Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
cut into 1 inch pieces
- 2 eggs
beaten
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce)
(reduced sodium if possible
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
Directions
- 1
Place the eggs, salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine
- 2
Place the flour and 1/2 cup of cornstarch in a shallow bowl or on a plate. Stir to combine.
- 3
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then into the flour. Repeat the process with all of the chicken.
- 4
Heat 3 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350 degrees F
- 5
Add 7-8 pieces of chicken to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken
- 6
Drain the chicken on paper towels
- 7
While the chicken is cooking, combine the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch in a bowl.
- 8
Heat the teaspoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the honey sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until just thickened.
- 9
Add the crispy chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, then serve.
Sesame Chicken
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Based on 301 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving that irresistible sticky, sweet, and savory goodness of restaurant-style sesame chicken, but want to make it even better at home? This recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken pieces coated in a luscious honey sesame sauce that will have you skipping takeout for good.
Why This Sesame Chicken Recipe Works
The magic in this sesame chicken lies in its dual approach to texture and flavor. We create an exceptionally crispy crust on the chicken using a smart blend of flour and cornstarch, ensuring each bite delivers that satisfying crunch you crave. This crunch is perfectly complemented by a rich, balanced sauce featuring the natural sweetness of honey, the deep umami of soy sauce, and a bright tang from rice vinegar, all infused with fragrant toasted sesame oil.
What truly sets this version apart is the homemade sauce. You'll love how the fresh garlic, brown sugar, and a touch of ketchup create a depth of flavor that's both comforting and exciting, making it superior to many store-bought or restaurant options. It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory that truly elevates the dish.
What to Expect
Prepare for a feast for your senses. Each tender piece of chicken, coated in its golden, crispy shell, is enveloped in a glossy, thick sauce that glistens with honey and sesame. The aroma alone will make your mouth water, promising a dish that's both familiar and incredibly satisfying.
The taste is a delightful dance of flavors: the initial sweetness from the honey and brown sugar, followed by the savory depth of soy and the subtle tang of vinegar. The toasted sesame oil provides an aromatic finish that lingers pleasantly, while the texture contrasts between the crunchy chicken and the smooth, sticky sauce are simply irresistible. This dish feels indulgent yet approachable, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Customization & Variations
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. For a slightly lighter option, you can certainly use reduced sodium soy sauce as suggested. If you prefer your sauce less sweet, feel free to slightly reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar to taste. While not traditional, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes could be stirred into the sauce for those who enjoy a hint of heat.
Serving & Context
This glorious sesame chicken is fantastic served hot, perhaps alongside some steamed white rice to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce. Garnish generously with fresh sesame seeds and vibrant sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. It’s an ideal dish for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for casual entertaining.