Sesame chicken is a delightful dish known for its crispy texture and sweet-savory flavors. Typically served as a dinner option or a quick meal prep choice, this dish brings together succulent chicken strips coated in a rich sauce, making it a household favorite. Its straightforward preparation and easy-to-find ingredients make it an accessible choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. You can enjoy this flavorsome sesame chicken with steamed rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that pleases everyone at the table.
If you want to impress your family with a delicious homemade dinner, sesame chicken is a fantastic option. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in no time.
Why This Recipe Works
- Easy preparation
- Family-friendly flavors
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Quick cooking process
- Ideal for meal prep
- Uses simple pantry staples
How to Make This Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz. (230g) boneless and skinless chicken breast (cut into strips)
- oil (for deep-frying)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- white sesame seeds (for garnishing)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg white
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
Directions
- Mix all the ingredients in the sauce until well combined. Set aside.
- Mix all the ingredients for the frying batter in a bowl until well combined. Stir a few times to ensure there are no lumps and the batter is smooth. Add the chicken to the batter and stir to coat it evenly.
- Heat 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) of oil in a wok or stockpot to 350°F (175°C) for deep-frying. Gently drop the chicken into the hot oil and immediately loosen them with a spatula to prevent the pieces from clumping together.
- Deep-fry the chicken until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the oil using a strainer or slotted spoon, allowing the excess oil to drain by placing the chicken on a dish lined with paper towels. Discard the oil.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, then pour in the sauce.
- As soon as the sauce thickens, add the fried chicken to the wok or skillet. Stir continuously until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. Dish out, garnish with white sesame, and serve immediately with steamed rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serving sesame chicken with steamed rice is a classic choice that enhances its tasty flavors. The fluffy rice complements the sweet and sticky sauce beautifully, absorbing the excess liquid and enriching each bite. You might also consider adding stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a more nutritious meal.
Additionally, serving this dish with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sesame chicken. For a more elaborate meal, a side of egg drop soup or hot and sour soup can complete the dining experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover sesame chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To maintain its deliciousness, store it in an airtight container. If you have more to save, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, there are several reheating methods you can use. For the best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or toss it in a skillet over medium heat. The microwave is also an option for a quick meal, though it may result in a slightly less crispy texture.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispiness, feel free to double fry the chicken. After the first fry, let it rest for a few minutes before frying it again.
- Ensure the oil reaches the right temperature before adding the chicken to achieve an ideal golden-brown exterior.
- Experiment with different types of sesame seeds, such as black sesame, to enhance visual appeal and flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of green onions along with the sesame garnish for added freshness and color.
- Adjust the sugar level in the sauce based on your sweetness preference – feel free to add a bit more if you love a sweeter dish.
- Marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and garlic beforehand for deeper flavor penetration.
- Serve the dish fresh for the best taste, as the texture of the chicken is at its finest right after cooking.
- Choose a high-quality soy sauce for better umami flavor in the sauce.
Quick Kitchen Tips
- Keep flour and cornstarch in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- To avoid oil splatter while frying, start with chicken at room temperature.
- Use a thermometer to ensure oil is hot enough for frying.
- Always line your serving plate with paper towels to absorb excess oil when necessary.
Recipe Variations
- Healthy Option: Use chicken breast and substitute the frying oil with an air fryer for a lower-calorie version.
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- High-Protein: Incorporate edamame or chickpeas in the stir-fry for an added protein boost.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu, ensuring it’s pressed and drained to absorb the flavors well.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free sesame chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose to ensure it is cooked thoroughly.
2. What can I pair with sesame chicken for a complete meal?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a refreshing salad. It can also be enjoyed with homemade egg rolls or dumplings.
3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Simply shake or stir it well before use.
4. What oil is best for deep-frying?
Opt for oils with high smoke points such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil to achieve the best fry results without burning.
5. Can I freeze leftover sesame chicken?
Yes, sesame chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Incorporating this sesame chicken recipe into your meal rotation not only elevates your dinner table but also impresses everyone with its flavorful punch. It’s an easy, delicious dish that fits perfectly in busy schedules. For a similar hearty meal, explore this comprehensive guide for making Easy Homemade Sesame Chicken at home! Whether for yourself or guests, this dish is sure to delight. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking!
Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Mix all the ingredients in the sauce until well combined. Set aside.
- Mix all the ingredients for the frying batter in a bowl until well combined. Ensure there are no lumps and the batter is smooth.
- Add the chicken to the batter and stir to coat evenly.
- Heat 2 to 3 inches of oil in a wok or stockpot to 350°F (175°C) for deep-frying.
- Gently drop the chicken into the hot oil and immediately loosen them with a spatula to prevent clumping.
- Deep-fry the chicken until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the oil using a strainer or slotted spoon, draining excess oil on paper towels.
- Discard the used oil.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Pour in the sauce and let it thicken.
- Once thickened, add the fried chicken to the wok and stir continuously until coated.
- Dish out and garnish with white sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice.