Easy Sesame Chicken for the Perfect Dinner

Picture a plate of golden, crispy chicken pieces glistening with a sweet and savory sauce, sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds. You’re looking at Sesame Chicken, a beloved staple of American-Chinese cuisine. This dish perfectly balances the crunch of fried chicken with the umami-rich flavors of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. While it’s a crowd-pleaser at Chinese restaurants across the U.S., you might be surprised to learn about its relatively recent origins and how it reflects the evolution of Chinese cooking in America. Let’s explore the story behind this popular dish and discover how you can recreate it at home.

Sesame Chicken Origins in American-Chinese Cuisine

Sesame Chicken’s origins can be traced back to the development of American-Chinese cuisine in the mid-20th century. You might be surprised to learn that this beloved dish isn’t authentically Chinese at all! It’s a perfect example of how cultural influences can shape culinary traditions.

As Chinese immigrants settled in the United States, they adapted their cooking to suit American tastes and available ingredients. This fusion gave birth to dishes like Sesame Chicken, which combines Chinese cooking techniques with flavors that appeal to Western palates.

Have you ever wondered why it’s so popular? The dish’s sweet and savory profile, coupled with its crispy texture, struck a chord with American diners. Over time, Sesame Chicken became a staple in Chinese-American restaurants across the country.

But did you know there are regional variations? In some areas, you’ll find it spicier, while others might emphasize the sweetness. These differences reflect the diverse tastes of local communities and the creativity of chefs.

Isn’t it fascinating how a single dish can evolve and take on new forms as it travels?

Recipe

Sesame Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish that combines crispy chicken pieces with a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with golden-brown chicken coated in a light batter and tossed in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and toasted sesame oil.

This dish isn’t only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The crispy exterior of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy meat inside, while the sauce provides a perfect blend of sweetness and umami. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions, this Sesame Chicken is sure to be a hit with both adults and children alike.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the Sesame Chicken, start by coating the chicken pieces in cornstarch, then dip them in beaten eggs. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl. Once all the chicken is cooked, remove excess oil from the pan and return it to medium heat. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

For best results, verify the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to achieve a crispy exterior. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the pan when adding the sauce. To make the dish spicier, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave, though the chicken may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating.

Sesame Chicken Prep Time, Cooking Time & Serving Size

Planning your meal preparation is key to making this delicious Sesame Chicken dish efficiently. You’ll want to allocate about 20 minutes for prep work and 15 minutes for cooking. This recipe serves 4, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Have you considered your prep strategies? Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces while you gather your other ingredients. Whisking the eggs and mixing the sauce components in advance can save you time when you’re in the thick of cooking.

As for cooking techniques, you’ll be employing a quick fry method to achieve that crispy exterior. Remember, the key to perfect Sesame Chicken is maintaining a hot oil temperature. You don’t want soggy chicken, do you?

Once you’ve mastered the frying technique, you’ll move on to the sauce. It’s a quick process, but timing is essential. Can you imagine the sizzle as the sauce hits the pan?

Sesame Chicken Cooking Steps

Ready to whip up some mouthwatering Sesame Chicken?

You’ll start by coating the chicken pieces in cornstarch and eggs, then frying them to golden perfection.

While the chicken sizzles, you’ll prepare a tantalizing sauce mixture, and once everything’s cooked, you’ll toss the crispy chicken in this flavorful concoction.

Sounds simple enough, right?

Let’s break down each step to guarantee you nail this delicious dish!

Sesame Chicken

Mysterious origins and mouthwatering flavors combine in this American-Chinese favorite. Discover the secrets behind Sesame Chicken's crispy, sweet-savory allure.

Servings 4

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts (skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (fresh, grated)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted)
• 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

 

• Coat Chicken in Cornstarch

  To begin the cooking process, place the cornstarch in a shallow dish or bowl. You'll want to make sure you have enough to coat all your chicken pieces thoroughly.

  Now, let's talk about coating techniques. One effective method is to use a fork to gently toss each chicken piece in the cornstarch, making sure it's evenly coated on all sides. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty, though! Sometimes using your fingers can help you achieve a more even coating.

  Have you ever wondered about the cornstarch benefits in this recipe? Well, it's not just about creating a crispy exterior. Cornstarch also helps seal in the chicken's natural juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

  Plus, it'll give your sauce something to cling to later on. As you're coating, you might notice the cornstarch clumping on your fingers. That's normal! Just be certain to shake off any excess before moving on to the next step.
  
• Dip Chicken in Eggs

  Dipping the chicken in eggs is your next vital step in creating the perfect Sesame Chicken. After coating your chicken pieces in cornstarch, you'll move on to the egg dipping process. This significant step in chicken battering guarantees a golden, crispy exterior that'll have your taste buds dancing.

  Grab a shallow bowl and crack two eggs into it. Whisk them thoroughly until they're well-combined. Now, it's time to get your hands a little messy. Take each cornstarch-coated chicken piece and dip it into the beaten eggs, making certain it's completely covered.

  As you're doing this, you might wonder, "Why is this step so important?" Well, the egg acts as a binder, helping the cornstarch stick to the chicken and creating that irresistible crispy layer we all love.

  Don't rush this process. Take your time to guarantee each piece is evenly coated. As you work, you'll notice the egg mixture gradually thickening – that's normal. If it gets too thick, simply whisk in a tablespoon of water to thin it out.

  Ready for the next step?
  
• Fry Chicken Until Golden

  Once you've coated all your chicken pieces, it's time to fry them to golden perfection.

  Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You'll want the oil hot enough to create that satisfying sizzle when the chicken hits the pan. But how do you know when it's ready? Here's a pro tip: drop a small piece of batter into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface, you're good to go!

  Now, let's talk frying techniques. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. This guarantees each piece gets the space it needs to achieve that coveted chicken crispiness.

  Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning once. You're aiming for a beautiful golden-brown color. Keep an eye on the heat, adjusting as needed to prevent burning. Remember, patience is key here. Rushing the process won't do you any favors.

  As each batch finishes, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Ready to take your Sesame Chicken to the next level?
  
• Prepare Sauce Mixture

  While your chicken is frying to golden perfection, you'll want to prepare the mouthwatering sauce that gives Sesame Chicken its signature flavor.

  Grab a medium bowl and gather your sauce ingredients: soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Wondering about proportions? Don't worry, we've you taken care of.

  Start by pouring in 1/4 cup each of soy sauce and honey. These form the base of your sauce, balancing salty and sweet.

  Next, add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar for a tangy kick. Now, it's time for the star ingredient – drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Can you smell that nutty aroma?

  Finally, toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger for depth and warmth. Whisk everything together until well combined.

  How's the sauce consistency? It should be smooth and pourable, not too thick or thin. If needed, adjust by adding a touch more honey or soy sauce.
  
• Toss Chicken in Sauce

  The moment of truth has arrived for your Sesame Chicken. It's time to bring all the elements together and create that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ready to elevate your dish to restaurant-quality status?

  First, check your sauce consistency. Is it thick enough to coat the back of a spoon? If not, let it simmer for another minute or two.

  Now, return your crispy chicken to the pan and gently toss it in the sauce. Use a folding motion to guarantee each piece is evenly coated without breaking the crispy exterior. As you're tossing, pay attention to the flavor balance. Does it need a touch more sweetness or umami? This is your chance to adjust.

  Keep the chicken moving in the pan for about 2-3 minutes. You'll notice the sauce starting to caramelize slightly, creating those irresistible sticky bits.

  Want to add an extra layer of flavor? Sprinkle in some toasted sesame seeds as you're tossing. They'll adhere to the sauce, adding a nutty crunch to each bite.
  

Nutrition

Calories: 541kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 41gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 191mgSodium: 1043mgPotassium: 751mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 230IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 72mgIron: 2mg

Calories: 541kcal

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American-Chinese

Keyword: Comfort food chicken dishes, Crispy sesame chicken with sauce, Easy meals for busy weeknights, Easy sesame chicken recipe, Family-friendly dinner recipes, How to make sesame chicken at home, Quick and easy dinner ideas, Sweet and savory chicken recipe

Swaps And Substitutions

Cooking up Sesame Chicken doesn’t mean you’re stuck with the exact ingredients listed. You’ve got options to customize this dish to your liking or dietary needs.

Want to make it gluten-free? Swap out regular soy sauce for tamari and use a gluten-free flour blend instead of cornstarch. Looking for protein swaps? Try tofu, tempeh, or even cauliflower florets for a vegetarian twist.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors, too. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile
• Swap vegetable oil for coconut oil to add a subtle tropical note
• Use almond flour instead of cornstarch for a nutty flavor and lower carb count

Serving Suggestions And Meal Pairings

Now that you’ve mastered the art of customizing your Sesame Chicken, let’s explore how to serve it for maximum enjoyment. While it’s delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights.

Consider these flavor combinations to create a balanced and satisfying dining experience:

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• Steamed jasmine rice: Its subtle aroma and fluffy texture perfectly complement the rich, savory chicken.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful medley of crisp veggies adds vitality and nutritional value.
• Asian-inspired slaw: The crunch and tanginess provide a revitalizing contrast to the sweet and sticky chicken.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to serving your Sesame Chicken.

Why not try it as a filling for lettuce wraps or served over noodles instead of rice? You could even use it as a topping for a fusion-style pizza or stuff it into a bao bun for a unique twist.

Remember, the key is to balance flavors and textures.

Have you considered how different side dishes might enhance your Sesame Chicken experience? Experiment with various combinations to find your perfect meal pairing.

Store in Airtight Container

Properly storing your leftover Sesame Chicken is vital for maintaining its quality and safety. After you’ve enjoyed your meal, don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste! You’ll want to store them correctly to guarantee they’re just as tasty when you’re ready for round two.

First, let the chicken cool to room temperature, but don’t leave it out for more than two hours. Then, transfer it to an airtight container – this step is essential for leftover storage.

Here are some key points to remember:

• Use a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent air exposure
• Label the container with the date to track freshness
• Store in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C)

When it’s time for chicken reheating, you’ve got options. The microwave is quick, but it might make the chicken soggy. For best results, try reheating in a skillet over medium heat. This method helps restore some of that crispy texture you loved in the original dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to preparing Sesame Chicken, you might’ve some questions. Let’s address some common queries to help you master this delicious dish.

First, can you use chicken alternatives? Absolutely! While traditional recipes call for chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with thighs, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian twist. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Wondering about cooking tips to elevate your Sesame Chicken game? Here are a few:

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor
• Use a thermometer to verify the oil is at 350°F for peak frying
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain crispiness

Curious about make-ahead options? You can prepare the sauce and cut the chicken in advance, storing them separately in the fridge.

This way, you’ll save time when you’re ready to cook. Remember, the key to perfect Sesame Chicken is achieving that balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. With these tips and alternatives, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Any other burning questions?

Final Thoughts

Three key takeaways emerge as we wrap up our exploration of Sesame Chicken.

First, you’ve mastered a beloved Chinese-American classic that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Second, you’ve learned the importance of balancing flavors and textures to create a truly satisfying dish.

Third, you’ve gained the confidence to experiment with flavor variations and serving tips to make this recipe your own.

Have you considered trying different sweeteners like maple syrup or brown sugar? What about adding a splash of citrus for a tangy twist?

Don’t be afraid to play with the sauce ingredients to suit your taste buds.

As for serving, why not get creative? Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, fried rice, or even tucked into lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

Remember, presentation matters too. A sprinkle of extra sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate your dish from good to great.

With these skills in your culinary arsenal, you’re well-equipped to tackle other Asian-inspired recipes.

What’ll you cook up next?

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