Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe

This easy sesame chicken recipe promises a dish that’s even better than takeout! With crispy chicken enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce, it’s a delightful meal you can prepare in just 30 minutes. Here’s how to bring one of the most popular Chinese takeout dishes into your own kitchen.

Sesame Chicken Recipe Quick To Make

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Water
• A small amount of baking soda
• Kosher salt (or fine salt, use less if so)
• 1 Egg
• Cornstarch (can substitute with potato starch for allergies)
• A small amount of oil

For the Sesame Chicken Sauce:

• Ketchup
• Water
• Sugar (adjust to taste)
• White vinegar (adjust if you prefer less tanginess)
• Soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• Dark soy sauce (optional for color)
• Cornstarch for thickening
• Green onion (whites for the sauce, greens for garnish)
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, mix chicken thighs with water, baking soda, and salt until the water is mostly absorbed.
2. Add the egg, ensuring it’s well combined with the chicken. Follow with cornstarch until evenly mixed, and no dry spots remain. Incorporate a small amount of oil last.
3. Pro Tip: Marinate overnight or for a few hours for better flavor and moisture.
4. Heat 2-3 inches of oil in a wok or tall pan to maintain at around 375°F (190°C).
5. Carefully add chicken pieces to hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry in batches for about 4-5 minutes. Remove and let drain for 2-3 minutes.
6. Re-fry the chicken at 375°F for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels or a rack.

Making the Sauce:

1. Mix ketchup, water, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce thoroughly.
2. In a wok or large pan over medium heat, fry the white parts of green onions in a bit of oil until fragrant.
3. Stir the sauce mixture again and pour into the wok. Increase to medium-high heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and gains a glossy appearance.
4. Add the fried chicken pieces, tossing until they’re well coated with the sauce.

To Serve:

• Immediately serve the sesame chicken with white or fried rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Recipe Tips:

• Ensure chicken pieces are of similar size for even cooking.
• Maintain oil temperature for proper frying.
• Serve fresh for best taste, though leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Gluten-Free Modification:

Replace soy and dark soy sauce with a generous pinch of salt to make this recipe gluten-free.

Enjoy your delicious homemade sesame chicken!