Homemade Sesame Chicken: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Try Today

Homemade Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. As someone who has always been captivated by the rich history of Chinese-American dishes, I find that this recipe not only satisfies my taste buds but also evokes a sense of nostalgia. The combination of tender chicken, a sweet and savory sauce, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.

People love Homemade Sesame Chicken for its perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, along with its convenience for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Whether served over rice or alongside steamed vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Join me as we explore the steps to create this mouthwatering Homemade Sesame Chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. I like to make them about 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl. 2. In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will create a crispy coating for the chicken. 3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well combined. This will be used to help the flour mixture adhere to the chicken. 4. Pour the egg mixture over the chicken pieces and toss until they are well coated. Then, gradually add the flour mixture to the chicken, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated. I find it helpful to use my hands for this step to ensure every piece is well covered.

Frying the Chicken

5. In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the chicken batter into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re ready to go. 6. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. I usually use a slotted spoon to turn the chicken pieces for even cooking. 7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat this process until all the chicken is fried.

Making the Sauce

8. In a medium saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. 9. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. You want it to be syrupy but not too thick. 10. Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

11. In a large mixing bowl, add the fried chicken pieces. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. I like to use tongs for this step to ensure the chicken stays crispy while getting coated in the sauce. 12. If you want to add a little extra crunch, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the chicken and toss again to combine.

Serving the Dish

13. Transfer the sesame chicken to a serving platter. I like to garnish it with sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. 14. Serve the sesame chicken hot, alongside steamed rice or fried rice, and enjoy! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for impressing guests at a gathering.

Tips for Success

– Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; otherwise, it will absorb too much oil and become greasy. – If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick. – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. Now that you have all the steps laid out, I hope you enjoy making this delicious homemade sesame chicken as much as I do! It’s a fantastic dish that’s sure to please everyone

Conclusion:

In summary, this Homemade Sesame Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, a savory sesame sauce, and the perfect crunch from sesame seeds creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to takeout, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish right from the comfort of your own kitchen. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing your sesame chicken with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up that delectable sauce. You can also toss in some stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for an extra boost of color and nutrition. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick or swapping out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a delightful variation. I truly encourage you to give this Homemade Sesame Chicken a try. I promise it will quickly become a favorite in your household! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s spread the love for this fantastic recipe together. Happy cooking! Print