Sesame Chicken

A Crispy, Sweet, and Savory Classic

Sesame Chicken is one of those takeout favorites that always hits the spot. Crispy, golden chicken coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sesame sauce—it’s the perfect balance of crunch and flavor. The best part? You can make it at home in under 30 minutes, and it tastes even better than your favorite restaurant version!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Crispy yet light – Perfectly coated and pan-fried (or baked) for a satisfying crunch.
• Better than takeout – Fresh, flavorful, and free of unnecessary additives.
• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes for a weeknight-friendly meal.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
• Cornstarch & Flour – Creates a crispy coating when fried.
• Eggs – Helps the coating stick to the chicken.
• Garlic & Ginger – Essential for deep, aromatic flavor.
• Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and umami to the sauce.
• Honey & Brown Sugar – Gives the sauce its signature sweetness.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances out the flavors with a touch of acidity.
• Sesame Oil & Sesame Seeds – For that classic nutty sesame flavor.
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and a mild sharpness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes.
• In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs.
• Dredge the chicken in the egg, then in the flour mixture, coating evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
• Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
• Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Sesame Sauce

• In a saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
• Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
• Stir in soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and rice vinegar.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the sauce to thicken.

4. Toss the Chicken

• Add the crispy chicken to the pan with the sauce.
• Toss to coat evenly.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
• Serve immediately over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables.

Expert Tips for the Best Sesame Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness – They stay more tender than chicken breasts.
• Double-fry for extra crispiness – Fry the chicken once, let it rest, then fry again for ultimate crunch.
• Don’t skip the sesame oil – It adds a deep, nutty flavor that makes the dish authentic.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles.
• Serve with broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
• Add a side of spring rolls or egg drop soup for a full takeout-style dinner at home.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

• Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can fry the chicken ahead and store it separately from the sauce. Reheat and toss in the sauce just before serving.

Can I make this dish healthier?

Bake or air-fry the chicken instead of frying it. You can also reduce the sugar in the sauce for a lighter version.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

Use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

This Sesame Chicken is crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make at home. Skip the takeout and try this homemade version—you’ll never look back! Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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