can make it all in your own home!

As I first experimented with this recipe, I was taken back to my college days when takeout was a staple in my diet. The moments spent enjoying that warm, hearty meal, surrounded by friends, sparked a sense of nostalgia. With this Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat recipe, I can recreate those memories while putting a homemade twist on it. The ingredients meld together beautifully, and the colors of the fresh vegetables make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also offers an opportunity to gather your loved ones around the dinner table. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or even a cozy weekend treat. So, let’s dive into this culinary adventure and bring the taste of Panda Express right into your kitchen!

Ingredients to Make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat

When creating the Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The combination of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice makes this dish truly special.

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil – This nutty oil is essential for that authentic Asian flavor.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Adds a punch of flavor to the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes – Provides a gentle heat that balances the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup water – Helps to create the sauce’s perfect consistency.
• 1/4 cup white sugar – Sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Brings umami to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar – Adds acidity to brighten the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water – Used to thicken the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice – Adds a refreshing tang.
• 1 egg – Binds the coating on the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Additional seasoning for the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper – Adds a subtle spice.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus additional for frying – Necessary for deep frying the chicken.
• 1 cup cornstarch – Creates a crispy coating for the chicken.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the chicken coating.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces – The star of the dish, juicy and tender.
• vegetable oil for frying – Essential for achieving that golden crust.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – For cooking the vegetables.
• 1 yellow bell pepper diced – Adds sweetness and color.
• 8 ounces string beans cut into 2-inch pieces – Adds crunch and a vibrant green color.
• sesame seeds for garnish – A beautiful finishing touch.
• Cooked rice for serving – Complements the dish perfectly.

Recipe Steps for Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat

Creating this dish is a straightforward process that results in an impressive meal. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a homemade version of Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat that will wow everyone!

1. Start by making the sauce. In a small saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the garlic to become fragrant. This is crucial as it builds the base of flavor for your sauce.
2. Add 1/4 cup of water, 1/4 cup of white sugar, and 1 tablespoon of honey to the pan. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. You want to ensure that the sugar fully dissolves, creating a smooth sauce.
3. Once simmering, incorporate 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take around 1 to 2 minutes. Finally, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice. Set this sauce aside.
4. Now, let’s prepare the chicken. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground white pepper, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. This mixture will coat the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
5. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of cornstarch and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. This will be your dredging mixture. It’s crucial for achieving that crispy coating that we all love.
6. Take the pieces of chicken and dip them into the egg mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess before dredging them in the cornstarch and flour mixture. Press down lightly so that the coating adheres well to the chicken. This step is essential for a great crispy texture.
7. In a deep fryer or a Dutch oven, heat enough vegetable oil for frying to 350°F. To test if the oil is ready, you can drop a small piece of the coated chicken in; it should sizzle immediately.
8. Working in batches, drop the dredged chicken pieces into the hot oil one at a time. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set inside a sheet pan, allowing excess oil to drain.
9. Now, it’s time to assemble the dish. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced 1 yellow bell pepper and cook until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add 8 ounces of string beans and cook until they’re lightly blistered, around 2 minutes.
10. Stir in the sauce you made earlier and bring it to a boil. This step melds the sweet and savory flavors together beautifully. Finally, add the crispy chicken to the skillet and toss everything to coat.
11. Serve the Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat over hot cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds. Enjoy your homemade version of this classic dish!

Make It Your Own

One of the joys of cooking is personalizing recipes to suit your tastes. Here are some tips for making Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat your own!

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken, but it’s best to freeze it without the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat and add the sauce fresh.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Spice Level: If you enjoy spice, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Vegetable Variations: Experiment with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to add more color and flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: You can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free flour for dredging.

Pairing Suggestions for Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat

When it comes to enjoying your Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat, the right accompaniments can elevate the entire experience. Here are some fantastic pairing suggestions:

• Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or bok choy for a nutritious addition that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Rice Options: While classic white rice works well, consider trying jasmine or brown rice for a different texture and flavor.
• Salad Pairing: A fresh cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette can be a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy date night.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in a skillet to maintain that crispy texture.
• Seasonal Pairings: During summer, try serving it with a chilled noodle salad for a light meal!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat recipe brings the beloved flavors of takeout right to your kitchen, making it a wonderful choice for any meal. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and customizable, allowing you to enjoy a healthier version of your favorite dish. So why not give it a try tonight? You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple and satisfying it can be!

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat

If you've ever craved the sweet and savory goodness of takeout, then making Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat is the perfect way to satisfy that desire! This delicious dish combines crispy chicken with a sticky honey sesame sauce, making it a delightful weeknight dinner that will impress your family. Why order in when you can whip this up at home?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus additional for frying
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
• vegetable oil for frying
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 8 ounces string beans cut into 2-inch pieces
• sesame seeds for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Equipment

• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Start by making the sauce. In a small saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the garlic to become fragrant. This is crucial as it builds the base of flavor for your sauce.
2. Add 1/4 cup of water, 1/4 cup of white sugar, and 1 tablespoon of honey to the pan. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. You want to ensure that the sugar fully dissolves, creating a smooth sauce.
3. Once simmering, incorporate 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take around 1 to 2 minutes. Finally, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice. Set this sauce aside.
4. Now, let's prepare the chicken. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground white pepper, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. This mixture will coat the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
5. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of cornstarch and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. This will be your dredging mixture. It’s crucial for achieving that crispy coating that we all love.
6. Take the pieces of chicken and dip them into the egg mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess before dredging them in the cornstarch and flour mixture. Press down lightly so that the coating adheres well to the chicken. This step is essential for a great crispy texture.
7. In a deep fryer or a Dutch oven, heat enough vegetable oil for frying to 350°F. To test if the oil is ready, you can drop a small piece of the coated chicken in; it should sizzle immediately.
8. Working in batches, drop the dredged chicken pieces into the hot oil one at a time. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set inside a sheet pan, allowing excess oil to drain.
9. Now, it’s time to assemble the dish. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced 1 yellow bell pepper and cook until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add 8 ounces of string beans and cook until they're lightly blistered, around 2 minutes.
10. Stir in the sauce you made earlier and bring it to a boil. This step melds the sweet and savory flavors together beautifully. Finally, add the crispy chicken to the skillet and toss everything to coat.
11. Serve the Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Copycat over hot cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds. Enjoy your homemade version of this classic dish!

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the chicken's crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken, but it’s best to freeze it without the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat and add the sauce fresh.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Spice Level: If you enjoy spice, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Vegetable Variations: Experiment with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to add more color and flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: You can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free flour for dredging.

Previous PostPastelon de Yuca

Next Post Piada Chicken Tenders

Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.