Introduction
Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Topped with sesame seeds and often served with steamed rice or vegetables, this dish is a favorite among many and is easy to recreate at home. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, sesame chicken can give you a taste of Asian cuisine right in your kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken Breast – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cornstarch – 1/2 cup
Egg – 1, beaten
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Vegetable Oil – for frying
For the Sauce:
Soy Sauce – 1/4 cup
Honey – 1/4 cup
Sesame Oil – 1 tablespoon
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, minced
Garnish:
Sesame Seeds – 2 tablespoons
Green Onions – 2, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt and pepper for flavor.
Coat the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, bread crumbs, and an egg. Dredge the chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken in batches. Fry them until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to create a smooth sauce mixture.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once all the chicken is fried, return it to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Sesame Seeds
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken while it is cooking in the sauce. Stir to combine so that the seeds adhere to the chicken.
Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully coated in sauce, transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame chicken over steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat before serving again.
Adjusting Flavors
Feel free to adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to your taste by adding more honey or soy sauce.
Alternative Proteins
This recipe can also be made using tofu or shrimp as a substitute for chicken for a different protein option.
Cook techniques
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken helps to enhance its flavor and tenderness. A simple mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic can infuse the meat with delicious taste.
Breading and Frying
Breading the chicken in cornstarch before frying gives it a crispy texture. Ensure the oil is hot enough when frying to achieve a golden-brown color.
Preparing the Sauce
Creating the sesame sauce involves combining soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. This mixture should be cooked on medium heat until slightly thickened.
Tossing and Glazing
Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce to coat evenly. This adds flavor and a glossy finish to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame chicken over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with chicken thighs, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce to give it an extra kick of heat.
What can I use as a substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey in the sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Sesame chicken is an exquisite dish that combines the savory flavors of soy sauce and the nutty essence of sesame, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. Its crispy texture and rich sauce make it a favorite among many, fitting perfectly into a variety of meal settings. Whether you serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables, this dish is sure to impress!
More recipes suggestions and combination
General Tso’s Chicken
Try this spicy twist on a classic Chinese dish, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce with a hint of heat.
Honey Garlic Chicken
A sweet and savory option, this dish pairs succulent chicken with a mixture of honey and garlic, delivering a unique sweetness.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Enjoy the balanced flavors of tangy pineapple and vibrant bell peppers alongside crispy chicken in this beloved combination.
Teriyaki Chicken
Marinate chicken in a rich teriyaki sauce for a deliciously sweet and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with rice.
Orange Chicken
Brighten up your meal with crispy chicken pieces coated in a zesty orange sauce, providing a refreshing taste to your table.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Accompany your sesame chicken with a colorful assortment of vegetables stir-fried to perfection for a nutritious addition.
Lo Mein Noodles
Serve sesame chicken over a bed of soft, savory lo mein noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal option.
Steamed Dumplings
Pair with these delicious, bite-sized dumplings filled with meats or veggies for a delightful appetizer or side dish.