This Sesame Chicken is a tasty dish coated in a sweet and sticky sauce, topped with crunchy sesame seeds. It’s a fun mix of flavors that makes dinner special!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist the sauce! I always end up pouring a little extra on my rice. Plus, it’s easy to whip up—great for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could swap it with tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
Cornstarch: This is key for getting that crispy coating. If you need a gluten-free option, try using potato starch instead; it will give similar results.
Honey: A great sweetener for the sauce! If you’re vegan or allergic, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as excellent substitutes. They’ll still bring that sweetness.
Soy Sauce: For gluten-free, use tamari sauce. If you want a lower-sodium option, you can find reduced-sodium soy sauce at most stores.
Rice Vinegar: This adds tanginess to the sauce. You can swap it out with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Crispy?
Frying the chicken to a light golden brown is crucial to keep it crispy. Here’s how to get it right:
- First, ensure the chicken pieces are patted dry. Moisture can prevent good crispiness.
- Use a deep, heavy skillet or wok with at least 1 inch of oil for even frying. Preheat it to around 350°F/175°C for best results.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Give each piece space so they cook evenly.
- Don’t rush; let them fry undisturbed before flipping. This helps to create a nice crust.
Following these tips will help your sesame chicken turn out crispy and delicious every time!
How to Make Sesame Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional, for serving)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sesame chicken recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 20-30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40-50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving a nice crispy texture. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs together. In another bowl, add the cornstarch. Dip the chicken pieces first into the egg mixture, then coat them well with the cornstarch. Set aside and let them sit for a few minutes.
2. Fry the Chicken:
Next, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat—about 1 inch deep should do. Once the oil is hot (you can check this by carefully dropping a small bit of cornstarch in; it should sizzle), start frying the chicken in small batches. Cook each batch for 4-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. Use a slotted spoon to drain the chicken on paper towels.
3. Make the Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Once it’s simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and looks glossy. Remove from heat and mix in the sesame oil for flavor.
4. Prepare the Broccoli (Optional):
If you’d like to add broccoli, steam or blanch the florets in boiling water for just a couple of minutes until they’re tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Toss the crispy fried chicken pieces in the warm sauce until all the chicken is evenly coated. Make sure every piece gets a good amount of that delicious sauce!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Place the sesame chicken over a bed of cooked white rice. If you steamed broccoli, arrange it on the side. Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your homemade crispy, sticky, and flavorful sesame chicken while it’s hot! This meal is sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time: tofu should be pressed and cut into cubes, while shrimp will only need about 2-3 minutes to cook until they’re pink and opaque.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Yep! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a quick reheat on the stove and stir before tossing it with the fried chicken.
What Can I Serve with Sesame Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or stir-fried vegetables for some extra crunch and nutrition!