If you’re craving something irresistibly crispy, sweet, and bursting with savory flavors, this Sesame Chicken Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to! From that perfectly crunchy coating to the sticky, tangy glaze studded with sesame seeds, every bite feels like a big warm hug on a plate. It’s comforting yet exciting, easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this Sesame Chicken Recipe, you’ll be hooked on making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this Sesame Chicken Recipe. These simple staples come together to create a perfect balance of crispy chicken and flavorful sauce that really shines in every mouthful.
- Cornstarch and all-purpose flour: This duo creates the light, crispy coating that seals in the juiciness of the chicken.
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
- Large eggs: Help the coating stick to the chicken for that perfect fry.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and easy eating.
- Vegetable oil: Used for frying to get that golden brown exterior.
- Honey: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory and tangy elements of the sauce.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides that classic umami base with less salt.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted bits that add nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and gives the sauce a rich texture.
- Rice vinegar: Brings a bright, slightly tangy kick to the glaze.
- Sesame oil: Infuses authentic, nutty flavor that’s key to the dish.
- Sriracha: A little heat to lift the flavors and add complexity.
- Minced onion, garlic, and fresh ginger: Aromatics that build the foundation of the sauce’s deliciousness.
- Chopped green onion: For a fresh, crisp finish and a pop of color when serving.
How to Make Sesame Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mixture and Eggs
Start by whisking together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper in a large shallow bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. These two steps are key to achieving that iconic crispy crust that locks in the chicken’s juiciness.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken Pieces
Dredge the bite-sized chicken pieces in the dry flour mixture first. Next, dip each piece into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off. Then dredge them again in the flour mix for a double coating that creates extra crunch when fried. Lay them out on a plate or sheet pan, ready for frying.
Step 3: Heat the Oil and Fry the Chicken
Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil using tongs. Fry them in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a crisp exterior. Drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Sweet and Savory Sauce
While the chicken rests, mix honey, low-sodium soy sauce, sesame seeds, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and a bit of cornstarch in a small bowl. This blend creates the sticky glaze that makes this Sesame Chicken Recipe so memorable — sweet, tangy, spicy, and rich all at once.
Step 5: Cook the Aromatics and Thicken the Sauce
Remove most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon. Over medium heat, add minced onion, garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture and let it sizzle for a minute or two until it thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 6: Toss Chicken in the Sauce
Turn off the heat, add the crispy chicken pieces back into the skillet, and toss them gently to coat thoroughly with the luscious sauce. This step ensures each bite will deliver that perfect combination of crunchy texture and sticky, flavorful glaze.
How to Serve Sesame Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing this dish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and extra toasted sesame seeds not only brightens the look but also adds fresh, nutty bites that elevate the flavor profile. These little touches make your dish look restaurant-worthy and taste even better.
Side Dishes
This Sesame Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up all the amazing sauce. For a refreshing contrast, toss a side of stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to add color, crunch, and nutrition to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to take this homemade favorite up a notch? Serve your sesame chicken over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative or scoop it into lettuce cups for a fun, fresh finger food. Drizzle extra sauce around the plate for visual flair and invite everyone to dig in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sesame chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and chicken together so the flavors meld, but note the coating may soften slightly over time.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this Sesame Chicken Recipe, arrange the fried chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze the sauce separately in small portions. This way, you can easily reheat just what you need without losing texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help crisp it back up, then pour the reheated sauce over the top. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will deliver a juicier, slightly richer flavor, and they hold up well to frying. Just cut them into similar bite-sized pieces and follow the recipe as is.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free tamari. This simple change keeps the dish safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an option for a lighter version. Coat the chicken as directed, then bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
How spicy is the sauce, and can I adjust it?
The sriracha adds a gentle kick, but you can easily adjust heat by adding more or less depending on your preference. For a milder sauce, just omit or reduce the sriracha.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with the cooked chicken to maintain its lovely glaze and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Sesame Chicken Recipe is a true champion when it comes to bringing bold, comforting flavors to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, it strikes the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, spicy, and savory. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it—once you do, I promise it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection, ready to brighten up any meal with ease and joy!
