How to Make Sweet & Savory Sesame Chicken

Chicken is a versatile and nutritious protein source, offering a wealth of health benefits. It's rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, and contains important nutrients like vitamin B12, choline, zinc, iron, and copper.

One dish that truly exemplifies chicken's potential is Sesame Chicken. This recipe features golden, crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. It's a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that can be prepared in just forty minutes, making it an excellent option for a homemade meal. Pair it with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded dining experience. So, let's dive into this Sesame Chicken recipe and discover how this delectable dish can become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Why You'll Love This Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe

• Better Than Takeout: Skip the delivery fees and sodium overload; this recipe is fresh, flavorful, and just as indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have dinner on the table in 40 minutes flat.
• Customizable: Prefer it spicier? Add chili flakes. Want it lighter? Air-fry or bake the chicken.

Ingredients 

For the Chicken:

• • • 1 large chicken breast, chopped into small pieces
    • 1/4 cup oil (for frying)
    • 2 eggs
    • 5 tablespoons cornstarch
    • 8 tablespoons plain flour
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 2 teaspoons paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)

For the Sauce:

• • • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 1 teaspoon garlic, crushed with a garlic press tool
    • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 3 tablespoons tomato sauce
    • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
    • 4 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
    • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

For Serving:

• • • White rice, stir-fried veggies, or a fresh salad

How to Make Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Grab one bowl from this contour bowl set and combine the chicken pieces, garlic powder, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs with an egg beater push whisk.
3. In another bowl, mix the cornstarch and flour.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the oil in a large frying skillet over medium heat.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour mixture. Repeat for all chicken pieces.
3. Fry the chicken in batches of 7-8 pieces, cooking for about 5 minutes per batch or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Heat sesame oil in a clean frying pan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in rice vinegar, honey, tomato sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the crispy chicken pieces to the pan with the sauce. Toss until every piece is evenly coated in the sticky, glossy goodness.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
3. Serve and Enjoy!
4. Plate your Sesame Chicken alongside steamed white rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even noodles for a complete meal.
5. Dive in and enjoy every bite of this sweet, savory, and crispy delight! 

Zulay's Expert Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken

• • For ultra-crispy chicken, double-dip in the egg and flour mixture.
  • Adjust the amount of honey or sugar in the sauce to suit your taste.
  • Bake or air-fry the chicken for a lighter version.
  • Chop the chicken and mix the sauce ingredients in advance for an even faster dinner.
  • Love a spicy kick? Add a dash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Sesame Chicken Through the Ages

Did you know that sesame chicken has roots in American Chinese cuisine? While not an authentic Chinese dish, it was inspired by traditional Chinese cooking techniques and flavors. The crispy fried chicken and sweet, tangy sauce make it a staple in Chinese-American restaurants. Making it at home allows you to enjoy this fusion favorite with a personal touch.

Pairing Ideas for Sesame Chicken

• • Rice Varieties: Pair your Sesame Chicken with jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
  • Vegetable Sides: Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a medley of stir-fried vegetables complement the dish perfectly.
  • Refreshing Drinks: Serve with iced green tea, lemonade, or even a light sparkling wine to balance the richness of the sauce.

Sesame Chicken Custom Variations

If you love this Sesame Chicken recipe, try experimenting with other flavors:

• • Orange Sesame Chicken: Add a splash of orange juice and zest to the sauce for a citrusy twist.
  • Spicy Sesame Chicken: Mix in chili paste or sriracha for a fiery kick.
  • Honey Sesame Tofu: Swap the chicken for tofu and follow the same process for a vegetarian delight.

Why Sesame Chicken is a Family Favorite

Sesame Chicken has it all: texture, flavor, and versatility. Kids love its sweet taste, while adults appreciate the balance of savory and tangy notes. It’s an all-in-one dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Plus, making it at home allows you to customize everything from spice levels to sodium content, making it healthier and fresher than any takeout alternative.

Made Too Much Sesame Chicken? 

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (good luck with that!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to retain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

This Better-Than-Takeout Sesame Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when the craving for takeout strikes. It’s crispy, sticky, and bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. The balance of sweet and savory notes ensures it’ll be a hit with everyone at the table. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Your feedback makes us better!

Share the Love

Know someone who’d love this recipe? Share it with your friends and family on social media! Tag @zulay_kitchen and use #kitchenhappiness to show off your creations. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? 

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe.

What can I substitute for sesame oil? 

If you’re out of sesame oil, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, but you’ll lose some of the signature nutty flavor.

How can I make it gluten-free? 

Swap the plain flour and soy sauce for gluten-free alternatives, and you’re good to go!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian? 

Sure! Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower. Just follow the same breading and frying process.