Sesame Chicken

In this Sesame Chicken recipe, you’ll discover how to create a delightful dish that blends tender chicken with a sweet and savory sesame sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this quick recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy families. The combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Sesame Chicken can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory sesame sauce brings an irresistible taste that’s sure to please everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, broccoli, or your favorite vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy chicken and delicious sauce, making it great for the whole family.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal dishes required, you can enjoy your meal without the stress of extensive cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process seamless. Having the right equipment on hand can significantly enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wide shallow dish
• Clean plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the chicken evenly while allowing you to mix in the sauce easily.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for both the sauce and egg mixture, ensuring great texture.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

In this Sesame Chicken recipe, tender bites of chicken are coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce. This easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. Serve it with rice and broccoli for a delicious meal.

Ingredients:
– ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
– ¼ cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce (or pinch red pepper flakes, optional but recommended)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
– 2 large eggs
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¾ cup all purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons canola oil (or avocado oil)
– cooked white or brown rice
– chopped green onions
– sesame seeds

How to Make Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a wide, shallow dish or pie plate:
1. Combine the eggs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In a second wide, shallow dish:
1. Place the flour.
2. Working in two batches, coat the chicken pieces first in the egg mixture and then in flour, gently shaking off any excess.
3. Place coated chicken pieces on a clean plate.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add coated chicken pieces using tongs.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 10 minutes), stirring/flipping gently.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

1. Move chicken pieces to one side of the pan.
2. Pour sauce into the other side of the pan.
3. Cook while stirring until thickened (1–2 minutes).
4. Toss chicken pieces with sauce gently.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately over rice and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 17 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: sesame chicken

Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!

How to Serve Sesame Chicken

Sesame Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
• Fried Rice: For an extra kick, serve your sesame chicken over flavorful fried rice packed with veggies.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: This classic pairing complements the chicken’s flavors while adding a nutritional boost.
• Sautéed Snow Peas: Crisp and sweet, snow peas add crunch and freshness to the dish.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a lovely contrast to the savory sesame sauce.

With Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds color and a mild onion flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top for added texture and nutty taste.

How to Perfect Sesame Chicken

To achieve the best results with your sesame chicken, follow these helpful tips that ensure delicious flavors and textures.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor in your sauce.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before cooking and adjust honey or sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Coat Properly: Ensure each chicken piece is fully coated in both egg and flour for optimal crunchiness.
• Control Heat: Keep an eye on the heat while cooking to prevent burning but ensure thorough cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest before serving helps maintain its juiciness.
• Customize Spice Level: Add more chili sauce or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.

Best Side Dishes for Sesame Chicken

Pairing sesame chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil adds a crisp contrast.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies are perfect for an appetizer or side dish.
3. Asian Slaw: A colorful slaw featuring cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing offers crunch and zing.
4. Miso Soup: This warm soup with tofu and seaweed makes for a comforting addition to your meal.
5. Chow Mein Noodles: Stir-fried noodles provide a delightful chewy texture alongside the chicken.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of sesame chicken, balancing the flavors.
7. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables pair well for a hearty side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sesame Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this process; it’s worth the wait.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: High-sodium soy can overpower your dish. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to maintain balance in flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Not monitoring heat levels: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the coating. Adjust the heat as needed for perfect golden-brown chicken.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping green onions and sesame seeds leaves out essential texture and flavor. Always garnish for a complete dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sesame Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze Sesame Chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion of chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist. Stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Sesame Chicken extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken pieces by dipping them again in the egg mixture before adding flour.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken for Sesame Chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute tofu, shrimp, or beef for different protein options that work well with the sesame sauce.

What sides pair well with Sesame Chicken?

Serve it with steamed broccoli, fried rice, or noodles to complement its sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch, and replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

To customize sweetness, vary the amount of honey or brown sugar according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

This easy Sesame Chicken recipe is both quick and satisfying, making it a perfect weeknight meal. With its sweet and savory flavors, this dish is versatile enough to adapt based on your preferences. Feel free to add vegetables or tweak the sauces for unique variations!