Sesame Chicken
A quick and comforting sesame chicken recipe that brings families together with its nutty flavor and crispy texture.
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Tender, juicy chicken is the star of this dish.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch This will give your chicken that irresistible crispy coating.
Cooking Oils and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil The key ingredient that adds nutty flavor and aroma.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For frying the chicken until golden brown.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for depth and a lovely aroma.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated Adds warmth and spice to the dish.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/3 cup soy sauce A salty, umami bomb that flavors the sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons honey For that perfect balance of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Adds acidity and balances the sauce.
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds For garnish and a delightful crunch.
- 1 green onion sliced (optional) Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until they’re well coated.
Cooking
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the pieces and continue frying until golden and crispy, about another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar, stirring well, and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the crispy chicken back into the pan and toss well to coat.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish.
Notes
For a healthier version, use skinless chicken thighs or swap honey for a natural sweetener like maple syrup. Incorporate seasonal veggies for extra nutrition. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.