Sesame Chicken Recipe

Sesame Chicken Recipe

ByLila

I’ve always had a soft spot for sesame chicken. Growing up, it was my go-to order at our local Chinese restaurant, where the crispy chicken coated in that sticky, sweet sauce sprinkled with sesame seeds never failed to hit the spot. There’s something about the balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. After years of craving it, I decided to recreate that magic at home, tweaking recipes until I nailed the perfect version. Now, it’s a weeknight staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share it with you!

This sesame chicken recipe is beginner-friendly, packed with flavor, and ready in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish brings restaurant-quality vibes without the takeout price tag. From the crunchy coating to the glossy sauce, every bite is a winner. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser, complete with tips, variations, and everything you need to make it your own.

Sesame Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sesame Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted)

For Garnish:

  • 2 green onions (sliced)
  • Extra sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and cornstarch. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, then coat in cornstarch. Shake off excess.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F). Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Add garlic and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Toss and Coat: In a large bowl, toss fried chicken with the sauce until evenly coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Top with green onions and extra sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Best Sesame Chicken Recipe

Related Recipes:

Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

Chicken Fried Recipe

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Crispy Chicken: Double-coating (flour, egg, cornstarch) ensures a crunchy texture. Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s the secret to that restaurant-style crunch.
  • Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F to avoid soggy chicken. Use a thermometer if possible.
  • Toast Sesame Seeds: Toast seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes to boost their nutty flavor.
  • Sauce Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
  • Baked Version: For a lighter option, bake coated chicken at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari and use gluten-free flour.
  • Veggie Boost: Toss in stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.

Storage Suggestions

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to keep the chicken crispy.
  • Freezer: Freeze fried chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw, reheat in the oven, then toss with fresh sauce.
  • Reheating: Avoid microwaving—it makes the chicken soggy. Use an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or a skillet.

How to Serve

Serve sesame chicken over steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles for a classic takeout vibe. Pair with stir-fried veggies or a side of egg rolls for a full meal. For a lighter option, try it with cauliflower rice or a crisp cucumber salad. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Cup)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 900mg
    Note: Values are approximate and vary based on portion size and ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make sesame chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Fry the chicken and store it separately from the sauce. Toss together just before serving to keep it crispy.

Is sesame chicken the same as General Tso’s?
Nope! Sesame chicken is sweeter and nuttier, while General Tso’s is spicier and tangier.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work great. Adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce honey and brown sugar by half and add a splash of soy sauce for balance.

Conclusion

This sesame chicken recipe is your ticket to a quick, flavorful meal that rivals your favorite takeout. With crispy chicken, a sticky-sweet sauce, and that irresistible sesame crunch, it’s a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, it’s easy to make and even easier to love. So grab your skillet, whip this up, and enjoy a taste of comfort right at home!

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