Imagine biting into a crispy, golden piece of chicken. It perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast is more than a meal. It’s a culinary experience that takes your taste buds on a journey to Asia.
The Panda Express menu is a favorite for quick, tasty Chinese-American dishes. Their Honey Sesame Chicken Breast is a hit. It combines tender chicken with a delicious honey sesame sauce that makes people come back for more.
This dish is more than a quick meal. It’s a recipe that brings together crispy chicken, sweet honey, and nutty sesame seeds. This combination has made it a favorite on the Panda Express menu.
Key Takeaways
- Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken features tender white meat chicken
- The dish perfectly balances sweet and savory flavor profiles
- Requires precise cooking techniques for optimal crispiness
- Utilizes a special honey sesame sauce that sets it apart
- A popular choice on the Panda Express menu
Table of Contents
Understanding Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast
Explore the world of Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast. It’s a favorite in the vast Chinese food restaurant scene. Its mix of flavors and textures has won many hearts.
Origin and Evolution
The Honey Sesame Chicken Breast became a hit at Panda Express. It was made to meet the need for tasty and filling meals. This dish shows Panda Express’s dedication to new Chinese-inspired dishes.
What Makes It Special
This dish stands out for several reasons:
- Perfectly crispy chicken coating
- Balanced sweet and savory honey sesame sauce
- Tender, high-quality chicken breast
Nutritional Insights
Looking at Panda Express nutrition facts, the Honey Sesame Chicken Breast is well-balanced:
| Nutritional Component | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 300 | 15% |
| Total Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Sodium | 730mg | 32% |
| Protein | 18g | 36% |
“A delicious balance of flavor and nutrition that keeps customers coming back for more!” – Panda Express Chef
This dish is a good choice for those watching their calories but still want a lot of protein. It’s perfect for those who want a tasty, healthy meal.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Recreation
Starting your best sesame chicken recipe means picking top-notch ingredients. These ingredients add real flavor and texture to your dish. Begin by choosing high-quality chicken breast strips as the main attraction.
Here are the key ingredients for your honey sesame chicken recipe:
- Tender chicken breast strips
- Fresh green beans
- Vibrant yellow bell peppers
- Pure sesame oil
- Toasted sesame seeds
Choosing each ingredient carefully is key to a great dish. Go for organic chicken breast that’s fresh and free-range for the best taste. Your culinary journey needs precise ingredient quality.
“The right ingredients transform a simple meal into a culinary masterpiece.” – Professional Chef
Ingredients like modified food starch, corn starch, and phosphoric acid might seem complex. But they’re essential for that Panda Express texture and flavor. Adding fresh garlic and ginger will take your honey sesame chicken to the next level.
When you shop, find these ingredients in well-stocked grocery stores or Asian markets. Specialty food stores have premium sesame oils and authentic spices. These can make your best sesame chicken recipe truly shine.
Preparing the Signature Batter
Making the perfect batter is key for Panda Express honey sesame chicken. It’s all about balancing wet and dry ingredients right.
Wet Batter Components
The wet batter is the base for your chicken’s crispy outside. You’ll need:
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons peanut or canola oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Dry Batter Secret Mix
The dry mix gives your chicken that crunchy Panda Express taste. Mix together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Proper Coating Techniques
Coating your chicken right is crucial. Here’s how to do it:
- Dip chicken pieces in wet batter first
- Drain excess liquid
- Coat thoroughly in dry mix
- Let rest 10-15 minutes before frying
“The secret to great sesame chicken is in the coating – crisp, even, and perfectly seasoned.”
Your coating method affects your chicken’s texture. A light, even coat means crispiness without losing flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Flour | 2 cups | Creates crispy base |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup | Enhances crunch |
| Eggs | 1 large | Binds coating |
Be patient when making your Panda Express honey sesame chicken. Each step is important for top-notch results.
Crafting the Honey Sesame Sauce
Making the perfect honey sesame sauce is key to a great honey sesame chicken recipe. It turns simple chicken into a dish that wows everyone. You aim to mix sweet, tangy, and savory tastes for the ultimate sesame chicken.
- ½ cup organic honey
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
“The secret to a great sauce is finding the perfect balance between sweetness and depth of flavor.” – Professional Chef
Begin by mixing honey, water, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Then, add soy sauce and rice vinegar for extra flavor. Make a cornstarch slurry with cold water to thicken the sauce and give it a glossy look.
For the best sesame chicken, simmer the sauce until it’s smooth and slightly thick. Stir constantly to avoid burning and get an even texture. You should end up with a shiny, golden sauce that sticks well to crispy chicken.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Making panda express honey sesame chicken breast is all about the cooking. It turns simple ingredients into a tasty dish. Each step is crucial for the best flavor and texture.
Frying the Chicken to Perfection
Start by picking the best chicken thighs. Here’s how to cook them right:
- Marinate 600g of chicken thighs for 30 minutes
- Prepare a double-fry method using 1 litre of vegetable oil
- Maintain frying temperature at 350°F (175°C)
- Cook chicken in batches for 6-7 minutes
- Perform a second fry at 375°F (190°C) for 1 minute to achieve crispiness
Vegetable Preparation Techniques
Choose fresh green beans and yellow bell peppers for color and crunch. Cut them into equal pieces for even cooking and looks.
| Vegetable | Preparation Method | Recommended Cut |
|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | Blanch briefly | 1-inch diagonal cuts |
| Yellow Bell Peppers | Slice thinly | Julienne strips |
Combining Components with Sauce
Now, make the honey sesame sauce with 4 cloves of garlic and 3 tablespoons of sesame seeds. Coat the chicken well so every bite is full of flavor.
“Mastering the art of combining ingredients is the secret to restaurant-quality chinese cuisine.”
Your homemade panda express honey sesame chicken breast is ready. It will wow your family and friends with its authentic taste and presentation.
Vegetable Selection and Preparation
Making the perfect Panda Express sesame chicken starts with picking the right veggies. The right vegetables can take your dish from great to amazing. Green beans and yellow bell peppers are the key ingredients in this culinary adventure.
When picking veggies for your sesame chicken, choose fresh and high-quality ones. Look for green beans that are bright and firm, and yellow bell peppers that are glossy and without spots. These veggies add nutrition and a nice crunch that goes well with the chicken.
- Green beans: Select slender, bright green pods
- Yellow bell peppers: Choose firm, glossy peppers
- Wash vegetables thoroughly before preparation
- Trim green beans and remove seeds from peppers
Getting the veggies ready right is important for that Panda Express taste. Slice yellow bell peppers into thin strips. Cut green beans diagonally for a fancy look that’s restaurant-worthy.
| Vegetable | Calories | Preparation Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Green Beans | 31 calories per cup | Diagonal slice, blanch briefly |
| Yellow Bell Peppers | 30 calories per cup | Thin julienne strips |
“Fresh vegetables transform a good sesame chicken into an exceptional meal.” – Professional Chef
Pro tip: For a twist, try snap peas or broccoli with honey sesame sauce. Your homemade dish can be just as tasty as Panda Express!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your Honey Sesame Chicken Breast even better with the right sides. These choices can turn your meal into a memorable experience. It’s like getting a top-notch meal without the high prices of Panda Express.
Rice Selections
Your Honey Sesame Chicken Breast needs a great rice base. Here are some tasty options:
- Steamed White Rice: Classic and light
- Brown Rice: Nutritious whole grain alternative
- Fried Rice: Flavorful and indulgent
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Packed with extra nutrients
Noodle Alternatives
Want something different? Try these noodle choices:
- Chow Mein: Crispy and savory
- Lo Mein: Soft, silky noodles
- Vegetable Noodles: Low-carb option
Side Dish Recommendations
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Spring Rolls | Crispy, Light | $3-$4 |
| Hot and Sour Soup | Tangy, Spicy | $4-$5 |
| Steamed Super Greens | Healthy, Fresh | $2-$3 |
Pro tip: Try different sides to make a meal that’s like a restaurant’s. You can enjoy a delicious meal without spending a lot. Start your own Chinese food restaurant experience at home!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keeping your panda express honey sesame chicken breast tasty is key. Whether it’s leftovers from a chinese food restaurant or homemade, keeping it crispy is important.
Store your honey sesame chicken in an airtight container. It’s best to keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the sauce to keep it crispy.
- Refrigeration time: Up to 4 days
- Freezing duration: Up to 3 months
- Best storage method: Separate chicken and sauce
Reheating is crucial to bring back the chicken’s flavor. You can use several methods:
- Air Fryer Method: 6-8 minutes at 350°F
- Oven Technique: 10-15 minutes at 375°F
- Microwave Option: 30 seconds on high (use sparingly)
For the best results, skip the microwave. The air fryer or oven will keep the chicken crispy and flavorful.
| Reheating Method | Temperature | Time | Texture Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | 350°F | 6-8 minutes | Crispy |
| Oven | 375°F | 10-15 minutes | Crisp Exterior |
| Microwave | High | 30 seconds | Softer Texture |
“The secret to great leftovers is in the reheating technique!” – Culinary Experts
Health Benefits and Dietary Considerations
When you try the Honey Sesame Chicken Breast at Panda Express, knowing its nutrition is key. It’s a mix of protein, carbs, and important nutrients.
This dish has about 490 calories per serving. Here’s what it offers:
- Protein: About 16 grams, good for muscles
- Carbohydrates: Around 35 grams, for energy
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 grams
Panda Express nutrition facts show it’s tasty but needs careful eating. The sodium is high, so watch your salt intake.
“Eating well is about balance, not perfection” – Nutrition Expert
Here are tips for different diets:
- Ask for less sauce to cut down on sugar
- Pair it with Super Greens for veggies
- Choose brown rice for more fiber
If you’re gluten-sensitive or allergic, talk to the staff. They can help make sure your meal is safe.
FAQ
What is Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast?
How many calories are in Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast?
Can I make Honey Sesame Chicken at home?
What are the main ingredients in Honey Sesame Chicken?
Is Honey Sesame Chicken a healthy option?
How should I store leftover Honey Sesame Chicken?
What are good side dishes to serve with Honey Sesame Chicken?
Can I make a gluten-free version of this dish?
Conclusion
Your journey with Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast has opened a world of flavors and health. With over 2,200 locations in North America, finding this dish is easy. It’s a tasty and healthy choice, with just 340 calories per serving.
Enjoying this dish at a local Panda Express or making it at home is now possible. The medium portion costs $8.50, making it a great value. It fits well within the restaurant’s price range for meals.
Learning how to make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken Breast has given you a skill. You can adjust the recipe to your liking while keeping its essence. Now, you know how to make this dish, including its nutritional benefits and cooking techniques.
Your adventure is just starting. Try new things with the recipe and visit Panda Express locations near you. Each bite is a mix of tradition, creativity, and good nutrition. Panda Express is a top choice for quick, tasty meals.