Sesame Chicken

When I think of satisfying comfort food, Sesame Chicken always comes to mind. This dish brings back memories of bustling weeknights when I would rush home from work, craving something both quick and delicious. The aroma of tender chicken coated in a crispy batter, tossed in a savory sesame sauce, fills the kitchen and instantly lifts my spirits. It’s a dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into something special. The magic of Sesame Chicken lies not just in its flavor but in the memories made around the dinner table. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish never fails to impress.

What draws me to Sesame Chicken is how easily it can cater to everyone’s tastes. I love the balance of flavors – the sweet, the savory, and that subtle nuttiness from the sesame seeds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it over rice, alongside stir-fried vegetables, or even in a wrap. Every bite tells a story, and as I prepare it, I can’t help but reminisce about other cherished meals shared with loved ones.

The beauty of cooking Sesame Chicken is that it allows you to experiment and make it your own. Each time I make it, I tweak the recipe slightly, maybe adding a hint of ginger or a splash of citrus. It’s a reminder that cooking is an adventure, and every dish is a canvas for creativity. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create something memorable together!

Shopping List for Sesame Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Sesame Chicken a success. Each ingredient brings its unique flavor, working together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but satisfying. The foundation starts with tender chicken, which is then coated to achieve the perfect crunchy texture. Seasoning is crucial, as the salt and pepper enhance the dish’s overall flavor. The sweet and sticky sauce, made with honey and soy sauce, adds a delightful finish, while sesame oil provides an aromatic touch. Let’s take a closer look at these essential components.

• 1 pound chicken breast – chopped into bite-sized pieces, this is the main ingredient that absorbs all the delightful flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances the taste of the chicken and other ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – adds a subtle heat that complements the dish.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce – imparts a savory depth that makes the dish more flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – used for marinating the chicken to ensure a crispy texture.
• 1 cup cornstarch – for dredging, creating the perfect coating for frying.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – combined with cornstarch to develop a crispy outer layer.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – helps create a light and airy batter.
• 1 cup cold water – used to prepare the batter, giving it the right consistency.
• 1 large egg – binds the ingredients in the batter for a perfect coating.
• 2 tablespoons oil – for frying, ensuring the chicken cooks beautifully.
• 1/4 cup honey – provides sweetness that balances the dish.
• 3 tablespoons light corn syrup – adds a glossy finish to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – contributes to the sweet-savory flavor profile.
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil – adds a nutty richness to the sauce.
• 2 green onions – thinly sliced, for garnish and freshness.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – to decorate and add a crunchy texture.

Sesame Chicken Instructions

Making Sesame Chicken is a delightful process that brings out the best flavors. Start by preparing the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated well to achieve that perfect crunch. It’s essential to follow the steps closely to maintain the integrity of the dish. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. In a mixing bowl, add the chicken, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let everything sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. On a flat surface or in a small bowl, add more cornstarch. Dust both sides of each piece of chicken evenly to ensure they’re well coated.
3. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cold water, and egg until a smooth batter forms.
4. In a large saucepan, add 1 to 2 inches of oil and place it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that golden brown color.
5. Moving quickly, take each piece of chicken, dredge it in the batter, and gently place it in the hot oil. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.
6. Cook each portion until golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.
7. In a small saucepan, add the honey, corn syrup, and another tablespoon of soy sauce. Heat until it bubbles, then add the sesame oil and whisk together until smooth.
8. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, then remove from heat.
9. Once all the chicken is fried, add it to the pan with the sauce and toss until each piece is well coated.
10. Finally, sprinkle the sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions on top for garnish before serving.

Variations to Try

Exploring variations of Sesame Chicken can be a fun way to discover your personal favorites. Whether you want to tweak the flavors or add new ingredients, there’s always a way to enhance this classic dish. Here are some wonderful ideas.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Spicy Sesame Chicken: If you enjoy heat, incorporate some chili paste or flakes to the batter or sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
• Orange Sesame Chicken: Add orange zest and juice to the sauce for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Cashew or Almond Addition: Toss in some roasted cashews or almonds for an added crunch.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles to balance the sauce.
• Adding Fresh Herbs: Top with cilantro or basil for an extra fresh note.

Great Combinations for Sesame Chicken

Serving Sesame Chicken can be just as enjoyable as making it. There are numerous options for side dishes and pairings that enhance the overall meal experience. Here’s what I recommend:

• Steamed Rice: Serve with fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the sweet-sour sauce.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry adds texture and nutrition to your plate.
• Salads: A light, crisp salad with a sesame dressing makes for a refreshing accompaniment.
• Quinoa: Quinoa is a great alternative to rice, providing a nutty flavor and added protein.
• Spring Rolls: Pair it with fresh spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
• Casual Gatherings: Perfect for casual get-togethers or family dinners, Sesame Chicken never disappoints.
• Meal Prep: Cook a large batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite not just for dinner but for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this recipe and relish the experience of sharing it with family and friends. You won’t regret it!

Sesame Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Sesame Chicken is a delicious blend of crispy chicken and rich, savory sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken breast chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons oil to fry
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds to decorate

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet

Method

 

1. In a mixing bowl, add the chicken, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Let everything sit for 10 minutes.
2. Add cornstarch onto a flat surface or small bowl and dust both sides of each piece of chicken with cornstarch.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cold water, and egg until a batter remains.
4. Add 1-2 inches of oil to a large saucepan and place over medium heat. Moving quickly, dredge the chicken in the batter. In batches, cook portions of the battered chicken until golden brown.
5. Add the honey, corn syrup, and soy sauce to a small saucepan or skillet. Once it bubbles, add the sesame oil and whisk together. Let everything simmer until it has thickened.
6. Add the chicken to the pan and toss together until all the chicken is covered.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions.

Notes

• To Store: Refrigerate sesame chicken within 2 hours after cooking it. Stored in an airtight container, sesame chicken will keep well for 3 to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Place the cooked and cooled chicken in a shallow container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• To Reheat: You can reheat sesame chicken in a skillet or in the microwave. But if you want to restore the crispiness of the chicken bits, reheat them in the oven or in the air fryer.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.