Sesame Chicken Recipe

Save

Introduction

Sesame chicken, a dish characterized by its crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, enjoys widespread popularity across the globe. Originating as an adaptation of Chinese-American cuisine, it has become a staple on restaurant menus and a favorite among home cooks. The appeal lies in its satisfying combination of textures and flavors, making it a versatile and approachable dish for diverse palates.

Ingredients

The essential ingredients for a delicious sesame chicken recipe include:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs offer more flavor and remain moister during cooking.
• Marinade: Soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sugar create a flavorful base.
• Breading: All-purpose flour and cornstarch provide a light and crispy coating. Consider using potato starch for extra crispness.
• Sauce: Soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), cornstarch (for thickening), and sesame seeds.
• Oil: Vegetable or canola oil for frying or baking.

Possible substitutions:

• Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free version.
• Agave nectar can replace honey.
• Chicken tenders can be used instead of chicken breasts or thighs.

Preparation Steps

Preparation is key to achieving excellent sesame chicken. First, marinate the chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for a few hours, to infuse them with flavor. This tenderizes the chicken and allows the marinade to penetrate deeply. While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce by whisking all sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Coating the chicken involves dredging the marinated pieces in a mixture of flour and cornstarch. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for optimal crispness. A wire rack placed under the breaded chicken will help prevent the breading from becoming soggy.

Cooking Instructions

Sesame chicken can be cooked using several methods:

• Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350F (175C). Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and drain on a wire rack.
• Baking: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375F (190C). Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking oil. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Once the chicken is cooked, heat the sesame sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately. Regardless of the cooking method, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C) is crucial for food safety.

Serving Suggestions

Sesame chicken is traditionally served over steamed rice or noodles. It pairs well with a variety of sides, such as:

• Steamed broccoli
• Stir-fried vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, snow peas, carrots)
• Egg rolls or spring rolls
• Wonton soup

Garnish with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. For a more complete meal, consider adding a side of fried rice or lo mein. Plating the chicken over a bed of rice, drizzling with extra sauce, and garnishing with green onions creates an appealing presentation.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To elevate the sesame chicken, consider these tips:

• Do not overcrowd the pan when frying, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
• Marinating the chicken for a longer duration (up to 24 hours) enhances the flavor.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

A common mistake is not allowing the oil to reach the correct temperature before frying, which results in greasy chicken. Another error is overcooking the sauce, causing it to become too thick and sticky.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning to prepare a delicious sesame chicken recipe unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. Its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures make it a crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily adapted to individual preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or a centerpiece for a gathering, sesame chicken exemplifies the deliciousness of Asian-inspired cuisine. Take the leap and create this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen. Discover more inspiring recipes and expand your cooking repertoire at foodrecipestory.com.