What To Know
- Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is evenly distributed.
- For an even more authentic flavor, make your own sesame chicken sauce from scratch using a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and spices.
- Sesame chicken is a protein-packed dish that is a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Sesame chicken, a beloved Chinese-American dish, tantalizes taste buds with its crispy, flavorful exterior and tender, juicy interior. While it may seem intimidating to make from scratch, it’s surprisingly straightforward with the right ingredients and techniques. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, empowering you to create this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 pound)
- Cornstarch (1 cup)
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
- Rice wine vinegar (2 tablespoons)
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon)
- Ginger, minced (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
- Honey (1/4 cup)
- Chicken broth (1/4 cup)
- Sesame seeds (1/4 cup)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a bowl with 1/2 cup of cornstarch.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, chicken broth, and remaining 1/2 cup of cornstarch. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Coat and Fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat it in the remaining cornstarch. Fry the chicken in batches until it’s golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Once all the chicken is fried, add it to the sauce in the saucepan. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the sesame chicken. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice or noodles.
Variations:
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha to the marinade.
- Sweet and Sour Sesame Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of pineapple juice and 1/4 cup of ketchup to the sauce.
- General Tso’s Sesame Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce and 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce to the sauce.
Tips for Perfection:
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the sauce, or it will become thick and gooey.
- Serve the sesame chicken immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Beyond the Basics:
- Homemade Sesame Chicken Sauce: For an even more authentic flavor, make your own sesame chicken sauce from scratch using a combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and spices.
- Crispy Sesame Chicken: To achieve extra crispy sesame chicken, double-coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying.
- Air Fryer Sesame Chicken: Make sesame chicken in an air fryer for a healthier and less oily version.
Beyond the Kitchen:
- Sesame Chicken Nutrition: Sesame chicken is a protein-packed dish that is a good source of vitamins and minerals. However, it is also high in calories and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.
- Sesame Chicken History: Sesame chicken is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1950s. It has since become a popular dish in Chinese restaurants worldwide.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts. They will result in a juicier, more flavorful dish.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. However, 30 minutes is sufficient to achieve good flavor.
Q: What sides go well with sesame chicken?
A: Steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and egg rolls are all great options to serve with sesame chicken.
Q: Can I make sesame chicken in advance?
A: Yes, you can make sesame chicken in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. However, the chicken will not be as crispy as when it is freshly made.
Q: How do I store leftover sesame chicken?
A: Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
