Learn The Secret To Making The Best Sesame Chicken – It’s Easier Than You Think!

Craving the irresistible flavors of sesame chicken? This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to create this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow along as we delve into the secrets of cooking perfect sesame chicken, from marinating the chicken to achieving that tantalizing golden-brown crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces and fry in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

3. Prepare the Sesame Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, granulated sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.

4. Heat the Sesame Sauce

Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Pour in the sesame sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.

5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the sesame sauce. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with additional sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying.
• Use a neutral-flavored oil for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken. This will prevent it from cooking evenly.
• If the sesame sauce is too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
• Serve the sesame chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Variations:

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the sesame sauce for a kick of heat.
• Honey Sesame Chicken: Add a tablespoon of honey to the sesame sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Ginger Sesame Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to the sesame sauce for a more pronounced ginger flavor.

“Finishing Touches”:

• Sesame Chicken with Broccoli: Stir in 1 cup of broccoli florets to the skillet with the chicken and sesame sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
• Sesame Chicken with Snow Peas: Add 1 cup of snow peas to the skillet with the chicken and sesame sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the snow peas are bright green and tender.
• Sesame Chicken with Bell Peppers: Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers (any color) to the skillet with the chicken and sesame sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender-crisp.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: Can I make the sesame sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the sesame sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it over medium heat before using.

Q: What sides go well with sesame chicken?

A: Sesame chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or egg rolls.

Q: How can I make the sesame chicken healthier?

A: To make the sesame chicken healthier, use less oil for frying and opt for brown rice or whole-wheat noodles instead of white rice or noodles.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use other types of meat for this recipe, such as pork, beef, or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.