Sesame Chicken Recipe

Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender, crispy chicken with a sweet and savory sauce, finished off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This comforting and flavorful meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With its blend of textures and flavors, sesame chicken is a crowd-pleaser that can easily be made at home.

Why Make This Recipe

Making sesame chicken at home offers several advantages over takeout. First, you control the ingredients, which means you can customize them to your taste and make it healthier if you choose. Second, it’s a fun cooking experience that lets you explore new flavors and techniques. Finally, homemade sesame chicken is usually fresher and more satisfying than what you can get from a restaurant. Plus, it can be whipped up quickly, often in under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make Sesame Chicken

Creating delicious sesame chicken at home is simple, and anyone can do it! Below is a step-by-step guide to ensure your sesame chicken is crispy, tasty, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic finely minced
• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce (sambal oelek)
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup cold water
• 2 green onions sliced thin

Directions:

1. Beat the eggs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper together in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and stir until they are evenly coated.
2. In a heavy pot or Dutch Oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches around 350 degrees Fahrenheit, carefully fry the chicken pieces in batches until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, move the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. While the chicken is frying, toast the sesame seeds in a large, dry skillet over medium-high heat. Shake the skillet occasionally to prevent them from burning. Once golden and fragrant, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute while stirring continuously.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili sauce, honey, ketchup, and brown sugar. Mix well. In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with cold water, then whisk it into the sauce mixture. Cook until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the crispy chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving. Serve hot over rice or Asian noodles.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken

Sesame chicken is best served hot and fresh. Plate the dish on a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried Asian noodles. You can garnish it with additional green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to balance the meal.

How to Store Sesame Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is usually a good sign), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, sesame chicken will last for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to keep it moist during reheating.

Tips to Make Sesame Chicken

• Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken makes a big difference in taste and texture. If possible, buy organic, free-range chicken for the best results.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough: Before frying, make sure the oil reaches the right temperature (around 350 degrees). This helps the chicken become crispy instead of greasy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying, work in small batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the honey and brown sugar to fit your taste.

Variations

While the traditional sesame chicken is delicious as is, you can experiment with variations:

• Add veggies: Stir in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas while cooking the sauce for added color, flavor, and nutrition.
• Spicy sesame chicken: If you enjoy heat, increase the chili sauce or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Sesame tofu: For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu for chicken. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before frying.

FAQs

1. Can I make sesame chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to fry the chicken just before serving to maintain its crispiness.

2. Can I freeze sesame chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

3. What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives to honey. They provide a similar sweetness.

4. Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add slightly more flavor and juiciness to the dish.

By following this guide, you can create a delightful sesame chicken that rivals your favorite takeout. Enjoy the satisfaction of cooking this delicious dish at home!