You know that moment when the kitchen fills with aromas so inviting that it feels like a warm hug? That’s exactly what happens when I whip up my Crispy Easy Sesame Chicken. In under 30 minutes, you can create a dazzling dish that rivals your favorite takeout without the hassle. This recipe not only satisfies those cravings but also ensures a fun, family-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare after a long day. With a delightful crispy texture and a sweet-tangy sesame glaze, each bite is an explosion of comfort and joy. Plus, the gluten-free option makes it accessible for everyone at the dinner table. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner game? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why is this sesame chicken a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This sesame chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Irresistibly Crispy: The tempura batter ensures a light and crispy exterior that your family will love.
Flavor-Packed: A sweet and tangy sesame glaze elevates the dish to comfort food status, easily rivaling takeout.
Customizable: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or add stir-fried veggies for a nutritious boost, similar to my Moo Shu Chicken.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners and gatherings; this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt this dish for gluten-free diets, making it inclusive for all your guests.
Easy Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein providing tenderness and juiciness; you can substitute chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for deep frying, creating that irresistible crispy exterior.
For the Sauce
• Sesame Oil – Adds a rich flavor and aroma; opt for toasted sesame oil for an enhanced taste.
• Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; can be substituted with gluten-free soy sauce to maintain the easy sesame chicken’s flavor.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the dish with acidity; apple cider vinegar can work as an alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and depth; feel free to use honey or coconut sugar as a substitute.
• Minced Garlic – Adds depth and richness; fresh garlic yields the best flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper – For a hint of spice; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Cornstarch – Used for thickening the sauce, helping to ensure a crispy batter.
• Water – Helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly.
For the Tempura Batter
• Flour – Combined with cornstarch to create the perfect tempura batter for crispy chicken.
• Egg Whites – Essential for binding the batter, leading to a delightful crunch.
• Cold Seltzer Water – Adds lightness to the batter for the most satisfying crunch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Sesame Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil. Incorporate toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. As you mix, ensure there are no lumps; the consistency should be smooth. Set this flavorful sauce aside, ready to coat your crispy Easy Sesame Chicken once it’s fried.
Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter
In another bowl, combine cornstarch and flour, then gently fold in egg whites and cold seltzer water. The batter should be light and slightly lumpy; don’t overmix! This mixture helps create that desired crispy texture when frying the chicken. Get your frying oil ready in the next step while letting your batter rest.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep saucepan or a wok until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Dip the chicken thighs into the tempura batter, ensuring they are fully coated, then carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In a sauté pan, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil on medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper, stirring for about 30 seconds or until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. This step infuses the oil with flavor, elevating the overall taste of your Easy Sesame Chicken.
Step 5: Combine
Once the chicken is fried and the aromatics are ready, add the crispy chicken to the sauté pan with the garlic mixture. Immediately pour in your pre-prepared sauce, and toss everything together quickly. Stir until the chicken is fully coated and the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Easy Sesame Chicken immediately for the best texture, over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with additional sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings the flavors of the restaurant right to your home!
What to Serve with Easy Sesame Chicken
Transform your dinner into a delightful feast with these delicious pairing ideas that perfectly complement your meal.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, jasmine rice absorbs the sweet-tangy sauce, making every bite heavenly.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and nutrients, balancing the dish beautifully.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: Add a crispy appetizer to your meal; these crunchy bites filled with veggies are a great way to kick off dinner.
Pair your meal with a vibrant Cucumber Salad: Fresh and tangy, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sesame chicken.
Don’t forget a delectable Mango Sticky Rice for dessert! The creamy coconut and sweet mango will end your meal on a high note.
- Chilled Green Tea: A soothing, refreshing drink that complements the flavors and lightens the overall meal experience.
Easy Sesame Chicken Variations
Every cooking experience is an opportunity for creativity! Embrace the chance to tailor this dish to your taste buds and discover new flavor profiles.
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Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option, maintaining that crispy texture.
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Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu cubes, marinating them briefly before coating and frying for a delightful plant-based twist. Tofu holds flavors beautifully and adds a wonderful texture when fried.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets while keeping all the delightful flavors intact.
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Sweeten Up: Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the brown sugar in the sauce. A touch of maple syrup can also provide a unique flavor twist.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in sliced bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas into the sauté pan with garlic for added nutrition and vibrant color. Your dish will be as healthy as it is delicious!
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Heat It Up: Add chili paste or sriracha to the sauce if you prefer a spicier kick. The heat balances wonderfully with the sweetness for those who crave bold flavors.
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Crispy Coating: Experiment with panko breadcrumbs mixed with the tempura batter for an extra-crunchy coating. It gives a delightful crunch that elevates each bite.
Feel free to explore these variations while making this dish your own! You could even try this with my scrumptious Honey Garlic Chicken for a different flavor journey!
Storage Tips for Easy Sesame Chicken
- Fridge: Store your Easy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the crispy texture a bit longer while maintaining freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it can make the coating soggy.
- Serving Recommendations: If you’ve prepared servings ahead of time, it’s best to reheat the chicken separately from the sauce to keep that delightful crunch!
Expert Tips for Easy Sesame Chicken
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and good-quality oils to enhance flavor. Fresh ingredients ensure your Easy Sesame Chicken is bursting with taste.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C) for even frying; too cool, and the chicken will soak in oil, losing its crispiness.
• Batter Care: Avoid overmixing the tempura batter to keep it light and airy. A few lumps are okay; this promotes a delightful crispy texture.
• Batch Frying: Fry chicken in smaller batches to prevent overcrowding the pan. This prevents steaming and allows for an even, golden crust.
• Quick Coating: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce quickly to retain its crunch. Letting it sit too long in sauce can make the coating soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Easy Sesame Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the tempura batter a day in advance; just refrigerate it to maintain its lightness. When you are ready to fry, ensure the oil is hot and fry the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Finally, sauté the garlic and combine everything right before serving, which guarantees that the dish will come out just as delicious! This way, you can have a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, ideal for busy weeknights.
Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work great too, but they can be less moist. Up to you!
How do I store leftovers of Easy Sesame Chicken?
For best results, store your Easy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This protects its flavor and helps keep that crispy texture. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing!
Can I freeze Easy Sesame Chicken?
Very! You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. First, allow it to cool and then pack it in a freezer-safe container or bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Easy Sesame Chicken?
To keep the crispy texture, reheat frozen chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it will make the coating soggy, which we definitely want to prevent!
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily make this Easy Sesame Chicken gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch. Just ensure the other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free as well. It’s a delicious treat everyone can enjoy!
Crispy Easy Sesame Chicken Ready in 30 Minutes Flat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil. Set this flavorful sauce aside.
- In another bowl, combine cornstarch and flour, then gently fold in egg whites and cold seltzer water. Let the batter rest.
- Heat vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Dip the chicken thighs into the tempura batter and fry in batches for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- In a sauté pan, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil and sauté minced garlic and crushed red pepper for about 30 seconds.
- Add the fried chicken to the sauté pan with the garlic mixture. Pour in the pre-prepared sauce and toss until fully coated.
- Serve immediately for best texture, over rice or with stir-fried vegetables, garnished with sesame seeds.
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