I still remember the first time I made sesame chicken at home. The scent of toasted sesame oil wafted through the kitchen as the crispy chicken simmered in the savory, honeyed sauce, and I couldn’t wait to taste it.
It’s a recipe that blends both comfort and excitement with its luscious flavors and delightful crunch. Whether you’re looking for a quick, family-friendly dinner or a way to impress your dinner guests, this sesame chicken recipe checks all the boxes.
If you enjoy hearty, flavorful meals, you can also explore this smoked sausage and rice recipe for another satisfying option.
Ingredients for Sesame Chicken
The secret to memorable sesame chicken starts with the freshest ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Tip: Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites. - 2 eggs, beaten
Why: The glue for that crispy coating. - ½ cup all-purpose flour
Pro Tip: Sift it first for an even coat. - ½ cup cornstarch
Why: Adds extra crunch to the breading. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Tip: Don’t skip this, it’s the foundation of flavor. - Oil for frying
Suggestion: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola.
For the Sauce
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Why: Helps sauté the garlic without burning it. - 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
Tip: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce’s flavor. - ¼ cup honey
Why: Balances the savory soy sauce. - ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
Tip: Reduces saltiness for a balanced finish. - 2 tablespoons ketchup
Why: Adds a subtle tang and vibrant color. - 3 tablespoons brown sugar
Tip: Use dark brown sugar for a richer molasses taste. - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Why: Cuts through the sauce’s sweetness. - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
Crucial: This is the heart of sesame chicken’s signature flavor. - 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Why: Thickens the sauce to coat the chicken perfectly. - 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Tip: Toast them for an extra nutty aroma. - 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
Why: A fresh and zesty garnish to finish.
Note: Serves approximately 5–6 people generously.
Variations for Sesame Chicken
Making sesame chicken your own is easy with substitutions and tweaks:
- Healthier Option: Skip deep frying and instead sauté the chicken pieces in a small amount of oil for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use tamari in place of soy sauce.
- Low-Sugar: Use a sugar-free honey substitute and reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed broccoli or snap peas for a complete, balanced meal.
Cooking Time
This recipe is swift to make, perfect for weeknight dinners!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s a simple checklist to make your cooking experience smooth:
- Deep skillet or wok – For perfectly frying the chicken.
- Mixing bowls – To prepare both the batter and sauce.
- Slotted spoon – To scoop the chicken out of the oil efficiently.
- Whisk – Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Paper towels – For draining excess oil from the chicken.
How to Make Sesame Chicken
Sesame Chicken is a crispy, sweet, and savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a flavorful sauce, it’s easy to make at home. Here’s how to prepare it:
Step 1: Prep and Batter the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Prepare one bowl with beaten eggs and another with a mix of flour and cornstarch. Dip each chicken piece in the egg wash first, then coat it evenly in the flour mixture. Pat gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat about 3 inches of oil to 350°F in a deep skillet. Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. Cook them for about 4–5 minutes per batch until they turn golden and crispy. Place the cooked chicken on paper towels to drain off excess oil.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. Combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch in a bowl. Heat a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic. Pour in the sauce mixture and simmer until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
Add the crispy chicken into the sauce. Toss well until every piece is coated. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the top for the final touch.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
Here are a few tips I’ve learned from making this recipe again and again:
- Double the Sauce: The sauce is the star of this dish. I like to make extra to drizzle over rice or noodles.
- Keep It Crispy: Fry the chicken in small batches and serve immediately for maximum crunch.
- Toast the Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds bring a deeper nuttiness to the dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: It’s tempting to fry all the chicken at once, but overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and compromises the texture.
How to Serve Sesame Chicken
For a picture-perfect plate, serve your sesame chicken over freshly steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb variation. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for visual appeal. You can also pair it with this teriyaki chicken rice bowl for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the breakdown of this flavor-packed dish per serving:
- Calories: 392
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fat: 14g
How to Store Sesame Chicken
If you have leftovers or want to prepare Sesame Chicken in advance, proper storage is essential to keep the dish fresh and tasty. Here’s how to store and reheat your Sesame Chicken:
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled chicken (without the sauce) in an airtight bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F until warmed through, then toss with reheated sauce.
Check out these dinner recipes for more meal ideas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why this recipe hits the sweet spot.
- Quick Weeknight Dinner: With only 40 minutes needed, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
- Customizable: Perfect for adding vegetables or tweaking to dietary needs.
- Comfort and Flavor: Every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.
- Affordable: A great homemade alternative to restaurant takeout.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can! Coat the chicken as instructed and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes on a parchment-lined tray, flipping halfway.
Is sesame chicken gluten-free?
It can be! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use tamari in place of soy sauce.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge. Warm it slightly before tossing with the chicken.
What can I serve with sesame chicken besides rice?
You can pair it with noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad.
How do I ensure crispy chicken?
Make sure your oil is hot (around 350°F) and fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the right temperature.