sesame chicken recipe easy
The Best sesame chicken recipe easy
I love this easy sesame chicken recipe because it’s one of those meals that checks all the boxes—quick to make, packed with flavor, and always a hit with my family. My kids ask for it at least once a week, and honestly, I don’t mind making it because it’s so simple. The sweet and savory sauce coats the crispy chicken perfectly, and the sesame seeds add just the right amount of crunch. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for a casual Friday night dinner but easy enough for a busy weeknight when I don’t have time to fuss over complicated steps.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how balanced it is. The chicken is lean protein, and when I pair it with steamed broccoli or a side of brown rice, it becomes a well-rounded meal. The sauce has just enough sweetness to satisfy my kids’ tastes without being overly sugary, and I can adjust the heat level if I want a little kick. Plus, it reheats well, so leftovers are never a problem. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s reliable, delicious, and always makes everyone at the table happy.
Easy Sesame Chicken
A quick and flavorful sesame chicken recipe with a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is crispy, tender, and packed with delicious Asian-inspired flavors.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Dip chicken pieces into beaten eggs, then coat evenly with the cornstarch mixture.
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2 Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
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3 In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
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4 Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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5 Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
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6 Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep skillet or wok
- Tongs
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Sesame Chicken Works
This easy sesame chicken recipe is a no-brainer for any occasion because it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, the crispy, sweet, and tangy taste keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s simple enough that even picky eaters will love it, making it a reliable go-to when you need a meal that works every time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Chicken
1. What ingredients do I need for easy sesame chicken?
You’ll need boneless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces), soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, eggs, vegetable oil (for frying), sesame seeds, and green onions for garnish. Optional additions include red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of hoisin sauce for extra depth.
2. Can I make sesame chicken without deep-frying?
Yes! For a lighter version, coat the chicken in cornstarch and pan-fry it in a small amount of oil until crispy. Alternatively, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden. The sauce will still caramelize nicely when tossed with the cooked chicken.
3. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?
To keep the chicken crispy, fry or bake it until fully cooked and golden before tossing it in the sauce. If making ahead, store the chicken and sauce separately and combine just before serving. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
4. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Absolutely! Substitute honey with brown sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar in equal amounts. For a sugar-free option, use a sugar-free syrup or a small amount of erythritol. Adjust to taste, as some sweeteners may alter the flavor slightly.
5. How long does sesame chicken last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best texture, avoid reheating the chicken in the sauce—add fresh sauce when serving. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become mushy.
