Name: Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 5 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 units eggs (lightly beaten); 3 tbsp cornflour ((cornstarch)); 10 tbsp plain flour ((all-purpose)); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; ½ tsp garlic salt; 2 tsp paprika; 3 units chicken breast fillets (chopped into bite-size chunks); 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional - can be omitted); 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced); 1 tbsp Chinese rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar); 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (adjust to taste); 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 4 tbsp soy sauce; boiled rice; 2 tbsp sesame seeds; small bunch spring onions/scallions (chopped)

Introduction to Crispy Sesame Chicken

Crispy sesame chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and texture right to your dining table. Imagine tender chicken chunks coated in a beautifully crispy batter, all tossed in a sticky, savory sauce that will make your taste buds sing! Homemade crispy sesame chicken not only satisfies that craving for something crunchy and sweet but also allows you to control ingredients, ensuring a healthier, more nutritious meal.

Why Homemade is Better Than Fast Food?

While a quick trip to your favorite fast-food joint may seem convenient, it often comes at the expense of quality and health. One of the best parts about making crispy sesame chicken at home is knowing exactly what goes into your dish. You can use fresh, organic chicken and avoid preservatives and artificial ingredients commonly found in fast food options.

Moreover, cooking at home gives you the freedom to adjust flavors to your liking. Want it spicier? Go ahead and add more chili sauce! Prefer a lighter sauce? Just tweak the honey and sugar levels. As you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself not only impressing family and friends but also feeling great about the meals you serve. And let’s be honest—nothing beats the aroma of freshly cooked sesame chicken wafting through your kitchen!

Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken

To achieve that signature crispy sesame chicken, you'll first need to gather some essential ingredients. This includes:

Chicken Breast Fillets: 3 fillets, chopped into bite-sized chunks for even cooking.
Eggs: 2, lightly beaten, which act as a binder for the flour coating.
Flours: Combine 3 tablespoons of cornflour (cornstarch) with 10 tablespoons of plain flour to create that perfect crispy crust.
Seasonings: A blend of ½ teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and garlic salt, along with 2 teaspoons of paprika to enhance the flavor profile.

Must-Have Sauce Components

A delicious sticky Asian sauce is crucial for giving your dish that extra flair. Here’s what you’ll need:

Soy Sauce: 4 tablespoons to provide a savory base.
Honey: 2 tablespoons for sweetness.
Sweet Chilli Sauce: 2 tablespoons, adjusting to your spice preference.
Vinegar & Garlic: 1 tablespoon of Chinese rice vinegar and 2 minced garlic cloves for an additional depth of flavor.

Optional Garnishes for Presentation

Elevate your dish with some attractive garnishes! Consider adding:

Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons sprinkled on top for that extra crunch.
Spring Onions/Scallions: A small bunch, chopped, adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Now you’re all set to whip up a delightful plate of crispy sesame chicken! Don’t forget to serve it alongside some perfectly boiled rice for a complete meal. 🌿

Preparing Crispy Sesame Chicken

Creating crispy sesame chicken at home is both an exciting culinary adventure and a delicious treat that you can whip up in no time. With a few simple steps, you can have a delightful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s get started!

Gather and Prep the Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to gather all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth workflow and minimizes stress. Here’s what you need:

For the chicken:
3 chicken breast fillets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 eggs, lightly beaten
3 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch)
10 tablespoon plain (all-purpose) flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon garlic salt
2 teaspoon paprika
5 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
For the sticky sauce:
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Chinese rice vinegar
2 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce
3 tablespoon ketchup
2 tablespoon brown sugar
4 tablespoon soy sauce

Make sure everything is prepped and at hand!

Create the Dredging Stations

Setting up your dredging stations is a game-changer. Use three shallow bowls: Place the cornflour in one, the beaten eggs in another, and combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika in the third. This organization will streamline the coating process for your chicken, helping you achieve that desired crunchy texture.

Cook the Crispy Chicken

Next, it’s time to cook the chicken! Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan until it's sizzling hot. Dredge each chicken piece in the cornflour first, then dip it into the egg wash, ensuring all sides are coated. Finally, dredge it through the seasoned flour. Gently add the chicken to the hot oil, cooking it for about 6-7 minutes. Turn the chicken occasionally for an even golden-brown finish. Depending on your pan's size, you might need to do this in batches.

Whisk Together the Sticky Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sticky sauce. In a bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: sesame oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, honey, sweet chilli sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Whisk them together until well blended. This sauce is the secret to that irresistible flavor, so don’t be shy!

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is perfectly crispy, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined bowl to absorb excess oil. In the same hot wok, pour in your sticky sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer until it reduces slightly (about 2-3 minutes). Then add the crispy chicken back into the wok, tossing it to coat thoroughly with that delectable sauce. Cook for another minute or two, ensuring each piece is nicely glazed.

Serve your crispy sesame chicken over boiled rice, garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions. Prepared this way, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! Happy cooking!

Variations on Crispy Sesame Chicken

Honey Garlic Version
For those who love a sweet twist, try a honey garlic variation on your crispy sesame chicken. Just add a couple of tablespoons of honey and minced garlic to the sauce, allowing it to caramelize as it reduces. The result? A delightful, sticky glaze that perfectly complements the crispy chicken. Serve with steamed broccoli or over jasmine rice for a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. If you're interested in more honey recipes, check out this honey garlic chicken recipe.

Spicy Sesame Chicken
If you’re craving something with a kick, swap out the sweet chili sauce for your favorite hot sauce in the original recipe. To elevate this spicy sesame chicken, consider adding sliced red chilies or a teaspoon of chili flakes to the sauce. This variation pairs beautifully with cold noodles or a fresh cucumber salad, bringing a fiery balance to your meal. Spice enthusiasts can explore more spicy dishes with this spicy chicken stir-fry guide for endless culinary inspiration!

Cooking tips and notes for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Tips for achieving maximum crispiness

To make your crispy sesame chicken irresistibly crunchy, ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and helps maintain its crisp texture. Dredge the chicken lightly through the cornflour and seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. For an extra crunch, consider frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Common mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is overcooking the chicken, as this can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden-brown color and a juicy center. Additionally, don't skip the resting step on kitchen towels after frying; this helps remove excess oil. Lastly, avoid using too much sauce when tossing, as it can soften the chicken's crispy coating. For more tips, check out Serious Eats for advice on frying techniques!

Serving suggestions for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Ideal side dishes

To elevate your crispy sesame chicken experience, consider pairing it with fluffy boiled rice, which perfectly soaks up the sticky Asian sauce. For a touch of color and crunch, add steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy alongside. If you're in the mood for something more indulgent, try serving it with fragrant jasmine or coconut rice for a delightful twist.

Pairing with beverages

When it comes to beverages, refreshing options like iced green tea or sparkling water infused with lime complement the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a light ginger ale can enhance the dish's savory taste without overwhelming it. Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Give a mocktail a try, like a basil-lime cooler, to balance out the rich flavors of the chicken.

Time Breakdown for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up your crispy sesame chicken should take about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken, gathering your ingredients, and mixing your coatings.

Cooking Time
Once you're all set, cook the chicken to perfection in just 10-12 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together!

Total Time
In just 25-30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal on the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something special! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Nutritional Facts for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Calories
In each serving of crispy sesame chicken, you’ll enjoy approximately 542 calories. This flavorful dish packs a punch, so it's perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Protein
With about 26 grams of protein per serving, this recipe provides a solid boost to help you meet your daily nutritional needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall health!

Sodium
Keep in mind that this dish contains roughly 1915 mg of sodium. While the rich flavors are delicious, it’s a good idea to balance your weekly diet with lower-sodium options. Check out the American Heart Association for more tips on managing sodium intake.

Conclusion

Incorporating crispy sesame chicken into your meal rotation can be a delightful and nutritious choice. With its crispy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

FAQs about Crispy Sesame Chicken

How can I make my chicken extra crispy?

To achieve ultra-crispy sesame chicken, ensure you’re using enough oil and frying at a high temperature. Consider double-dredging your chicken: coat it in cornflour, dip it in egg, then coat again in the seasoned flour. This extra layer adds crunch. For an even crispier texture, let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying, allowing the coating to adhere better.

What can I substitute in the sauce?

If you're out of an ingredient for the sticky Asian sauce, don’t worry! You can substitute the Chinese rice vinegar with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. For the sweet element, if you’re low on honey, maple syrup or brown sugar can work, too. Feel free to adjust the amounts of sweet chili sauce based on your spice preference if you're looking for a milder version!

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your crispy sesame chicken fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to separate the chicken from the sauce to maintain its crunch. Consume within 2-3 days. When reheating, consider using an air fryer or a hot pan rather than the microwave, which may make the chicken soggy.

Conclusion on Crispy Sesame Chicken

In wrapping up our journey through crispy sesame chicken, remember that this dish is more than just a meal—it's an experience. The irresistible crunch paired with the sticky, savory sauce is sure to impress your dinner guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious satisfaction of homemade Asian cuisine!