Easy Sesame Chicken

This Easy Sesame Chicken recipe brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen in less than 30 minutes. With tender fried chicken pieces enveloped in a sweet and tangy sesame sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its quick preparation makes it a go-to choice for those who crave deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 27 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for hectic evenings.
• Crispy Texture: The tempura batter ensures each bite is perfectly crispy, rivaling any restaurant-style sesame chicken.
• Flavorful Sauce: A perfect blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar creates a tantalizingly sweet and savory sauce that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or alongside vegetables for a complete meal that suits various tastes and dietary preferences.
• Easily Adjustable: This recipe can be scaled up or down based on your needs, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this easy sesame chicken, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pot for deep frying
• Cooking thermometer
• Wire rack or paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing for easy tossing with the sauce.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple sizes helps streamline the process.
• Cooking thermometer: Ensures oil is at the correct temperature for frying, resulting in perfectly crispy chicken.

Ingredients

Sesame Chicken Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds

Tempura Batter:

• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 egg whites
• 1/2 cup cold seltzer water

Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

How to Make Easy Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter

In another bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, egg whites, and cold seltzer water just until combined. Ensure all chicken pieces are coated evenly in this batter.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat three inches of vegetable oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the battered chicken in batches until golden brown. Transfer cooked chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper

In a large wok or skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Pour in the prepared sesame sauce into the wok. Add fried chicken pieces and toss quickly to ensure an even coating of sauce.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra sesame seeds if desired for added crunch and flavor. Enjoy your homemade easy sesame chicken!

How to Serve Easy Sesame Chicken

Easy Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various creative ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a simple meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and nutrition.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy alternative.

Topped with Green Onions

• Chopped green onions add a burst of flavor and color to each bite.

As Part of a Rice Bowl

• Combine with grains like quinoa or farro for a hearty meal.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Easy Sesame Chicken

To make your Easy Sesame Chicken truly exceptional, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality soy sauce significantly elevate the dish’s taste.
• Maintain oil temperature – Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying for crispy chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in small batches to achieve even cooking and avoid sogginess.
• Adjust sweetness – Tailor the amount of brown sugar in the sauce according to your taste preference.
• Garnish creatively – Add extra sesame seeds or sliced scallions for visual appeal and added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Sesame Chicken

Pairing your Easy Sesame Chicken with the right side dishes can make your meal more complete and satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice – A classic choice, fried rice complements the flavors of sesame chicken beautifully.
2. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables provide a delicious crunch.
3. Chow Mein – This noodle dish adds texture and is perfect for soaking up the sesame sauce.
4. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad balances the richness of the chicken.
5. Miso Soup – Light and flavorful, miso soup offers a warm counterpart to your meal.
6. Garlic Bok Choy – Sautéed bok choy with garlic is nutritious and enhances your plate’s color.
7. Spring Rolls – These light appetizers are perfect for starting your meal on a fresh note.
8. Steamed Dumplings – Filled with veggies or meat, dumplings are always a hit alongside any main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Sesame Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Preparation: Not preparing all ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos during cooking. Measure and chop everything before you start.
• Oil Temperature: Using oil that’s not hot enough will make your chicken soggy. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 350°F (175°C).
• Sauce Balance: Forgetting to taste the sauce can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always sample your sauce before adding the chicken.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too much chicken at once lowers the oil temperature. Cook in smaller batches for a crispier texture.
• Neglecting Garnish: Skipping sesame seeds can make your dish less appealing. Always garnish with extra sesame seeds for presentation and flavor.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Sesame Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power, stirring halfway, until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Sesame Chicken that may help clarify any uncertainties.

How do I make Easy Sesame Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, include additional crushed red pepper or sprinkle some chili flakes into the sauce before mixing with the chicken.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat; however, thighs tend to be juicier.

What side dishes go well with Easy Sesame Chicken?

Easy Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad for balance.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! Easy Sesame Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Just store it properly and reheat as needed throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Easy Sesame Chicken is not only quick but also brings comfort and joy with every bite. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels to your liking. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!