Sesame Chicken
Crispy, bite-sized chicken pieces tossed in a glossy, sweet, and savory sesame sauce. This Chinese-American takeout classic is incredibly easy to make at home and will be a family favorite.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Chicken and Batter
- b.Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch pieces. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels; this is key for a crispy coating.
- c.In a large bowl, whisk together 8 tbsp cornstarch, the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
- d.Add the lightly beaten egg to the dry ingredients and whisk to form a thick, paste-like batter.
- e.Add the dry chicken pieces to the bowl and use your hands or tongs to toss until every piece is evenly and completely coated.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Fry the Chicken
- b.In a wok or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- c.Working in 2-3 batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- d.Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and transfer it to a wire rack to drain. Draining on a rack keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
- e.Allow the oil to return to 350°F before frying the next batch.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Make the Sesame Sauce
- b.In a separate, clean wok or large skillet, heat the toasted sesame oil over medium heat.
- c.Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- d.Pour in the soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- e.In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tbsp of cornstarch and 2 tbsp of water to create a smooth slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly.
- f.Continue to cook and whisk for 1-2 minutes as the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Serve
- b.Add the crispy fried chicken to the skillet with the thickened sauce.
- c.Gently toss until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated in the glossy sauce.
- d.Immediately transfer to a serving platter. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions.
- e.Serve hot with steamed rice and steamed broccoli for a complete meal.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy chicken, double-fry it. Fry once for 3-4 minutes, rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes, then fry again for 1-2 minutes until deep golden brown.
- 2Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F / 175°C). If it's too cool, the chicken will be greasy; if it's too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- 3Do not overcrowd the pan while frying. This lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy, unevenly cooked chicken. Fry in batches.
- 4Toast your sesame seeds in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes over medium heat until fragrant to significantly enhance their nutty flavor.
- 5The sauce thickens very quickly once the cornstarch slurry is added. Have your fried chicken ready to be tossed immediately.
- 6This dish is best served right away to maintain the chicken's crispiness against the sauce.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the soy sauce for a spicy kick.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the batter. Ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Healthier Baked VersionHealthier Baked Version
Instead of frying, arrange the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Spray with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. Then toss with the sauce.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This recipe works wonderfully with bite-sized pieces of pork, firm tofu (pressed well to remove moisture), or large shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Chicken is a high-quality protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining overall body function.
Contains Beneficial Aromatics
Ginger and garlic are not just for flavor; they contain powerful compounds like gingerol and allicin, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Rich in Selenium
Chicken provides a significant amount of selenium, a vital mineral that acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and supporting thyroid health.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of homemade Sesame Chicken has approximately 550-650 calories. The majority of calories come from the chicken, the oil used for frying, and the honey in the sauce.