As I stood in my kitchen, the irresistible aroma wafting from the stovetop reminded me of my favorite takeout spot, yet here I was, creating a homemade masterpiece. This Healthy Copycat Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken is my go-to for a cozy family dinner, delivering that beloved flavor while being gluten-free and dairy-free. With crispy chicken strips tossed in a sweet-and-sour sauce, paired with sautéed bell peppers and green beans, it’s a delightful meal that won’t weigh you down. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights, but it also caters to a variety of dietary needs, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy it. Ready to add a sprinkle of happiness to your evening? Let’s get started!

Why not make a healthier version?

Delicious yet Wholesome: This homemade version of Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken keeps all the flavor without the guilt.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!

Family-Friendly: The gluten-free and dairy-free options ensure a meal that everyone can enjoy, making it a hit among kids and adults alike.

Customization at Your Fingertips: Whether you prefer chicken, tofu, or a medley of veggies, this recipe adapts beautifully to your tastes.

Mouthwatering Aroma: As it cooks, the sweet-and-sour scent fills your kitchen, transporting you back to your favorite Asian takeout spot.

For something a bit different, check out my Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or the refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad for more delightful meals that cater to everyone!

Express Honey Sesame Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delicious meal!

For the Chicken Coating

Chicken Fillets – Boneless, skinless breasts provide tender, juicy bites that absorb the sweet sauce beautifully.
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – This light blend is ideal for coating, ensuring a crispy texture without the heaviness of traditional flours.
Egg – Binds the coating to the chicken; for a vegan swap, use aquafaba instead!
Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken; fine table salt or sea salt works best.
Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat; feel free to omit for a milder dish.
Baking Soda – Contributes to that delicious crispy texture when frying.
Cornstarch – Promotes extra crispiness; potato or tapioca starch make great substitutes if needed.

For Frying

Olive Oil – Perfect for frying, but can easily be exchanged for another neutral oil based on your preference.

For the Vegetables

Yellow Bell Pepper – Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color; red or green bell peppers are tasty alternatives.
Green Beans – Provides a delightful crunch; snap peas can be used for a different twist!

For the Sauce

Honey – Essential for the sweet flavor; if avoiding honey, maple syrup makes a suitable replacement.
Hot Sauce – Introduces necessary heat; choose a gluten-free brand to keep it safe for everyone.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy bite that balances out the sweetness beautifully.
Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon enhances the overall flavor; bottled juice can work in a pinch but lacks that fresh zing.

This Express Honey Sesame Chicken recipe combines flavors that feel like a warm hug, making mealtime a delightful experience. Are you ready to whisk up some happiness?

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by beating an egg in a bowl and seasoning it with salt, black pepper, and a splash of olive oil for added flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cornstarch. This dual setup will streamline the coating process for your Express Honey Sesame Chicken, ensuring a light, crispy finish on the chicken strips.

Step 2: Coat Chicken
Take your chicken fillets and dip each strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, coat the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer for a perfect crunch. Shake off any excess flour as you prepare for frying. This step is crucial to achieving that delightful texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

Step 3: Fry Chicken
Heat about 1-1.5 inches of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, bringing it to a steady temperature of 350°F. Fry the chicken strips in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking them for about 6-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain them on paper towels, allowing excess oil to be absorbed for a lighter finish.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In a separate pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow bell peppers and green beans, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes. You want them to remain vibrant and slightly tender, maintaining their freshness. This colorful medley will complement your Express Honey Sesame Chicken beautifully, adding both texture and nutrition.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and a splash of water. Mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking continuously until it thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This glossy sauce is what brings all the elements of your dish together, ensuring a delightful sweet-and-sour flavor.

Step 6: Combine
Add the fried chicken strips and sautéed vegetables into the saucepan with your freshly made sauce. Gently toss everything together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken and vegetables to be fully coated and warmed through. This step is where the magic happens, transforming your meal into a beautiful chorus of flavors that embody the essence of Express Honey Sesame Chicken.

Step 7: Serve
Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture to a serving platter, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top to create an appealing shine. For an extra touch, garnish with sesame seeds to enhance both flavor and presentation. Serve immediately to maintain the crispy texture and enjoy your homemade Express Honey Sesame Chicken with steamed rice or quinoa!

What to Serve with Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that elevate the flavors of your delicious chicken dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The soft, fragrant rice perfectly soaks up the sweet-and-sour sauce, making every bite a harmonious experience.
Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed side complements the dish’s textures and adds a nutty flavor, perfect for a health-conscious touch.
Crispy Spring Rolls: The crispy crunch of spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provides a delightful contrast to the tender chicken, enhancing your dining experience.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy adds a fresh, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the honey sesame sauce.
Honey Garlic Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots tossed in honey create a delightful harmony of flavors, echoing the sweetness of the chicken while offering a burst of color.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Crisp, refreshing cucumbers with a light sesame dressing offer a cooling, crunchy contrast to the warm chicken.

To wash it all down, serve with a chilled glass of green tea or a fruity sparkling water for a refreshing finish!

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Copycat Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken strips and coat them with flour up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just reheat it on the stove while you fry the chicken. When ready to serve, fry the chicken until golden and crispy, sauté the vegetables, and then combine everything with the warm sauce. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Express Honey Sesame Chicken with minimal effort on those bustling weeknights!

Storage Tips for Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain flavor and texture, ensuring your Express Honey Sesame Chicken stays delightful for future meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the chicken’s crispiness, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Avoid Room Temperature: For food safety, do not leave cooked chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Always refrigerate promptly to keep it fresh.

Expert Tips for Express Honey Sesame Chicken

Crispy Finish: Serve immediately after cooking, as the chicken may lose its crispiness when coated in sauce.
Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a little more honey or maple syrup to suit your taste.
Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check that your oil is at 350°F before frying; this ensures a nice golden-brown color and prevents sogginess.
Vegetable Substitutions: Get creative with your vegetables—broccoli or snap peas can add unique flavors and textures to your Express Honey Sesame Chicken.
Storage Solutions: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, and reheat in a skillet for the best results while maintaining the dish’s deliciousness.
Gluten-Free Assurance: Always double-check that your sauces and hot sauces are certified gluten-free for those with dietary sensitivities.

Express Honey Sesame Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your dish to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs!

Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, treating it with the same flavorful coating for a plant-based twist.
Vegetable Medley: Swap bell peppers and green beans for vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and variety.
Sauce Sweetness: Adjust the balance by varying honey or maple syrup to meet your personal taste for sweetness in the sauce.
Extra Crunch: Add toasted sesame seeds on top for an additional layer of texture and flavor without any extra work.
Heat Level: For a fiery kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes, ensuring it’s gluten-free, to spice up the dish!
Citrusy Zest: Enhance freshness by adding a bit of grated ginger or lime zest into the sauce; this lifts the flavors beautifully.
Alternative Coating: Experiment with almond flour or crushed rice crackers as an alternative coating for a different crunch.
Savory Garlic: Sauté minced garlic with the vegetables to deepen the savory profile of the dish, complementing the sweet-and-sour sauce.

For even more delightful inspirations, consider trying my Sticky Chicken Rice or a refreshing Chicken Bacon Ranch for family favorites that are sure to impress!

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs

How can I choose the best chicken fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken fillets, look for boneless, skinless breasts that are plump and free from dark spots or any signs of spoilage. Fresh chicken should feel firm to the touch and have a light pink color. If buying frozen, ensure they are tightly sealed without any signs of freezer burn.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Honey Sesame Chicken?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let the chicken cool down to room temperature before sealing it. For optimal taste, reheat in a skillet over medium heat rather than using a microwave, to help maintain that crispy texture.

Can I freeze the Express Honey Sesame Chicken?
Of course! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely and then place it in a sealed, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, skillet-cook over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a splash of water or gluten-free broth to adjust the consistency. Heat the sauce gently over low heat while whisking until it reaches your desired thickness. This way, you’ll have a perfectly balanced sauce that complements your chicken and vegetables.

Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions. However, always check the labels of your hot sauce and other condiments to ensure they do not contain gluten or dairy. If you’re cooking for someone with multiple allergies, consider using maple syrup in place of honey, and double-check that the cornstarch is free from any cross-contaminants.

How should I adjust the recipe for a different protein, like tofu?
Great question! If you wish to substitute chicken with tofu, first press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Follow the same coating and frying steps as with the chicken, but reduce the frying time to about 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Then, proceed with the sauce and vegetable steps as outlined. This delicious alternative remains gluten-free and dairy-free while catering to any plant-based preferences!