Name: Crispy Sesame Chicken: Easy Recipe with Sticky Asian Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 5 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 eggs lightly beaten; 3 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch); 10 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; ½ tsp garlic salt; 2 tsp paprika; 3 chicken breast fillets chopped into bite-size chunks; 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional); 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced); 1 tbsp Chinese rice vinegar (white wine vinegar will work too); 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (use more or less depending on the brand and how spicy you like it); 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 4 tbsp soy sauce; boiled rice; 2 tbsp sesame seeds; small bunch spring onions/scallions (chopped)

Introduction to Crispy Sesame Chicken

When it comes to Crispy Sesame Chicken, making it at home is an experience like no other. Why settle for carryout or frozen options when you can whip up a crispy, golden dish that’s bursting with flavor right in your own kitchen? Not only is homemade chicken healthier—allowing you to control the ingredients—but it’s also incredibly satisfying to create a meal that rivals your favorite takeout spot.

Why Homemade Crispy Sesame Chicken is Worth It

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rich, sticky Asian sauce that pulls all the elements together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can experience the crunchiness of perfectly fried chicken coated in a sauce that’s savory, sweet, and downright addictive.

Plus, by using fresh chicken breast fillets and selecting your sauces, you can cater this dish to your taste buds. Want it a bit spicier? Add some extra chili sauce! Prefer a smokier flavor? Drizzle in more sesame oil. The options are endless, making it easy to experiment and find your perfect balance. Not to mention, general cooking techniques like frying and saucing allow you to enhance your culinary skills while impressing anyone who joins you for dinner. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Crispy Sesame Chicken!

Ingredients for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Essential ingredients for crispy chicken

To achieve that mouthwatering crunch, you'll need a few key players for your crispy sesame chicken. Start with:

Vegetable oil (5 tbsp) - This will be your main cooking oil; a neutral flavor is best.
Eggs (2, lightly beaten) - The binding agent that helps the coating stick.
Cornflour (cornstarch) (3 tbsp) - For an extra layer of crispiness.
Plain (all-purpose) flour (10 tbsp) - Creates the main coating for your chicken.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic salt (½ teaspoon each) and paprika (2 tsp) for that flavor boost.
Chicken breast fillets (3, cut into bite-size chunks) - The star of the dish!

Components of the sticky Asian sauce

Now, onto the delicious sticky Asian sauce that brings everything together. These ingredients are essential:

Garlic (2 cloves, minced) - Adds depth of flavor.
Soy sauce (4 tbsp) - The salty backbone of your sauce.
Honey (2 tbsp) and brown sugar (2 tbsp) - For that irresistible sweetness.
Chinese rice vinegar (1 tbsp) - A tangy contrast that brightens up the sauce. If you can’t find it, white vinegar works too!
Sweet chili sauce (2 tbsp) - A touch of heat to balance the flavors.
Ketchup (3 tbsp) - Yes, it sounds unusual, but it brings a rich sweetness.

With these ingredients on hand, you're just a few steps away from a culinary masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion! If you’re curious about different types of soy sauce, you can explore this guide on Dark Soy Sauce.

Preparing Crispy Sesame Chicken

Creating crispy sesame chicken at home is simpler than you might think! Let me guide you through each step of this delicious dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, it's essential to have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the chicken:
5 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch)
10 tablespoon plain (all-purpose) flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon garlic salt
2 teaspoon paprika
3 chicken breast fillets, chopped into bite-size chunks
For the sticky Asian sauce:
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 tablespoon Chinese rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
2 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
3 tablespoon ketchup
2 tablespoon brown sugar
4 tablespoon soy sauce
To serve:
Boiled rice
2 tablespoon sesame seeds
Chopped spring onions/scallions

Prepare the Chicken for Frying

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it's time for the chicken. In three shallow bowls, set up a dredging station. One bowl should have your beaten eggs, the second with just cornflour, and the third with a blend of plain flour, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika—this seasoning is crucial for that extra flavor.

Start by taking each piece of chicken, dredging it in the cornflour, then dipping it in the egg wash. Finally, coat it in the seasoned flour mixture. This three-step process ensures your chicken has that perfect crispy layer.

Fry the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the chicken in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps to maintain that crispy texture. Fry them for about 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Make the Sticky Asian Sauce

With the chicken frying away, you can now whip up the sticky sauce! Add all the sauce ingredients—sesame oil, garlic, rice vinegar, honey, sweet chili sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce—into the hot wok. Stir and let it bubble over high heat until it reduces by a third, approximately 2-3 minutes. This will create that beautifully thick, glossy glaze that makes our crispy sesame chicken so irresistible.

Combine Chicken with Sauce and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened, add the crispy chicken back into the wok, tossing everything together to ensure each piece is generously coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for that final touch.

To serve, dish out your crispy sesame chicken over a bed of fluffy boiled rice, and don’t forget to sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for that final pop of flavor and texture. Enjoy your homemade creation and impress your friends or family with your culinary skills!

Variations on Crispy Sesame Chicken

Spicy Sesame Chicken

For those who crave a kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to your marinade for a spicy sesame chicken twist. This easy adjustment will elevate the flavor profile, giving you a delightful heat that complements the sweetness of the sauce. You can start with one teaspoon of sriracha and adjust based on your taste. If you’re hosting friends or just love a good challenge, spicy is the way to go!

Sesame Chicken with Vegetables

Want to bulk up your meal? Toss in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking to achieve a crispy sesame chicken with vegetables. Not only will this add nutrition, but it also enhances the dish's appearance, making it a feast for the eyes. Adding veggies is a fantastic way to enjoy a complete meal in one bowl while maximizing flavors and textures.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your mood and taste buds!

Cooking Tips for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Ensuring Perfect Crispiness

Achieving that perfectly crispy coating on your sesame chicken is all about technique. Start by dredging your chicken in cornflour before dipping it in an egg wash and finally coating it in the seasoned flour mix. This three-step process creates layers that fry up beautifully. Make sure your oil is hot enough—if it’s not, the chicken will absorb the oil rather than fry! Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches around 350°F (175°C) for optimal results.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy crispy sesame chicken without frying, consider baking or air-frying! For baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated chicken on a lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil for extra crunch. An air fryer is another fantastic option. Cook at a temperature of 375°F (190°C) for around 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Both methods yield that sought-after crispiness with less oil.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Ideal sides to complement your dish

To elevate your Crispy Sesame Chicken, consider pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or vegetable fried rice for a hearty base. A side of stir-fried bok choy or broccoli drizzled with a touch of soy sauce adds a nutritious crunch. For those craving something lighter, a cucumber salad dressed with sesame oil brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Presentation tips for a great meal

Presentation can turn an everyday dinner into a culinary delight. Serve your Crispy Sesame Chicken in a large, shallow dish to showcase its golden-brown color. Scatter sesame seeds and chopped spring onions over the top for a burst of color. Use a nice serving platter or individual bowls for a more intimate feel. For an added touch, place thin lime wedges alongside your dish; they add a pop of brightness and can be squeezed over the chicken at serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also encourages guests to customize their flavors!

Time breakdown for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Preparation time

Getting ready for your Crispy Sesame Chicken adventure will take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken, whisking the eggs, and mixing your flours and seasonings.

Cooking time

Once you start cooking, the magic happens in just 15–20 minutes. You’ll be frying the chicken until golden brown and preparing the delicious sticky sauce.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at around 30–35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering!

If you want more tips on perfecting your sesame chicken, check out this guide on how to create flavorful Asian sauces here.

Nutritional Facts of Crispy Sesame Chicken

When diving into the delicious world of Crispy Sesame Chicken, it's good to know what you're savoring. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional profile:

Calories

A serving of this mouthwatering dish contains approximately 400-450 calories, making it a fulfilling meal without excessive guilt.

Protein

Packed with protein, this dish delivers about 30 grams per serving, thanks to the chicken breast, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

Sodium

With an estimated sodium content of around 800-1000 mg, it's advisable to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you're watching your salt intake. For more detailed nutrition information, check out the USDA's FoodData Central, a great resource for healthy eating choices.

Indulging in Crispy Sesame Chicken can be a delectable experience, especially when balanced with some steamed rice and fresh vegetables on the side! Happy cooking!

FAQs about Crispy Sesame Chicken

What's the secret to crispy chicken?

Achieving that perfect crunch in crispy sesame chicken primarily comes down to the double dredging process. Coating your chicken first with cornflour, then dipping it in an egg wash, and finally covering it with seasoned flour creates a barrier that locks in moisture while ensuring a deliciously crispy exterior. Additionally, frying in hot oil is crucial; it keeps the chicken from soaking up oil and becoming soggy. For an extra layer of crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular flour.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily swap it for other proteins. Firm tofu or tempeh can be used for a vegetarian version, while shrimp or beef can add a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly, while beef may need a bit longer.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any crispy sesame chicken left, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain that delightful crispiness, reheat it in the oven instead of the microwave, which can make it soggy. Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For more tips on storing leftovers, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Crispy Sesame Chicken

In conclusion, crispy sesame chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances texture and flavor. This recipe not only brings out the crunchiness you crave but also delivers a rich, sticky Asian sauce that’s simply irresistible. Serve it over rice, and your meal is complete. Enjoy!