sesame seed chicken recipe

The Best sesame seed chicken recipe

I love this sesame seed chicken recipe because it’s one of those dishes that just works every single time. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but still feels special, which is why my kids always ask for it. The crispy, golden coating gives way to tender chicken, and that sweet-savory glaze with sesame seeds ties it all together perfectly. It’s one of those meals that disappears fast at our table, and I don’t mind making it often because it’s simple, reliable, and always satisfying.

What I appreciate most about this recipe is how balanced it is. The chicken provides lean protein, and the sesame seeds add a nice crunch along with healthy fats and a bit of fiber. It’s not overly greasy like takeout versions, and I can control the sweetness by adjusting the sauce to my family’s taste. Plus, it reheats well, so leftovers (if there are any) make a great lunch the next day. Whether it’s a busy school night or a casual weekend meal, this sesame seed chicken fits right in without any fuss.

Crispy Sesame Seed Chicken

4.9 from 500 votes

A delicious and crispy Chinese-American favorite, sesame seed chicken features tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, then sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time25 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sesame Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. 2 Dip chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with the cornstarch-flour mixture. Set aside on a plate.
3. 3 Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken pieces in batches, frying for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. 4 In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. 5 Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
6. 6 Toss the fried chicken in the sesame sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
7. 7 Serve hot with steamed rice or as an appetizer with extra sauce for dipping.

🔧Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Deep skillet or wok
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken by frying once, letting it rest for 5 minutes, then frying again. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

This sesame seed chicken is one of those recipes I always keep in my back pocket because it’s simple, flavorful, and works for just about any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a potluck with friends, or a family gathering, the crispy coating and sweet-savory glaze make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, it’s quick enough to throw together when you’re short on time but still want something that feels special.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Sesame Seed Chicken

1. What type of chicken is best for sesame seed chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for sesame seed chicken because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. However, you can also use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option—just be careful not to overcook it to avoid dryness.

2. Can I make sesame seed chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to a day in advance. Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it gently in a pan or microwave before tossing it with the sauce. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

3. How do I prevent the sesame seeds from burning?

Toast the sesame seeds over low to medium heat in a dry pan, stirring constantly, until they turn golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Avoid high heat, as they can burn quickly. If adding them to the sauce, stir them in at the very end to preserve their crunch.

4. Is sesame seed chicken gluten-free?

Traditional sesame seed chicken is not gluten-free because it’s often coated in flour and uses soy sauce, which contains wheat. To make it gluten-free, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour for coating and substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.

5. Can I bake sesame seed chicken instead of frying it?

Absolutely! For a healthier version, coat the chicken in cornstarch or flour, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Toss the baked chicken in the sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.