Sesame Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, this Sesame Chicken recipe is just what you need! With tender bites of chicken coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, this dish will surely become a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even for a cozy family gathering. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an easy go-to meal!

What makes this Sesame Chicken truly special is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice with a side of steamed broccoli for a wholesome meal or toss in some colorful veggies to make it your own. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Delicious Leftovers: This Sesame Chicken tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients that you can feel good about serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sesame Chicken recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Gather these staples to create a delicious meal that everyone will love!

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce (or pinch red pepper flakes, optional but recommended)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons canola oil (or avocado oil)

To Serve

• Cooked white or brown rice
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Variations

One of the best parts about this Sesame Chicken recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey breast or tofu for a plant-based twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to make it even more nutritious.
• Make it spicy: Increase the heat by adding more sweet chili sauce or some sliced jalapeños.
• Try different grains: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a fun twist on traditional rice.

How to Make Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by preparing the sauce because it’s where all the magic begins! Combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well mixed. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on cooking the chicken.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a wide dish, mix together eggs, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This mixture helps create a lovely coating that holds onto that wonderful sauce later. In another dish, place the flour. Now it’s time to coat each piece of chicken first in the egg mixture and then in flour. This double coating gives you that crispy texture we all crave!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently add your coated chicken pieces using tongs. Cook them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through—around 10 minutes should do it! Be gentle when flipping them so you keep that crispy coating intact.

Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through, move it to one side of the pan and pour your prepared sauce into the other side. Stir until it thickens—this only takes about 1-2 minutes! Then toss those beautiful chicken pieces with the sauce until they are well coated. If you prefer less sauce but want everything sticky and flavorful, let it cook for an extra few minutes on low heat.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Sesame Chicken immediately over warm rice and finish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect garnish. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Sesame Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Sesame Chicken turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality soy sauce make a significant difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste of your dish and bring out the best in your sauce.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – When frying the chicken, make sure not to crowd the skillet. This allows for even cooking and ensures that each piece gets that lovely golden-brown coating.
• Adjust sweetness to taste – Feel free to tweak the amount of honey or brown sugar in your sauce. If you prefer a sweeter profile, add more; if you like it less sweet, reduce it.
• Experiment with flavors – Try adding some grated ginger or chopped scallions to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. It adds freshness and a bit of zing to your meal.
• Let it rest before serving – After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances the texture as it cools slightly.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken

Serving your Sesame Chicken beautifully can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions – Sprinkle these on top for a burst of color and flavor; they add a fresh crunch that complements the savory chicken.
• Sesame seeds – A classic garnish that not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the nutty flavor profile of your dish.
• Sliced cucumbers – Adding a few slices on the side provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli – This vibrant green vegetable is not only nutritious but its slight bitterness pairs well with the sweet sesame sauce.
• Fried rice – A quick stir-fried rice with veggies makes for a hearty side that can soak up any extra sauce from the chicken.
• Asian slaw – A mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and tang, balancing out the richness of the chicken dish.
• Quinoa salad – For something lighter, try a quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, bell peppers, and a light vinaigrette. It’s refreshing and complements the main dish perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Sesame Chicken experience! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sesame Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week without the fuss. It keeps well, making it easy to have a tasty dish ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover Sesame Chicken to cool completely.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the Sesame Chicken cool entirely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consider labeling the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Sesame Chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (about 30 seconds), stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sesame Chicken:

Can I make Sesame Chicken without soy sauce?

Yes! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Both alternatives will provide a similar umami flavor.

How can I make my Sesame Chicken healthier?

To make your Sesame Chicken healthier, you can use less sugar in the sauce, opt for skinless chicken breasts, and serve it with steamed vegetables instead of rice.

Is this Sesame Chicken recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Sesame Chicken is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for future meals.

Can I use other proteins in this Sesame Chicken recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with boneless turkey breast or firm tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Sesame Chicken! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your table. Happy cooking!