Sticky Garlic Sesame Chicken Bites are tender, golden-fried pieces of chicken tossed in a rich, glossy garlic sauce infused with soy, honey, and sesame oil. Finished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, this dish is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Serve it as an appetizer or main course alongside rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with simple ingredients and minimal effort. The crispy chicken bites are coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that clings to every surface, making each bite irresistible. The recipe is quick, versatile, and crowd-pleasing—ideal for weeknight dinners, party platters, or game day snacking. Plus, it’s easy to scale for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp water + 1 tsp cornstarch (slurry)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches, turning to cook evenly, until golden brown and crispy—about 4–5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
3. In the same skillet, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Stir well and simmer for 2–3 minutes until aromatic.
4. Add the cornstarch slurry (water mixed with cornstarch) and stir until the sauce thickens to a sticky consistency.
5. Return the fried chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the pieces thoroughly in the sauce.
6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
7. Serve hot as a main dish or appetizer with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add more chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for an alternative to chicken.
• Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas sautéed in the sauce for added nutrition and color.
• Low-sugar option: Use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit in place of honey and brown sugar.
• Air fryer method: Cook the chicken bites in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden and fully cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead separately. Reheat and combine just before serving for best texture.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless chicken thighs are juicier, but chicken breast works well for a leaner option.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and confirm that all other ingredients are free from gluten.

Can I use pre-minced garlic and ginger?

Yes, but fresh garlic and ginger provide a more vibrant flavor.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?

Serve immediately after tossing in the sauce. For extra crispness, serve sauce on the side for dipping.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes. Doubling the sauce is great if you’re serving over rice or want a saucier result.

Can I use sesame seeds without toasting them?

Yes, but toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor.

Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?

Yes. You can substitute with arrowroot powder or rice flour, but cornstarch yields the crispiest coating.

Conclusion

Sticky Garlic Sesame Chicken Bites offer a delicious combination of crunch, sweetness, and savoriness that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a fast dinner or a show-stopping party appetizer, this recipe delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture with every bite. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a must-try dish for any occasion.

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