Sesame Chicken – Easy, Crispy, and Flavorful

Discover a crispy, savory Sesame Chicken recipe that’s simple to make and perfect for any weeknight. Try this delicious takeout favorite at home.

Sesame Chicken

If you crave takeout but want a healthier, homemade option, this Sesame Chicken recipe is the answer. This dish is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with a glossy, savory-sweet sauce. Perfect for weeknights, it’s easy to prepare and will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love It

Sesame Chicken is a beloved classic for a reason. It brings together a crispy coating and a sticky, flavorful sauce packed with umami and sweetness. This recipe is straightforward, uses simple pantry staples, and can be ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, it’s customizable to your spice preference and dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (can substitute chicken breast for leaner meat)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (can use arrowroot powder for gluten-free)
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying; can substitute with avocado oil)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp honey (replace with maple syrup for refined sugar-free)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whisk the eggs in a bowl. Place the cornstarch in a separate shallow dish.
2. Dip each piece of chicken first in the egg mixture, then coat evenly with cornstarch.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken pieces until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl to create the sauce.
5. Remove most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add the fried chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly with the sauce.
7. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite side.

Looking for other quick dinner ideas? Check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners for more inspiration.

Expert Tips

To get the crispiest chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F or 175°C). Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain temperature. For extra sauce thickness, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce.

If preparing ahead, keep the chicken and sauce separate until reheating to maintain crispiness. Gently reheat in a skillet to avoid sogginess.

Storage

Store leftover Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.
• Vegan: Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower florets, and replace eggs with a chickpea flour batter or aquafaba for coating.
• Dairy-Free & Refined-Sugar-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; substitute honey with maple syrup or coconut nectar.

FAQ

What makes sesame chicken crispy?

The combination of coating chicken in cornstarch and frying in hot oil creates a golden, crunchy exterior that holds the sauce well.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, but frying yields the best crispiness.

How do I store leftover sesame chicken?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve texture.

Is sesame chicken healthy?

This homemade version is healthier than most takeout since you control ingredients and avoid excess oil and preservatives.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when fried.

Call to Action

Have you tried this Sesame Chicken recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below, rate the dish, and save it for your next weeknight meal. Don’t forget to share with friends who love easy, delicious dinners!

For more recipes like this, visit our Asian Inspired Recipes section and explore additional flavors to enjoy.

For trusted cooking tips and information, visit Food Network.