Honey Sesame Chicken Panda Express Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Name: Honey Sesame Chicken Panda Express Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American-Chinese
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into small pieces; 2 large eggs; 1 cup cornstarch; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup ketchup; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons water + 1 tablespoon cornstarch for the sauce; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Introduction to Panda Express and Its Popular Dishes

Panda Express, a beacon of American-Chinese cuisine, has enchanted the palates of millions with its diverse array of dishes. Among its celebrated creations, Honey Sesame Chicken stands out as a quintessential blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, making it a beloved choice for many.

The Charm of Honey Sesame Chicken

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Its unique taste profile, combining the richness of sesame oil with the sweetness of honey, has garnered a devoted following. While the original dish is no longer a staple in the United States, its legacy lives on through recipes that capture the essence of Panda Express’s creation. For an in-depth look at the nutritional content of these ingredients, visit the USDA National Nutrient Database.

Overview of Ingredients

Chicken Preparation: Small pieces of chicken breast, marinated to perfection.
Vegetables Used: Typically, yellow bell peppers and green beans, but feel free to experiment.
Sauce Ingredients: A harmonious blend of low sodium soy sauce, honey, ketchup, rice vinegar, and more.

Ensuring the safety of the chicken used in this recipe is paramount. For guidelines on safe chicken preparation, consult Food Safety Guidelines.

Preparation Steps

Marinating the Chicken:
Begin by immersing the chicken pieces in a mixture of eggs, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the mixture. This process not only seasons the chicken but also helps the batter adhere better during the frying process.

Preparing the Batter:
Prepare two separate bowls – one for the dry ingredients and another for the wet. For the dry batter, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In the wet batter bowl, whisk together eggs with a bit of salt and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces first in the wet batter, ensuring they are fully immersed, then transfer them to the dry batter for a complete coating. This dual batter system ensures a crispy outer layer once fried.

Frying the Chicken:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the battered chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Once done, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Preparing the Vegetables:
In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add your choice of vegetables — such as sliced bell peppers and green beans — and sauté until they are soft and have a slight golden color. The vegetables should retain some of their crispness for a nice texture contrast with the chicken.

Making the Honey Sesame Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine the sauce ingredients: low sodium soy sauce, honey, ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, a dash of red pepper flakes for heat, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. To thicken the sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce. Continue simmering until the sauce reaches a thick, glaze-like consistency.

Once the sauce is ready, combine the fried chicken and sautéed vegetables in a large bowl, pour the honey sesame sauce over the top, and gently toss to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful dish with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or noodles for a complete meal. The subtle flavors of jasmine rice or the sweetness of coconut rice complement the savory and sweet notes of the honey sesame chicken perfectly. Alternatively, a side of noodles can add a wonderful texture contrast, making for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken

Achieving Crispy Chicken: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying for that perfect crunch. The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). Using a thermometer can help maintain the correct oil temperature, ensuring each piece is golden brown and deliciously crispy.
Sauce Thickness Adjustments: Modify the cornstarch and water ratio to achieve your desired sauce consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce, simmering until it reaches the perfect thickness.

Variations of the Recipe

Substitute Vegetables: Feel free to use your preferred veggies to add a personal touch. Whether it’s broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, adding different vegetables can tailor the dish to your taste preferences and make it even more nutritious.
Making it Spicier or Sweeter: Adjust the red pepper flakes and honey according to taste. If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For those with a sweeter palate, adding a bit more honey can create a richer, more indulgent sauce.

By following these serving suggestions and cooking tips, you can enjoy a versatile and delicious honey sesame chicken dish that’s tailored to your taste. Experiment with different variations and find your perfect combination for a memorable meal.

FAQs

Can I use thigh meat instead of breast meat?
Yes, thigh meat can be used for a juicier texture. Thigh meat is known for its richer flavor and tends to retain moisture better than breast meat, making it a great alternative for those who prefer a more succulent bite.

What can I substitute for sesame oil?
In the absence of sesame oil, vegetable oil with a dash of toasted sesame seeds can work as a substitute. While sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor, using vegetable oil combined with toasted sesame seeds can mimic the original taste profile and aroma closely.

How can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Opt for gluten-free soy sauce and flour alternatives to make this recipe gluten-free. There are several gluten-free flour options available, such as almond flour or coconut flour, that can be used for the batter. Ensure that all other ingredients, including baking powder if used, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken from Panda Express is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of flavors that define American-Chinese cuisine. This recipe invites you to recreate a beloved classic, offering a taste of nostalgia and the joy of cooking. Dive into the world of Asian cuisine and explore more recipes and cooking techniques at Asian Cuisine Inspirations.

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