Name: Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch (gluten-free); 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 cup snap peas; 2 tablespoons cooking oil; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 green onions, chopped; For the sauce:; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) brings the iconic flavors of your favorite takeout dish straight into your home kitchen, catering to special dietary needs without losing any of the sweet and savory magic.

The combination of tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy honey sesame sauce is utterly irresistible, making this a sought-after dish in both restaurants and home kitchens alike. Historically, honey-based sauces have been a staple in Asian cuisines, symbolizing celebration and comfort.

Panda Express, a trailblazer in popularizing American-Chinese cuisine, introduced its Honey Sesame Chicken as a limited-time offering, quickly captivating diners with its harmonious flavors and vibrant, classic appeal.

By carefully substituting traditional ingredients with gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives, this recipe manages to achieve that luscious crispy coating and signature sticky-sweet sauce, so everyone can enjoy it safely and deliciously at home.

Preparing Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) at home also allows you to tailor the ingredients to your health preferences, control the quality of oil used, and even adjust the level of sweetness and spice to make it your own.

Whether you are aiming to replicate a beloved restaurant classic or need to serve a crowd with multiple dietary concerns, this recipe stands out for its flavor, accessibility, and family-friendly nature.

With the added bonus of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, there is every reason to make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) a new staple in your weekly rotation.

Dive into the aromatic world of homemade takeout with a version of this classic that is every bit as irresistible as the original, but tailored just for you!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon salt

2-3 cups high-heat oil, such as avocado or canola, for frying
1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 small yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cups snap peas, trimmed

2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For the honey sesame sauce:
1/3 cup honey

3 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce or tamari
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine gluten-free all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and white pepper.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
Dip each chicken piece in the egg, then dredge in the flour-cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or wok to cover the bottom by 1-2 inches and heat over medium-high until a small pinch of flour sizzles.

Working in batches, fry the coated chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Discard most of the oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Sauté the bell peppers and snap peas for 2-3 minutes until just tender but crisp.
Set the vegetables aside.
For the honey sesame sauce, whisk together honey, gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl.

Pour the sauce mixture into the now-empty skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Return the chicken and vegetables to the pan. Toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced scallions before serving.

Nutritional Information

Homemade Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) offers a flavorful balance of macronutrients while avoiding gluten and dairy, making it a wonderful choice for those with food sensitivities or allergies. Each serving provides a robust amount of lean protein thanks to the boneless chicken used as the base.

The cornstarch and gluten-free flour contribute to the crispy, satisfying texture, without the heaviness associated with deep-fried restaurant alternatives.

On average, one generous serving (approximately 1/4 of the recipe) contains around 350-400 calories, 28 grams of protein, 10-12 grams of fat, and 34-38 grams of carbohydrates, most of which are sourced from the sauce's honey and brown sugar.

Including vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas boosts fiber, vitamins C and A, and antioxidant content, supporting immune and cardiovascular health. The use of high-heat plant-based oil limits saturated fat content. Sodium is present mainly from soy sauce, but opting for low-sodium tamari can further reduce salt intake.

No milk or wheat ingredients are included, making this an ideal option for gluten-intolerant or dairy-sensitive diners seeking an energizing, satisfying entrée.

As always, specific nutritional values may vary slightly based on brands and measurements used, so for highly accurate data, consider using a nutrition app tailored to your exact ingredients.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

For a classic pairing, a lightly aromatic white wine such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer complements the honey sesame notes by balancing sweetness and acidity. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, jasmine iced tea or sparkling cucumber lime water provides refreshing contrast and palate-cleansing properties.

For a gluten-free beer enthusiast, select a light lager or pale ale made from sorghum or millet to offset the sauce's richness. Green tea, served hot or cold, also brings out the ginger and garlic undertones in the dish while enhancing digestion.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To achieve the ideal Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) texture, ensure each chicken piece is evenly coated and the oil is hot enough before frying.

If you're short on time, you can oven-bake the coated chicken pieces at 425°F on a greased rack for 14-18 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter alternative. Air frying at 400°F for 12-15 minutes is another great option that uses less oil.

For added flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in a mix of gluten-free soy sauce and rice vinegar for 20 minutes before coating. Try incorporating freshly cracked black pepper for extra spice or a small pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce for more heat.

If you prefer a fully plant-based option, substitute extra-firm tofu or cauliflower florets for chicken and adjust frying times as needed. For a crunchier finish, double-dip the chicken (flour, egg, then flour again) before frying. You can also add water chestnuts or julienned carrots for new textures and color.

Always taste the sauce before combining everything, adjusting honey or tamari to balance your own perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy. Serve immediately after tossing in sauce to retain crispiness. Meal prep lovers can fry chicken in advance and quickly reheat and sauce it at mealtime for maximum freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) shines best when served immediately after tossing in the glossy, sweet sesame sauce. Present the chicken and vibrant vegetables over a bed of freshly steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce and provides hearty substance.

For those aiming to keep things extra healthy, a scoop of cauliflower rice or a blend of quinoa and millet offers a lower-carb, protein-rich alternative that still soaks up every flavorful drop. To mirror the restaurant experience, garnish generously with crunchy sesame seeds and a scatter of bright green scallions.

For a full meal, consider serving this chicken alongside simple steamed bok choy, sautéed broccoli, or an Asian-inspired slaw dressed with a touch of rice vinegar and sesame oil.

If preparing this dish for a family gathering or party, serve platter-style and let diners build their bowls, adding extra veggies as desired. For a touch of heat, a drizzle of gluten-free chili sauce or a side of pickled ginger enlivens the plate.

Presentation matters: use shallow, wide bowls for serving so each piece is evenly coated in sauce, and encourage guests to enjoy with chopsticks for a memorable, authentic experience.

Health Benefits

One of the standout benefits of preparing Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) at home is the ability to craft a meal free from problematic allergens and artificial additives.

By skipping standard breadcrumbs, wheat flour, or dairy-based coatings and opting for gluten-free flour blends and pure cornstarch, you eliminate common sources of digestive discomfort for gluten- and lactose-intolerant diners.

High-quality chicken breast provides lean protein essential for muscle repair, immune function, and energy, while the inclusion of snap peas and bell peppers introduces antioxidants, fiber, and phytonutrients that promote heart and cellular health. Sesame oil adds healthy unsaturated fats and a boost of minerals like copper and manganese.

Homemade honey sesame sauce also means you can control sugar and sodium content, using as much or as little as needed to fit your diet. This entrée, when paired with brown rice or alternative whole grains, creates a more balanced glycemic profile and a slowing of rapid sugar absorption.

Ultimately, making this dish from scratch ensures no hidden dairy, gluten, or excess preservatives—just wholesome ingredients, thoughtfully prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) ahead of time?

Yes, you can fry the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, quickly reheat the chicken in a hot oven or air fryer, then toss with freshly made sauce and vegetables for best texture.

Are there substitutes for honey to make this chicken refined sugar-free?

Absolutely. Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey in the sauce. Reduce the added brown sugar, or use coconut sugar or a monk fruit sweetener to taste.

What do I do if I cannot find gluten-free soy sauce?

Use tamari, which is a naturally gluten-free soy sauce alternative widely available in stores. Coconut aminos also work for those avoiding soy altogether.

Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep frying?

Yes, baking at 425°F or air-frying at 400°F will give you a similar crispy texture with less oil. Turn the chicken once or twice during cooking for even browning.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet, mild sauce makes it a hit with kids, and the crispy texture is universally loved. Consider reducing the ginger, garlic, or omitting spice for young taste buds.

Enjoying Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) at home offers the familiar comfort of restaurant takeout in a version that’s friendlier to your health and your wallet. This recipe is proof that dietary accommodations never have to mean sacrificing flavor, nostalgia, or enjoyment. By controlling each element, you create a dish free of gluten or dairy but full of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Whether you're feeding a family, pleasing a crowd, or simply craving those signature flavors, this homemade take on Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken fits seamlessly into any menu. Let this become your go-to recipe whenever you’re after fast, flavorful, and fuss-free dining that satisfies everyone at the table.

Panda Express Honey Sesame Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)