Sesame Chicken

Every time I think of the delicious Sesame Chicken, I can’t help but smile. This dish takes me back to family dinners where the aroma of the sweet and savory sauce would waft through the house, drawing everyone to the table. I have fond memories of my mom cooking this classic recipe, her hands skillfully tossing the tender chunks of chicken in the irresistible sauce. Whenever I serve Sesame Chicken to my friends, their eyes light up with anticipation, and the first bite always brings a chorus of satisfied “mmm” sounds. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the warmth and joy shared among loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Sesame Chicken never fails to impress.

Main Ingredients for Sesame Chicken

The ingredients in Sesame Chicken play a pivotal role in creating the rich flavors and textures that make this dish so memorable. Each component complements the others, resulting in a delightful culinary experience that transports you to your favorite takeout spot.

• Toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty richness that serves as the base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Imparts a savory aroma, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish.
• Fresh ginger: Provides a zesty kick, brightening the overall taste.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful without being overly salty.
• Honey: Introduces a sweet note that balances the savory elements perfectly.
• Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, it adds depth and umami to the dish.
• Rice vinegar: Offers a slight tang, cutting through the sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Used for thickening the sauce and creating a lovely glaze on the chicken.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing lean protein.
• Egg whites: Help create a crispy coating for the chicken.
• Extra-light olive oil: Ideal for frying the chicken to perfection.
• White sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a nutty flavor and a visual appeal.
• Green onions: Freshness and color are added with this final touch.

Sesame Chicken Instructions

Making Sesame Chicken is an enjoyable experience, as you’ll be combining fresh ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results.

1. Start by preparing the sauce. In a small saucepan, heat toasted sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add finely minced garlic and fresh ginger. Sauté for about thirty seconds until fragrant. Stir in 1/4 cup of the low-sodium chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring.

2. In a liquid measuring cup, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until fully combined. Once the sauce reaches a boil, pour this cornstarch mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly. Allow it to boil for one minute to thicken before removing from heat. Set aside.

3. Next, move to the chicken. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, egg whites, salt, and pepper until well blended and slightly frothy. Add in the boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces. Toss to evenly coat all the chicken with the mixture.

4. Heat 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of extra-light olive oil in a ten-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add half of the chicken pieces, spacing them evenly apart. Cook for about seven minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. If necessary, reduce the heat to medium.

5. Once the first batch of chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of oil and the rest of the chicken. Ensure you cook them until golden brown as well.

6. After cooking the chicken, return all chicken pieces back into the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.

7. Finally, sprinkle with white sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve your Sesame Chicken warm over a bed of white or brown rice for a hearty meal.

How to Switch It Up

There are countless ways to add your personal touch to Sesame Chicken. Think outside the box with these creative suggestions!

• Add vegetables: Toss in some fresh bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli while cooking the chicken for a colorful, nutritious boost.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Swap proteins: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different take on this dish.
• Serve with noodles: Instead of rice, serve your Sesame Chicken over stir-fried noodles for a delightful variation.
• Make it a salad: Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with the sesame sauce for a refreshing meal.
• Experiment with nuts: Adding crushed peanuts or cashews can provide an interesting crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Enjoy Sesame Chicken

• Serve hot: Enjoy Sesame Chicken hot off the stove for the best flavor and texture.
• Pair with rice: A classic pairing is serving over fluffy white or brown rice, which perfectly complements the sauce.
• Include side dishes: Consider serving alongside steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
• Ideal for gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers. Your guests will rave about it!
• Storing leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheat with care: When reheating, be sure to do so gently in a pan to maintain the chicken’s texture and prevent overcooking.

FAQ

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, bringing joy to every meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. I encourage you to try making this dish at home; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Sesame Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Sesame Chicken is an easy weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor. This delicious dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for satisfying those cravings. Treat yourself to a delightful homemade meal tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Blender
• Large Pot
• Food Processor

Ingredients

  

• 2.5 tsp Toasted sesame oil
• 1 Tbsp Finely minced garlic
• 1 Tbsp Finely minced, peeled fresh ginger
• 0.5 cup Low-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 1/3 cup Honey
• 2.5 Tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 tsp Rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Cornstarch
• 1.5 lbs Boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup Cornstarch
• 2 large Egg whites
• 1/4 tsp Peach salt and white or black pepper
• 3 Tbsp Extra-light olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 Tbsp White sesame seeds
• 3 Green onions, sliced

Instructions

 

• For the sauce: Heat sesame oil over medium heat in a small saucepan. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp of the chicken broth, the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a boil. Meanwhile, in a liquid measuring cup, whisk together remaining 2 Tbsp chicken broth with 1 Tbsp cornstarch until well combined. Pour into the simmering sauce mixture and allow to boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and set aside.
• For the chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, egg whites, salt, and pepper until well blended and slightly frothy. Add in chicken and toss to evenly coat. Heat 1 1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil in a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the chicken (work to space evenly apart and tilt pan slightly as needed to evenly distribute oil) and cook, turning pieces occasionally, until cooked through and outsides are golden brown, about 7 minutes (reduce heat slightly to medium heat as needed). Transfer chicken to a plate and repeat the process with remaining 1 1/2 Tbsp oil and chicken.
• Return chicken on plate to pan with other chicken, add sauce and toss to evenly coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm over white or brown rice.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Reheat with care: When reheating, do so gently in a pan to maintain the chicken's texture.
• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
• Experiment with flavors: You can add spices or different sauces to personalize the dish.

Keyword dinner ideas, easy Asian recipes, homemade sesame chicken, Sesame Chicken recipe