The Ultimate Guide to Making Sesame Chicken: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

If you’re a fan of takeout, you’ve likely savored the irresistible taste of sesame chicken—crispy fried chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce, topped with sesame seeds. But did you know you can make this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen? With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be creating a dish that’s even better than what you’d order out. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe, step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make sesame chicken, you need a handful of pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Chicken and Batter:

• Chicken thighs or chicken breast: Choose thighs for juicier results or breasts for leaner meat.
• Cornstarch: For that essential crispy coating.
• Flour: Adds structure and texture to the batter.
• Egg white: Helps bind the batter to the chicken.
• Water: For the right consistency in the batter.
• Soy sauce: Infuses the chicken with savory undertones.

For the Sauce:

• Soy sauce: The salty base of the sauce.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth to the sweetness.
• Ketchup: For tanginess and vibrant color.
• Rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with acidity.
• White pepper: Lends a subtle heat.
• Garlic: Essential for aroma and flavor.
• Shaoxing wine (optional): Adds complexity to the sauce.
• Sesame oil: Boosts the nutty aroma.
• Sesame seeds: The perfect finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

The foundation of great sesame chicken starts with perfectly battered chicken.

• In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, egg white, water, and a splash of soy sauce. Stir until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them into the batter. Ensure every piece is evenly coated.

2. Deep Fry the Chicken

Frying gives sesame chicken its iconic crispy texture.

• Heat a pot of oil to 330–340°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a bit of batter into the oil—it should sizzle and float to the surface.
• Fry the chicken pieces in small batches for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pot to keep the oil temperature consistent.
• Remove the chicken and let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

3. Double Fry (Optional but Recommended)

Double frying takes your sesame chicken to the next level of crispiness.

• Increase the oil temperature to 375°F.
• Fry the chicken again for 30–60 seconds. This step locks in the crunch and ensures the chicken stays crispy even after being coated in sauce.

4. Make the Sauce

Now, it’s time to create the sweet and savory glaze that defines sesame chicken.

• In a saucepan, mix soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, and rice vinegar.
• Add minced garlic, a dash of white pepper, and a splash of Shaoxing wine (if using).
• Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
• Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil for a rich, nutty flavor.

5. Toss and Coat the Chicken

With your chicken fried and sauce ready, it’s time to bring it all together.

• Add the fried chicken to the saucepan and toss until every piece is coated in the glossy sauce.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken for extra flavor and texture. Toss gently for another 10–20 seconds to combine.

6. Serve and Enjoy

You’ve made it to the final step!

• Plate the sesame chicken and garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness.
• Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce.

Why Homemade Sesame Chicken is Better

1. Healthier Control

When you make sesame chicken at home, you can control the amount of oil, sugar, and sodium, tailoring the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs.

2. Fresher Ingredients

Homemade sesame chicken uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, making it tastier and healthier than takeout options.

3. Customizable Flavors

Want it spicier? Add chili flakes. Prefer less sweetness? Reduce the honey. Making it yourself allows endless customization.

Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken

1. Use the Right Oil

Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, for frying.

2. Test the Oil Temperature

Maintaining the right temperature is key for crispy chicken. Too low, and the chicken absorbs oil; too high, and it burns.

3. Prep Ingredients Ahead

Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process, especially when frying and making the sauce.

4. Serve Immediately

Sesame chicken tastes best fresh. The crispiness and sauce are at their peak right after cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! Coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs after the batter for extra crunch and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes. It won’t be as crispy as frying, but it’s a healthier option.

Q2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free flour and tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Q3. What’s a substitute for Shaoxing wine?
Dry sherry or apple cider vinegar works well as substitutes.

Q4. Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks?
Yes! Adjust the frying time based on the size of the chicken pieces.

Q5. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to revive the crispiness.

Q6. What can I serve with sesame chicken?
Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

Making sesame chicken at home is easier than you might think and guarantees a dish that’s fresher, healthier, and more flavorful than takeout. With this recipe, you’ll master the art of crispy fried chicken and the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this sesame chicken will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.         

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