There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of homemade sesame chicken wafting through the kitchen, reminding me of my favorite takeout nights. Picture this: crispy, tender chicken coated with a glossy, sweet-savory sauce that clings to each bite. My version of Easy Sesame Chicken takes all that deliciousness and brings it right to your dinner table in just 35 minutes, without the hassle of ordering in.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste, making it perfect for everyone around the dinner table. Plus, it’s a wholesome alternative to fast food, allowing you to relish in that takeout-style goodness without leaving the comfort of your home. So, whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into making your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Why is Savory Easy Sesame Chicken a must-try?
Easy to Make: This Savory Easy Sesame Chicken brings takeout flavors right to your kitchen with minimal effort.
Quick Cooking Time: Satisfy your cravings in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Customization: Adjust the sweetness and spice to suit everyone’s preferences, making it family-friendly.
Wholesome & Delicious: Ditch the fast food and indulge in a homemade version that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Crowd-Pleasing Option: Impress your guests with this dish when entertaining; it’s sure to be a hit!
For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with steamed veggies or Savory Sheet Pan options for a complete dinner experience!
Savory Easy Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, perfect for this savory easy sesame chicken; substitute with chicken breast if desired, adjusting cooking time to prevent dryness.
• Egg – Binds the coating to the chicken; for a vegan option, omit and use plant-based protein.
For the Coating
• Cornstarch – Creates that coveted crispy coating; arrowroot powder can be used for a gluten-free alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Works in tandem with cornstarch for added crunch; gluten-free flour blend can replace it.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Brings umami flavor and saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; feel free to swap in white sugar if needed.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances aromatic flavor; garlic powder can be a quick substitute in a pinch.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and spice; use ground ginger for convenience, but adjust quantity to taste.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity and balance to the dish; apple cider vinegar can serve as an alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Crucial for that authentic nutty flavor; no substitutes recommended for unmatched taste.
For Garnish
• Sesame Seeds – Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal; can be omitted if preferred.
• Green Onions – Provides freshness and color; optional but highly recommended for the best flavor experience.
This Savory Easy Sesame Chicken is not just about the taste—it’s a delightful journey of flavors that you can enjoy any night of the week!
How to Make Savory Easy Sesame Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and gently mix them with the beaten egg in a bowl, ensuring every piece is coated for the ideal texture.
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Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and flour. Toss the chicken pieces until they are well coated, creating a crispy outer layer.
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Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in small batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined cooling rack to maintain crispiness.
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Make the Sauce: In a clean pan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Simmer on medium heat until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Combine Chicken with Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing quickly to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Let it simmer for an additional minute to absorb those delicious flavors.
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Serve: Transfer the hot sesame chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a delightful dinner.
Optional: For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory Easy Sesame Chicken?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that enhance the flavors of this homemade classic.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, fragrant base for the chicken, soaking up the sweet-savory sauce perfectly.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp, colorful veggies add a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the sesame chicken. Consider sautéing bell peppers and broccoli in sesame oil for harmony in flavors.
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Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles complement the chicken’s texture beautifully, creating a comforting dish for your taste buds. Toss them in a little soy sauce and sesame oil to tie everything together.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A refreshing, crunchy salad with a zingy dressing brings a vibrant contrast to the chicken. Use cabbage, carrots, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to connect with the dish’s essence.
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Spring Rolls: A delightful starter filled with fresh veggies and served with a dipping sauce can kickstart your meal with a fun, interactive touch.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: This light and tangy side dish offers a cooling effect against the warm, rich flavors of the chicken. Thinly slice cucumbers and toss them with rice vinegar and a hint of sugar for a refreshing bite.
How to Store and Freeze Savory Easy Sesame Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Savory Easy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick reheating.
Freezer: If you want to make it ahead, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispness, reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken chewy.
Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Savory Easy Sesame Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful adjustments to make this dish your own!
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a kick that warms your palate. It’s a great way to turn up the heat and keep things exciting!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for crispy tofu or tempeh. This hearty substitute soaks up the sauce beautifully, delivering a satisfying meat-free meal.
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Gluten-Free Options: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and arrowroot powder for the coating. Enjoy the same great taste while accommodating dietary preferences!
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Citrusy Flavor: Add a splash of fresh orange juice to the sauce for a zesty twist. The bright citrus notes will elevate the sweetness and bring a fresh pop.
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Nutty Variation: Incorporate chopped peanuts or cashews on top for extra crunch and nutty flavor. They create a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
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Vinegar Swap: Experiment with different vinegars; try rice wine vinegar or white wine vinegar for a subtle flavor change, allowing you to personalize the sauce further.
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Herbal Touch: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro or basil before serving. These herbs add freshness and a beautiful aroma that complements the dish splendidly.
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Sweet Adjustments: If you love it sweeter, increase the brown sugar or add a drizzle of honey for a caramelized flavor that balances the heat perfectly.
Enjoy customizing your Savory Easy Sesame Chicken and let your culinary creativity flourish!
Expert Tips for Savory Easy Sesame Chicken
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Batch Frying: Fry chicken in small batches to ensure each piece gets crispy. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy chicken.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. Dried or powdered versions work, but they won’t deliver the same aromatic punch.
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Reheating: To keep leftovers crispy, reheat in an air fryer or oven rather than the microwave; the microwave can make the chicken chewy.
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Optimal Coating: Ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated in the cornstarch and flour mixture to achieve that desirable crispy texture in your Savory Easy Sesame Chicken.
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Taste Testing: Adjust the balance of sweetness and heat in the sauce according to your family’s preferences; it’s all about personalization!
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Easy Sesame Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken and coat it in cornstarch and flour up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors absorb while keeping the coating crisp. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just remember to warm it up before adding in the fried chicken. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the chicken until golden, then toss it in the prepped sauce for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as fresh. This way, you’ll save valuable time on busy weeknights!
Savory Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using chicken thighs because they offer juicy, tender bites that don’t dry out quickly during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use chicken breast, but be careful to monitor the cooking time; aim for about 4-6 minutes of frying to ensure they remain moist.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Place any leftover Savory Easy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it to bring back its crispiness.
Can I freeze the sesame chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, first lay the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent it from clumping together. After about 2 hours, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my chicken doesn’t get crispy when frying?
Don’t worry—this can happen! Ensure you coat the chicken thoroughly in the cornstarch and flour mixture, as this is key to achieving that crispy texture. Also, make sure you’re frying in small batches and that your oil is hot enough, around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, it can lead to soggy chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free flour or a flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. If you’re vegan, you can omit the egg and replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is properly cooked.
How do I adjust the sweetness or spice in the sauce?
The more the merrier when it comes to taste! To customize the sweetness, add more brown sugar if you like it sweeter or reduce the amount for a less sweet version. For a spicy kick, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while simmering the sauce, testing the heat level incrementally to suit your family’s preference.
Savory Easy Sesame Chicken That Beats Takeout Every Time
Equipment
- wok
- deep pan
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken thighs substitute with chicken breast if desired
- 1 large egg omit for vegan option
For the Coating
- 1/2 cup cornstarch arrowroot powder can be used for gluten-free
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour gluten-free flour blend can be used
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar white sugar can be swapped
- 3 cloves garlic minced or garlic powder substitute
- 1 teaspoon ginger adjust quantity if using ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar apple cider vinegar can substitute
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil no substitutes recommended
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds can be omitted if preferred
- 2 stalks green onions optional but recommended
Instructions
How to Make Savory Easy Sesame Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and gently mix them with the beaten egg in a bowl, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Coat the Chicken: In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and flour. Toss the chicken pieces until they are well coated.
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in small batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined cooling rack.
- Make the Sauce: In a clean pan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Simmer on medium heat until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing quickly to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Let it simmer for an additional minute.
- Serve: Transfer the hot sesame chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
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