Sesame Chicken

Sesame Chicken is a delicious, crispy dish that brings the taste of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender chicken coated in a flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Sesame Chicken at home is a wonderful option for many reasons. First, it allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you know exactly what goes into your meal. Second, it gives you a chance to customize the flavors to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun and satisfying dish to prepare, especially when you see how quickly it comes together. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort, and you’ll enjoy the tasty results!

How to Make Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (for coating)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in cornstarch, dip it in the beaten eggs, and optionally coat it with flour for extra crunch.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
3. In another pan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and hoisin sauce. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water, then stir it into the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens.
5. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until it is well coated. Sprinkling sesame seeds and chopped green onions will add the final touch!
6. Serve your delicious Sesame Chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken

When serving Sesame Chicken, a bed of fluffy steamed rice or a side of noodles works perfectly. The sauce from the chicken adds flavor and moisture to the rice or noodles, making each bite delightful. Garnishing with extra sesame seeds and green onions adds a beautiful touch.

How to Store Sesame Chicken

If you have leftover Sesame Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet or the microwave until warmed through. The chicken might lose some of its crispiness, but it will still be delicious!

Tips to Make Sesame Chicken

• For a crispier texture, consider double-coating the chicken by dipping it back into the eggs and then again in flour before frying.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.
• If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce to give it a kick!

Variation

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish. Simply stir-fry them before adding the sauce and chicken for a colorful and nutritious twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They will add more flavor and remain juicy.

2. Can I make Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
You can replace the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Use gluten-free cornstarch and flour as well for coating the chicken.

3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up before tossing it with the fried chicken.

Enjoy your homemade Sesame Chicken, and don’t forget to share this tasty recipe with family and friends!