Sesame Chicken

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Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Sesame Chicken—crispy, tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sesame Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for added depth of flavor)
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken sauce)
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
    • Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then coat with the flour mixture, pressing lightly to make sure it sticks.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  3. Make the Sesame Sauce:
    • In a separate small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, hoisin sauce (if using), grated ginger, and minced garlic.
    • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
    • Once the sauce starts to simmer, whisk in the cornstarch-water mixture and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:
    • Once the sauce has thickened, add the crispy chicken to the skillet or wok.
    • Pour the sesame sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
  5. Serve:
    • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
    • Serve the sesame chicken with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips:

  • For Extra Crispy Chicken: Double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the egg and flour mixture before frying.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sesame sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Add Veggies: For a one-pan meal, toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas along with the chicken when you add the sauce.

This Sesame Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes—great for serving over rice or alongside your favorite veggies!

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