Sesame Chicken: The Ultimate Guide to Making It Perfectly

Sesame Chicken, that glistening, sweet, and savory delight, is a dish that has captured hearts (and stomachs!) worldwide. Have you ever wondered how something so incredibly delicious could be so easy to make at home? Forget the takeout menus tonight because I’m going to show you how to create restaurant-quality Sesame Chicken right in your own kitchen!

While its exact origins are debated, Sesame Chicken is widely believed to be an American-Chinese creation, evolving from traditional Chinese cooking techniques to suit the Western palate. It’s a testament to the beautiful fusion of cultures, taking the best of both worlds to create something truly special. The use of sesame seeds, of course, has a long and rich history in Asian cuisine, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

But what is it about Sesame Chicken that makes it so irresistible? Is it the crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces? The luscious, sticky sauce that clings to every morsel? Or perhaps it’s the satisfying crunch of the sesame seeds that dance on your tongue? I think it’s all of the above! People adore this dish because it offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, all wrapped up in a convenient and comforting package. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. So, let’s get cooking and unlock the secrets to the best Sesame Chicken you’ve ever tasted!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup water
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Sesame Sauce:
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, for garnish
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
• For Serving (Optional):
• Cooked white rice or brown rice
• Steamed broccoli or other vegetables

Preparing the Chicken:

Okay, let’s get started with the chicken. This is the foundation of our delicious Sesame Chicken, so we want to make sure we get it right. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it looks!

1. Prepare the Chicken Pieces: First, take your chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch each. I prefer thighs because they stay nice and juicy, but you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook it!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give our chicken that crispy coating we all love. Make sure everything is well combined so you don’t get any clumps of cornstarch.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the water. The water helps to thin out the eggs and create a lighter coating.
4. Coat the Chicken: Now comes the fun part! Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. You want a nice, even layer of the dry mixture on each piece.
5. Rest the Chicken (Optional): This step is optional, but I find it helps the coating stick better. Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the coating to dry slightly and adhere more firmly to the chicken.

Making the Sesame Sauce:

While the chicken is resting (or if you skipped that step, right now!), let’s whip up the sesame sauce. This sauce is what gives the dish its signature flavor, so we want to get it just right. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy!

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent any lumps in the sauce.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the saucepan. These aromatics will infuse the sauce with a wonderful depth of flavor. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes as well.
3. Cook the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. As the sauce heats up, the cornstarch will thicken it. Continue to simmer and stir for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened to your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. If it’s too salty, add a little more honey or water. If it’s not sweet enough, add a little more honey. If it needs more tang, add a splash of rice vinegar.
5. Keep Warm: Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and keep it warm until the chicken is cooked. You can cover the saucepan to prevent the sauce from forming a skin on top.

Frying the Chicken:

Now for the crispy part! Frying the chicken is what gives it that irresistible texture. Make sure you have everything ready before you start, as the frying process goes quickly.

1. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or pot to reach a depth of about 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to check the temperature, or you can test it by dropping a small piece of chicken into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Chicken in Batches: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
3. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.

Combining and Serving:

Almost there! Now we just need to combine the chicken and sauce, and then we can enjoy our delicious Sesame Chicken.

1. Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a large bowl, add the fried chicken and pour the sesame sauce over it. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle the sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken. These add a nice visual appeal and a boost of flavor.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Sesame Chicken immediately over cooked white rice or brown rice. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or other vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in batches to ensure it’s crispy and evenly cooked.
• Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: The sesame sauce is very versatile, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey. If you like a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially garlic and ginger, will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Serve Immediately: Sesame Chicken is best served immediately after it’s made. The chicken will lose its crispiness if it sits for too long.

Variations:

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier kick. You can also add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Sesame Chicken with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the sauce along with the chicken. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas are all great options.
• Baked Sesame Chicken: For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Toss the coated chicken with a little oil and bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and golden brown.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen. I truly believe this Sesame Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Asian-inspired cuisine, or frankly, anyone who appreciates a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of the crispy, golden-brown chicken, the savory-sweet sesame sauce, and the fragrant aroma is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

But what makes this recipe truly special? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is incredibly tender on the inside and delightfully crispy on the outside, thanks to the simple yet effective breading technique. The sauce is a symphony of sweet, savory, and umami, with just the right amount of sesame flavor to tantalize your taste buds. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up this restaurant-quality dish in your own home.

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. While this Sesame Chicken is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy white rice, you can also pair it with brown rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a different twist. For a healthier option, try serving it with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a vibrant Asian slaw. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat, or incorporate some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots into the dish.

Want to take it to the next level? Consider making a batch of homemade egg rolls or spring rolls to serve alongside your Sesame Chicken. A simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a refreshing complement to the richness of the dish. And don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a few sprigs of cilantro can add a pop of color and flavor to your presentation.

I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My family and friends rave about it, and I’m confident that you’ll love it too. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic. I’m absolutely certain that you’ll be thrilled with the results. This Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Sesame Chicken success!