Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe

This Easy Sesame Chicken recipe features crispy, tender chicken bites coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sesame sauce. It’s a quick, better-than-takeout dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce
• Quick and easy to make—ready in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• A healthier alternative to takeout
• Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Cornstarch (for coating)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs, beaten
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the sesame sauce:

• Soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• Honey or brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Ketchup
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Water

For garnish:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Green onions, sliced

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in cornstarch and flour, then dip into the beaten eggs to coat.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the sesame sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water.
4. Thicken the sauce: In the same pan, pour the sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little water) and cook until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss until fully coated with the sauce.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
• Healthier Option: Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying, or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice and use a sugar-free sweetener instead of honey.

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly for this recipe.

Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and stir before adding to the chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?

Serve immediately after tossing in the sauce, and avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.

What vegetables pair well with sesame chicken?

Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots make great sides or additions to the dish.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just toss the cooked chicken in the sauce and heat until warmed through.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add more cornstarch slurry if needed.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well due to their high smoke points.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, and combine just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Sesame Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and healthier alternative to takeout that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With crispy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to satisfy. Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

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