Sesame Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both savory and sweet, with a hint of nuttiness, look no further than sesame chicken. This beloved dish, often a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, combines crispy chicken pieces with a delectable sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this sesame chicken recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Additional sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the cornstarch-flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the chicken pieces.
• Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.

2. Making the Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Once the sauce is simmering, add the cornstarch-water mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in the sesame seeds.

3. Combining the Chicken and Sauce:

• Add the fried chicken pieces to the saucepan with the sauce, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
• Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.

4. Serving:

• Transfer the sesame chicken to a serving platter.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and additional sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
• Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Sesame Chicken:

1. Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: While chicken breasts are leaner, thighs offer a juicier and more flavorful result. Choose based on your preference.
2. Crispier Chicken: For extra crispy chicken, double fry the pieces. After the initial frying, let them rest for a few minutes before frying again until golden brown.
3. Balancing Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey and brown sugar in the sauce to suit your taste. For a less sweet version, reduce the quantities slightly.
4. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

Conclusion:

Sesame chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Its rich flavors, combined with the satisfying crunch of the fried chicken, make it an irresistible option for any occasion. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to prepare. Enjoy this sesame chicken with family and friends, and watch it become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

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Feel free to share your variations and tips for making the best sesame chicken in the comments below. Happy cooking!