Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

One evening, as I rummaged through my kitchen, I stumbled upon some fresh ingredients that sparked a burst of inspiration. With a couple of chicken breasts and a medley of colorful vegetables, I knew I was ready to whip up a dish that has become a family favorite: Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with vibrant colors and flavors that dance on your palate. I remember the first time I tried it; the sweet notes of honey complemented by the savory depth of sesame oil took me on a culinary journey. Every bite became an exploration of textures and tastes, from the tender chicken to the crisp green beans. Cooking it feels less like a chore and more like a joyful expression of creativity. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

Understanding the philosophy behind each ingredient in Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry is key to creating a cohesive dish. The combination of fresh vegetables and lean chicken provides a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, while the sauce ties everything together beautifully. Here’s a closer look at the essential components:

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, they soak up the sauce and become tender and juicy.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides a subtle kick.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken.
• 2 tbsp Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt: Adds richness and flavor to the stir fry.
• 2 cups fresh green beans: Crisp and tender, they add a refreshing crunch.
• 1 yellow bell pepper: Sweet and colorful, it brightens up the dish.
• 1 tsp sesame oil: Imparts a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 2 tsp minced garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the taste and aroma.
• 1 tsp minced ginger: Adds warmth and complexity.
• 1 tsp sesame seeds: A delightful garnish that adds both crunch and flavor.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and enhances the broth’s flavor.
• 3 tbsp honey: The sweet star that brings everything together.
• 1 tbsp sugar: Balances the savory elements with additional sweetness.
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar: Offers a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds depth and saltiness to the dish.
• pinch of red pepper flakes: A touch of heat to elevate the flavor.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch: Used again to help thicken the sauce.

Recipe Directions for Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

Making Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry is a fun and interactive process. I love how each step reveals the transformation of simple ingredients into a delightful meal. Follow these steps to create this delicious dish:

1. Start by combining the chicken breast strips, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a large bowl. Mix them well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it sit for a moment while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Heat a large non-stick pan or wok over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt. As it melts, it will create a rich base for your stir-fry. Toss in the green beans and stir-fry them until they are tender and slightly charred, which takes about 5 minutes. You want them to have a nice bright green color and retain a bit of crunch.
3. Add in the yellow bell pepper strips and continue to stir-fry for an additional 3 minutes. The peppers should be tender but still vibrant in color. Once done, transfer the veggies to a plate and keep them warm.
4. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt along with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over medium heat. This combination will help to develop a wonderful flavor as you cook the chicken. When the butter has melted, add the chicken breast strips in a single layer.
5. Cook the chicken on all sides until it’s browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a nice golden color and is no longer pink inside. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to the plate with the veggies and keep warm.
6. In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, honey, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and any optional red pepper flakes. Whisk them together to create a delicious sauce that combines sweetness and savory depth.
7. Return the wok to the stove and toss in the minced garlic and minced ginger. Sauté them until fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn them; you want to keep that lovely aroma!
8. Pour in the sauce mixture, but reserve about 2 tablespoons of it for later. Heat the sauce in the wok, stirring occasionally, until it begins to simmer and the flavors meld together. This should take about 3 minutes.
9. To the reserved sauce, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and whisk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering sauce in the wok. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency—this should take just a few minutes.
10. Finally, add the chicken and veggies back to the wok. Gently stir them to coat everything in the thick, luscious sauce. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for that extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve the dish hot, and enjoy every bite of your homemade Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry!

Helpful Hints

Cooking Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry is a breeze with these helpful hints. Here’s how to make it even better:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the flavors.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately from the vegetables to keep everything fresh.
• Pairing: Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also add a side of spring rolls for extra crunch.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for different textures and flavors.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your family’s heat preference. You can also serve it with sliced chili for those who like it spicy.

What Goes Well With This Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

This Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry is not just a standout on its own; it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Here are some suggestions:

• Steamed Rice: The classic companion to any stir fry, fluffy rice absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Lo Mein Noodles: For a heartier meal, serve with lo mein noodles tossed in a light soy sauce.
• Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer that complements the flavors of the stir fry.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the dish.
• Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even meal prep for lunches throughout the week.
• Seasonal Pairing: This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, but it especially shines in the warmer months with fresh, seasonal vegetables.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary experience. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days, yet special enough to impress guests. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its vibrant, flavorful goodness. You’ll find that it’s not just a meal; it’s a favorite that will keep your family coming back for more!

Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

The ultimate comfort food that combines sweet and savory flavors, Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry is an easy weeknight dinner you'll crave! Juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables come together in a sticky sauce that's simply irresistible.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt
• 2 cups fresh green beans
• 1 large yellow bell pepper
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• pinch red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp cornstarch

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Blender
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Combine the chicken breast strips, garlic powder, salt, black pepper and 1 tbsp cornstarch in a bowl and stir to coat. Set aside.
2. Heat a large non-stick pan or wok over medium heat and add 1 tbsp Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt. Toss in the green beans and stir fry, until beans are tender and slightly charred (about 5 minutes). Add in the yellow pepper strips and cook an additional 3 minutes, until tender. Transfer veggies to a plate and return wok to stove top.
3. Add in another tablespoon of Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt along with 1 tsp sesame oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken breast strips on all sides, until browned and heated through. Transfer to the plate with the veggies and keep warm.
4. Combine the chicken broth, honey, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil and red pepper flakes (optional) in a small dish and whisk to combine.
5. Return the wok to the stove top over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic and minced ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
6. Pour in the sauce mixture, reserving about 2 tbsp of the sauce. Heat in the wok, until flavors have blended and sauce is simmering, about 3 minutes.
7. To the leftover 2 tbsp of sauce, add in the remaining 2 tbsp cornstarch and whisk to combine. Pour into the simmering sauce and stir until the sauce has thickened.
8. Add the chicken and veggies back to the wok and stir to coat. Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top and serve hot. Enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the flavors.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it's best to store the chicken and sauce separately from the vegetables to keep everything fresh.
• Pairing: Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also add a side of spring rolls for extra crunch.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for different textures and flavors.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your family’s heat preference. You can also serve it with sliced chili for those who like it spicy.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!