Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or wanting to recreate your favorite Chinese takeout dish at home, this Sesame Chicken recipe delivers all the flavor and texture you could wish for. With tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, it’s a hit for all ages.
Why Sesame Chicken is So Popular
Sesame Chicken Recipe is a beloved dish for its perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors combined with a crispy coating that’s satisfying with every bite. It originated as an adaptation of various Asian flavors tailored to suit Western tastes. This dish, with its sticky sesame sauce, is similar to General Tso’s Chicken but is distinct due to the use of sesame seeds and the unique sauce combination.
The Key to the Perfect Sesame Sauce
The secret to a delicious sesame sauce is all about achieving the right balance of ingredients. You’ll need a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and vinegar to create that signature flavor. Check out this helpful guide on types of soy sauce to better understand how different varieties impact your sauce’s taste. Additionally, using the right sesame oil can significantly enhance the richness of the dish—read more about the benefits of sesame oil.
Essential Ingredients for Sesame Chicken Recipe
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs for a juicier result)
- Cornstarch and all-purpose flour for coating
- Egg to help the coating stick
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
For the Sesame Sauce
- Soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- Brown sugar or honey
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Minced garlic and ginger
- Cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Of Serving
- Cooked rice (white, jasmine, or brown)
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Equipment Needed
To make your Sesame Chicken, you will need:
- A large skillet or wok for frying the chicken.
- A medium saucepan to prepare the sauce.
- Tongs for handling the chicken.
- Mixing bowls for the batter and sauce preparation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1: Preparing the Sesame Chicken Recipe
- Cut the Chicken: Dice the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Make sure the pieces are relatively the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, marinate the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of soy sauce. This helps infuse some flavor right into the meat.
- Coat the Chicken: Beat an egg in a separate bowl. Mix cornstarch and flour in another shallow dish. Dip each piece of chicken in the egg, then dredge it in the cornstarch-flour mixture until well-coated. This step is crucial for getting that crispy texture when frying.
2: Frying the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add about ¼ cup of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown on all sides (about 5-6 minutes per batch), then transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3: Making the Sesame Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir everything over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Thicken the Sauce: Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with two tablespoons of water. Add this slurry to the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add Sesame Seeds: Stir in toasted sesame seeds for that classic sesame flavor.
4: Bringing It All Together
- Pour the sauce over the fried chicken pieces in a large bowl. Toss until each piece is coated in the sticky sauce. If you like it extra saucy, feel free to double the sauce recipe.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
5: Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious Sesame Chicken Recipe over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. You can add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas to make it a complete meal. Check out these tips on cooking perfect rice to ensure your rice is fluffy and complements the chicken perfectly.
Variations of Sesame Chicken Recipe
Sesame Chicken Recipe is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs.
Healthier Baked Sesame Chicken
- Instead of frying the chicken, bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. Spray the coated chicken pieces with cooking spray before baking to achieve a crispy texture without the added oil.
Spicy Sesame Chicken
- Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like your chicken spicy. This gives the dish an extra kick that balances well with the sweetness of the sauce.
Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken
- Substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and use gluten-free flour for the coating to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Tips for Making the Best Sesame Chicken Recipe
- Keep It Crispy: To ensure your chicken stays crispy, don’t add the sauce until just before serving. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a big difference in the flavor of the sauce.
- Double Frying for Extra Crispiness: Fry the chicken pieces twice for an even crispier coating. After the first fry, let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then fry again until golden brown.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Storage
- Store leftover Sesame Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. Add a splash of water to the pan to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.
Freezing
- You can freeze cooked Sesame Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When reheating, use a skillet to keep the chicken from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Sesame Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Store the fried chicken and sauce in separate containers. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven to regain crispiness and heat the sauce on the stovetop.
What is the Difference Between Sesame Chicken Recipe and General Tso’s Chicken?
Sesame Chicken is typically sweeter and less spicy compared to General Tso’s Chicken, which has a hint of heat due to the use of chili peppers. Both dishes are similar in preparation but offer different flavor profiles.
Can I Make This Recipe with White Meat or Dark Meat?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts for a leaner option or chicken thighs for a more tender, flavorful dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves four people, and each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
Related Recipes for Further Exploration
If you enjoyed this Sesame Chicken, you might also like these recipes:
- Honey Garlic Chicken: A deliciously sweet and savory dish with a sticky garlic sauce.
- Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry: Packed with vegetables and a sweet teriyaki glaze, perfect for a quick meal.
- General Tso’s Chicken: A spicy, tangy chicken dish that’s another Chinese-American favorite.
Conclusion
Sesame Chicken Recipe is a perfect combination of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, making it a favorite dish for many. Its versatility allows you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, making it as sweet, tangy, or spicy as you prefer. The next time you’re craving takeout, skip the restaurant and make this easy, delicious version at home!
With the tips and variations provided here, you can create the perfect Sesame Chicken that’s sure to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is bound to impress.
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