Easy Sesame Chicken

This Easy Sesame Chicken recipe brings the flavors of your favorite takeout dish right to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this quick and crispy meal is sure to impress. The tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy sesame sauce make for a delightful main course that pairs beautifully with rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 27 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious meal when time is tight.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve this sesame chicken over rice, alongside vegetables, or even in a wrap for a fun twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or gathering with friends, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making this beloved takeout classic right at home with fresh ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is crucial.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken and sautéing ingredients quickly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the batter and sauce without making a mess.
• Pot for frying: A deep pot helps maintain oil temperature for perfectly crispy chicken.
• Wire rack or paper towels: Useful for draining excess oil from fried chicken, ensuring it stays crispy.

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 well combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In another mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, egg whites, and cold seltzer water. Mix just until combined; avoid over-mixing. Add the chicken pieces to the batter and coat them evenly.

Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying

Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken fries up golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Fry the battered chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy. After frying, transfer them to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour in the prepared sauce over the sautéed aromatics. Quickly add the fried chicken pieces and toss everything together until well coated.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately while hot! Garnish with extra sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Sesame Chicken as part of a delightful meal any day of the week!

How to Serve Easy Sesame Chicken

Easy Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of sesame chicken.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and complements the dish well.

As a Stir-Fry Bowl

• Mixed Veggies: Add stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a colorful and nutritious bowl.
• Noodles: Toss with cooked noodles like lo mein or udon for an extra filling meal.

Garnished with Extras

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle additional toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Green Onions: Chop fresh green onions to add brightness and freshness to your dish.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Serve alongside sweet chili sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Soy Sauce: A classic pairing that enhances the umami flavors of the chicken.

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How to Perfect Easy Sesame Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Easy Sesame Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Seltzer Water: This creates a lighter tempura batter that fries up crispier.
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pot; frying in batches ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Toss Quickly: After adding the chicken to the sauce, toss quickly to maintain the crispy texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar in the sauce according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Sesame Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Easy Sesame Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Broccoli: Lightly sauté broccoli in garlic for a simple and healthy side.
2. Egg Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice with eggs complements the sesame chicken perfectly.
3. Crispy Spring Rolls: These add an extra crunch and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting side that balances the meal.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Serve tangy pickled cucumbers or radishes for a refreshing contrast.
6. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing adds freshness and texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Sesame Chicken can be a breeze, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results.

• Skipping the prep: Failing to prepare your ingredients beforehand can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Make sure everything is chopped and measured before you start cooking.
• Not maintaining oil temperature: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to ensure it stays at 350°F (175°C).
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature. Cook in small batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick or thin, it can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Adjust with water or cornstarch for the right balance.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds or green onions can detract from the visual appeal of your dish. Always add a finishing touch for presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Sesame Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for maximum flavor.

Reheating Easy Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about making Easy Sesame Chicken.

Can I make Easy Sesame Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free flour for the batter.

How do I adjust the spice level in Easy Sesame Chicken?

To increase spice, add more crushed red pepper or include fresh chilis in the sauce. For milder flavor, reduce or omit them altogether.

What sides pair well with Easy Sesame Chicken?

Serve with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Easy Sesame Chicken is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or tweaking the sauce ingredients. Enjoy this delightful dish that brings takeout flavors right into your kitchen!