Description
This classic Sesame Chicken recipe features crispy, golden fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory homemade sesame sauce. Perfectly balanced with honey, soy sauce, and a touch of garlic, this dish is garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for an irresistible flavor and texture combination. Ideal for a family meal, it requires about 40 minutes from start to finish and serves six.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying (about 3 inches in a deep pan)
Sauce
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (reduced sodium, if possible)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will be used to coat the chicken pieces before breading.
- Mix Dry Breading: In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch. Stir thoroughly to mix the two ingredients evenly.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it in the flour and cornstarch mixture to coat completely. Continue this process until all chicken pieces are breaded.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep pan, pour about 3 inches of oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is hot enough for deep frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add 7-8 pieces of breaded chicken into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 5 minutes or until the chicken pieces are crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining chicken.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: While the chicken cooks, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and 2 teaspoons cornstarch in a bowl. Stir well to dissolve the cornstarch.
- Cook Garlic and Sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, warm 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the coated chicken with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture with the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- Be sure the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F for the crispiest results.
- Use reduced sodium soy sauce to control salt intake without sacrificing flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute the ketchup with tomato paste for a less sweet flavor.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the frying pan to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or sautéed vegetables.