There’s something so satisfying about the crunch of crispy chicken paired with a savory glaze—it’s the kind of meal that can transport me back to my favorite take-out joint, but without the guilt of fast food. Recently, I discovered how easy it is to create this restaurant-quality dish right in my own kitchen, and I can’t wait to share my Easy Sesame Chicken recipe with you.
Picture this: tender chicken thighs coated in a light, airy batter, deep-fried to golden perfection, and then tossed in a luscious sesame sauce. The aroma of garlic and sesame oil fills the air, tempting everyone at home to gather around the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this dish is a winner every time. Plus, it can be whipped up in a flash, giving you more time to savor your culinary triumph. Ready to dive into this flavor-packed adventure? Let’s get started!
Why is Easy Sesame Chicken a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: This dish delivers a mouthwatering blend of sweet and savory that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Crispy Perfection: The golden-brown chicken is coated in a light batter for an irresistible crunch.
Quick and Simple: With minimal fuss, you can bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table in no time, making it perfect for busy nights.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over steamed rice, toss it in a salad, or enjoy it as an appetizer; the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress everyone and keep them coming back for more!
For more delicious recipes to elevate your cooking, check out our tips on quick weeknight meals.
Easy Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor that is essential for authentic taste.
- Rice Vinegar – Provides a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce and gives it a beautiful glaze.
- Corn Starch – Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious texture.
- Water – Dilutes the sauce slightly for the perfect consistency.
- Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Sesame Seeds – Adds a decorative crunch and enhances the sesame flavor.
For the Batter
- Cornstarch – Creates a crispy exterior when frying the chicken chunks.
- Flour – Helps form the batter for the chicken, aiding in achieving that perfect crunch.
- Egg Whites – Lightens the batter and contributes to a delicate texture.
- Cold Seltzer Water – Ensures the batter is airy and bubbly for ultimate crispiness.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, they’re perfect for frying and soaking up flavors.
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for deep frying to achieve that golden brown perfection.
For the Flavor
- Sesame Oil – Deepens the flavor when sautéing the garlic and red pepper.
- Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a hint of heat to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
- Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness and rich flavor.
With these easy ingredients, you’re on your way to making a scrumptious Easy Sesame Chicken that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Easy Sesame Chicken
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Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, corn starch, water, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper. This savory blend forms the base of your sauce—set it aside for later.
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Mix the Batter: In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, egg whites, and cold seltzer water. Whisk gently until just combined. This light batter will coat your chicken beautifully, ensuring a crispy texture.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach about 3 inches deep and heat it to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy, as this is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown crunch.
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Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, dip the chicken pieces into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully add them to the oil in batches. Fry until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
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Sauté Aromatics and Combine: In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce and quickly add the fried chicken, gently tossing to coat everything evenly.
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Serve Immediately: Plate the coated chicken and garnish with sesame seeds for added crunch and presentation. Enjoy your Easy Sesame Chicken hot, right from the skillet!
Optional: Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Sesame Chicken components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time. You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavors. The batter can also be mixed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours—the cold seltzer water ensures it stays bubbly! To fry, simply heat the oil, dip the prepped chicken pieces in the batter, and fry until golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort when it’s time to serve! Just remember to re-whisk the batter briefly before dipping the chicken to ensure that perfect crispiness.
Tips for the Best Easy Sesame Chicken
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Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at 350°F before frying. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy.
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Batter Consistency: Whisk the batter until just combined; over-mixing will make it tough. A light, airy batter is key for your Easy Sesame Chicken’s crunch!
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Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve an even golden-brown color.
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Sautéing Aromatics: Always sauté the garlic and red pepper before adding sauce to enhance their flavors. Don’t let them burn—just a quick cook is perfect!
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Garnishing: Garnish your finished dish with extra sesame seeds for that restaurant-quality touch, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
What to Serve with Easy Sesame Chicken?
Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that complement the savory richness of this crispy chicken.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light and fluffy rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, balancing the flavors. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
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Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites add an exciting texture contrast, filled with vibrant veggies that pair well with the dish’s flavors. Serve them with a sweet dipping sauce for an extra kick!
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Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed in garlic with a hint of sesame oil, these green beans provide a fresh, crunchy side that contrasts the succulent chicken.
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Tangy Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing slaw adds a zesty crunch that brightens the palate and complements the rich chicken. The acidity cuts through the sweetness delightfully.
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Sesame Noodles: Lightly dressed with a soy-sesame sauce, these noodles offer a nutty flavor that pairs seamlessly with the chicken, creating a satisfying meal.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, try this lovely sweet dish! The creamy coconut sauce and ripe mango provide a refreshing finish to your meal, wrapping everything up beautifully.
Easy Sesame Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful twists to elevate your Easy Sesame Chicken experience!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free blend or almond flour to make it celiac-friendly. You’ll still achieve that crispy crunch everyone loves.
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Crispy Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat the chicken in the batter and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier option that still delivers the crunch. The aroma as it bakes is simply irresistible!
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Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add more crushed red pepper or even a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick. Your taste buds will thank you for the added warmth!
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Honey Sesame Chicken: Replace brown sugar in the sauce with honey for a richer, more floral sweetness that complements the sesame beautifully. This variation balances out the savory notes perfectly.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use diced firm tofu or cauliflower bites instead of chicken for a vegetarian take. The batter will create a lovely, golden crust that’s packed with flavor.
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Sesame Ginger Chicken: Incorporate fresh grated ginger into the sauce for a zesty twist. The ginger not only adds depth but also brings a brightness to the overall flavor profile.
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Sesame-Mango Chicken: Toss in some diced mango while sautéing for a tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the dish. Every bite will feel like a mini-vacation!
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Asian Veggie Mix: Add a medley of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for a colorful and nutritious addition. This enhances the dish while making it even more satisfying.
Embrace your inner chef and personalize your Easy Sesame Chicken with these fun variations!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Sesame Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To restore crunch, bake the thawed chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Easy Sesame Chicken even after it’s stored!
Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Easy Sesame Chicken?
Use boneless and skinless chicken thighs for this recipe, as they remain tender and juicy when fried. Chicken breasts can be used as an alternative, but they may require a bit more care while frying to avoid dryness.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
Heat your vegetable oil to 350°F for frying. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a tiny bit of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles immediately, you’re good to go!
How long can I store leftovers of Easy Sesame Chicken in the fridge?
Store your leftover Easy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The key is to avoid letting moisture build up inside the container, which can make the chicken soggy.
Can I freeze Easy Sesame Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat leftover Easy Sesame Chicken while keeping it crispy?
To restore the crunch, bake the thawed chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. This method allows the outside to crisp up again, making it taste just as fresh as when first made.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce for Easy Sesame Chicken?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also try coconut aminos, which is a great alternative that offers a similar flavor without the gluten!
Savory Easy Sesame Chicken That's Better Than Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, corn starch, water, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper. Set it aside for later.
- Mix the Batter: In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, egg whites, and cold seltzer water. Whisk gently until just combined.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F.
- Fry the Chicken: Dip chicken pieces into the batter and fry in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics and Combine: In a large wok, heat sesame oil, sauté minced garlic and crushed red pepper for 30 seconds, then add the sauce and fried chicken.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the coated chicken, garnish with sesame seeds, and enjoy hot!