Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Sticky Sesame Chicken Simple and Quick is my secret weapon. It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget all about expensive Chinese takeout. If you love easy, hands-off dinners, you should also try this simple slow cooker chicken jambalaya for another set-and-forget option.
I make this at least twice a month. It proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to eat incredibly well. Let’s get into how you can make a sweet and savory masterpiece without breaking the bank.
Recipe Overview
Here’s the quick look at what you’re making. It’s designed for busy weeknights when you need something fast and satisfying.
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Category: Main Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
I built this recipe from the ground up to be kind to your wallet. Every choice has a purpose.
First, it uses basic chicken breast or thighs, which are almost always affordable. The sauce is made from pantry staples you likely own. You skip the high markup and delivery fees of restaurant food.
Most importantly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can swap in any veggies you have. This flexibility means you can shop sales and avoid waste. That’s how you really win on a budget.
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
Getting the best price is a skill. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference.
Buy your chicken in bulk when it’s on sale and freeze it in recipe-sized portions. Purchase sesame seeds from the bulk bins or international aisle—they’re often cheaper there.
For veggies, frozen broccoli or stir-fry mixes are fantastic. They’re just as nutritious, often less expensive, and you use only what you need. For rice, buy a big bag. It’s the ultimate cheap and filling side. This same budget-friendly approach works perfectly for an easy slow cooker chicken jambalaya as well.
Sticky Sesame Chicken Simple and Quick Recipe
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Sticky Sesame Chicken Simple and Quick Recipe!
Nutrition Information
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Here’s everything you need. Check your pantry first—you might already have most of it!
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (like vegetable or canola)
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1-2 tablespoons water, if needed
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
- (Optional) Steamed broccoli or other veggies, for serving
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps. You’ll have dinner ready before you know it.
- Start by coating the chicken. Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with the cornstarch in a bowl. Make sure each piece gets a light, even coating. This is the trick for getting that crispy exterior.
- Cook the chicken. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate.
- Make the magic sauce. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Whisk it together and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. It will start to bubble and thicken slightly.
- Combine and get sticky. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken is beautifully coated. Let it cook together for another 1-2 minutes. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water.
- Finish and serve. Turn off the heat. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds. Serve your sticky chicken immediately over cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and an extra sprinkle of sesame seeds.
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
Being resourceful is key to saving money. Here’s how to make sure nothing goes to waste.
If you have extra sauce, you can freeze it in an ice cube tray. Pop out a cube or two to instantly flavor a quick stir-fry later. Leftover cooked chicken and rice make a fantastic lunch the next day.
Don’t toss those green onion roots! Place them in a glass with an inch of water on your windowsill. They’ll regrow for future recipes. Use any leftover veggies in a fried rice or soup later in the week.
Nutrition Notes
This is a balanced, homemade meal. Here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving (including about 3/4 cup of rice).
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~55g
- Fat: ~10g
- Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control salt. Adding lots of steamed veggies boosts fiber and vitamins for very little extra cost.
Common Questions About This Recipe
You might have a couple of questions. I know I did when I first started making this!
Can I use something instead of cornstarch?
Absolutely. All-purpose flour works in a pinch, though the coating won’t get quite as crisp. You can also use arrowroot powder for a similar result.
My sauce is too thin. How do I thicken it?
No problem! Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this slurry into the simmering sauce. It will thicken up in less than a minute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and mix the sauce ingredients separately a day ahead. Store them in the fridge. Cook everything fresh for the best texture. The leftovers still taste great, though!
See? Amazing food doesn’t require a fancy budget. It just needs a smart plan and a few reliable recipes. This sticky chicken is a perfect example. It’s faster than delivery and so much more rewarding to make yourself. For another effortless dinner that cooks all day, this simple set-and-forget chicken jambalaya is a fantastic choice.
I hope this becomes a regular in your rotation. It’s a dish that truly makes budget cooking feel special. Let me know your own money-saving twists for this recipe in the comments below! Please leave a rating!
