Name: Ultimate Sesame Chicken: Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistibly Good
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken (bite-sized pieces of dark meat); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (for coating); 1/2 cup Flour (for coating); 1 large Egg White (for batter); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (can use gluten-free); 2 tablespoons Honey (adjust for sweetness); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Ketchup (for tanginess); 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar (or lemon juice); 1 tablespoon Shaoxing Wine (or sake, optional); 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil (to finish); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (for garnish); 2 tablespoons Green Onion (freshly sliced)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken filled the air, transporting me to my favorite local Chinese restaurant. There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of crispy texture and a sweet-savory glaze, and that’s exactly what this Crispy Sesame Chicken brings to the table. Not only is this dish a wonderful option for a busy weeknight meal, but it’s also customizable to suit your personal tastes—whether you prefer a bit of heat or want to swap out chicken for something like tofu or beef. The best part? It’s a guilt-free indulgence that can easily be made gluten-free and nut-free! So, are you ready to create a homemade version that’s just as satisfying as your beloved takeout? Let’s dive in!

Why is Sesame Chicken a Must-Try?

Crispy Texture: Each piece features a perfectly crunchy outside that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
Customizable: Easily swap chicken for beef, pork, or even plant-based proteins for a delightful twist!
Flavor Explosion: This dish balances sweet and savory notes, enhanced by nutty sesame oil that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick to Make: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout!
Family Favorite: Everyone at the table will love this comforting classic; it’s sure to become a staple!
Make sure to check out our Honey Garlic Chicken for another easy, crowd-pleasing dish!

Sesame Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken – Bite-sized pieces provide the main protein; dark meat offers extra tenderness.

For the Batter
• Cornstarch – Creates a light, crispy batter; combine with flour for optimal texture.
• Flour – Adds thickness and enhances the fried coating’s crunchiness.
• Egg White – Promotes a crisp outer layer; omit the yolk for a lighter finish.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Delivers savory depth; use gluten-free soy sauce for dietary needs.
• Honey – Adds a sweet touch to balance the savory elements; adjust for personal sweetness preference.
• Brown Sugar – Deepens the sweetness of the sauce; feel free to modify to taste.
• Ketchup – Introduces a sweet, tangy note; blend well for a thicker sauce.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds tanginess; can be swapped with lemon juice if necessary.
• Shaoxing Wine – Boosts flavor complexity; can be replaced with sake or omitted entirely.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses bold, nutty flavor; add at the end to maintain its essence.

For Garnishing
• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for crunch and a touch of aroma.
• Green Onion – Freshly sliced, elevates both presentation and flavor.

Get ready to enjoy the delightful flavors of Sesame Chicken!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch and flour to create a crisp coating for your sesame chicken. Whisk in an egg white until you achieve a smooth batter. This mixture should be somewhat thick but pourable. Dip bite-sized chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated to achieve the perfect crunch when fried. Set aside while you prepare the oil for frying.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and float to the top. For an extra crispy texture, consider double-frying the chicken for an additional 2 minutes. Once done, remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, and shaoxing wine over medium heat. Stir the mixture well, letting it come to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy in consistency. Keep an eye on the sauce so it doesn’t burn, adjusting the heat as necessary.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, add the fried chicken pieces into the saucepan. Quickly toss everything together for about 15-30 seconds, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in the sweet and savory sesame sauce. This step is crucial; do it swiftly to prevent the chicken from losing its crispness while absorbing the flavor.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the pan from the heat and drizzle in the sesame oil, mixing it gently with the chicken and sauce for added flavor depth. Transfer the coated sesame chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions for a delightful garnish. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste, pairing perfectly with steamed rice or your favorite sides.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken

Right Temperature: Maintain oil at 350°F (175°C) when frying; this ensures a crispy texture and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.
Quick Tossing: When combining the fried chicken with the sauce, do it swiftly—15-30 seconds is all you need to coat without losing crispiness.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your sauce while simmering; you can increase honey or brown sugar to suit your preference for sweet-savory balance in your sesame chicken.
Avoid Sogginess: To retain crispiness, serve sesame chicken immediately after combining it with the sauce, as it’s best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Customize Protein: Don’t hesitate to swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or plant-based options like tofu, making your sesame chicken suited to your dietary needs.

Sesame Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Sesame Chicken recipe—it’s a canvas for your culinary imagination!

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce to elevate the heat level. The combination of sweetness with spiciness creates a delightful contrast.
Beef or Shrimp: Swap chicken for beef or shrimp for a different protein experience. Each option brings its unique flavors and textures that are equally delicious.
Plant-Based Twist: Use extra-firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegan alternative that soaks up the sweet-savory sauce beautifully. It’s an excellent option for satisfying plant-based cravings.
Gluten-Free Needs: Opt for gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free to create a dish everyone can enjoy.
Veggie Boost: Stir-fry fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas alongside the chicken for an extra nutritional punch. The added crunch enhances both flavor and texture.
Dairy-Free Delight: Keep it entirely dairy-free by ensuring that all your sauces and ingredients don’t contain dairy. Most Asian ingredients tend to be naturally dairy-free, so you’re in luck!
Citrus Infusion: Brighten your sauce with a splash of orange juice or zest. The citrusy note balances the sweetness and adds freshness to the dish.

While you’re experimenting, why not try it out with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf or give the Fiery Chicken Ramen a shot for something spicy? There are countless ways to tailor this meal to suit everyone’s tastes!

How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its best flavor and avoid sogginess.

Freezer: Freeze uncoated, cooked chicken pieces separately from the sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat the chicken directly from frozen; heat the sauce separately.

Reheating: When reheating, you can pan-fry the chicken again to restore its crispiness. Heat the sauce gently in a saucepan until warmed through.

Sauce Storage: Store any extra sauce in the fridge for up to a week; it’s a delicious dip for other dishes or stir-fries too!

What to Serve with Crispy Sesame Chicken?

Looking for the perfect sides to enhance your delightful homemade meal?

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft and fragrant, this classic pairing soaks up the sweet and savory sauce beautifully.
Crispy Fried Rice: Packed with vegetables and egg, this fried rice adds a rich texture that complements the dish perfectly.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a fresh crunch and extra nutrition that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy notes offers a crisp bite, balancing the richness of sesame chicken.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed with soy sauce and sesame oil, these noodles provide a flavorful accompaniment that harmonizes with the chicken’s taste.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Their light, crispy shell makes for a fun and textural contrast alongside the savory chicken.
Hot-and-Sour Soup: This delicious soup warms up the meal with its spicy and tangy notes, elevating the overall dining experience.
Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of white wine perfectly enhances the dish, offering refreshing notes that cut through the richness.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat provides a tropical finish to your meal, matching the sweetness of the chicken.

These options not only complement the stunning flavors of your sesame chicken but also transform your meal into a delightful feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Sesame Chicken bites are a game-changer for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken coating and cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before combining. To maintain that irresistible crunch, keep the fried chicken separate until you’re ready to toss it in the sauce—this prevents sogginess. When it’s time to serve, quickly reheat the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, then coat with the warm sauce, and enjoy a homemade takeout favorite that’s just as delicious!

Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my sesame chicken?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for bite-sized pieces of dark meat chicken, as it offers extra tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, boneless, skinless chicken breast works too. You can also use beef, pork, or extra-firm tofu for plant-based alternatives—just ensure you adjust cooking times appropriately for each protein.

What is the best way to store leftover sesame chicken?
Very good question! Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To help maintain its crispiness, keep the sauce separate from the chicken. Just be mindful to consume it within the timeframe to enjoy the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze sesame chicken, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze sesame chicken, first cool the cooked chicken completely. Then, place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. I recommend freezing the uncoated chicken separately from the sauce for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the chicken directly from frozen in a pan, and warm the sauce separately.

What should I do if my sesame chicken turns soggy after being mixed with the sauce?
Very common issue! To prevent sogginess, it’s crucial to toss the chicken in the sauce quickly—15-30 seconds is ideal. If you find that your chicken has lost some crispiness, consider giving it a quick re-fry in hot oil for a minute to restore that beautiful crunch before serving.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind for sesame chicken?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce. If you have nut allergies, you can substitute sesame oil with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil while still capturing the essence of flavor. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How can I make my sesame chicken spicier?
For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture while it simmers. I often start with a small amount and taste as I go, adjusting to my heat preference. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing your dish!