Name: Crispy Sesame Chicken: Indulgent Delight with Sticky Asian Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 5 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 pcs eggs (lightly beaten); 3 tbsp cornflour ((cornstarch)); 10 tbsp plain flour ((all-purpose)); 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp pepper; 0.5 tsp garlic salt; 2 tsp paprika; 3 pcs chicken breast fillets (chopped into bite-size chunks); 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional); 2 cloves garlic (peeled and minced); 1 tbsp Chinese rice vinegar (white wine vinegar will work too); 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (use more or less depending on the brand and how spicy you like it); 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 4 tbsp soy sauce; boiled rice; 2 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 bunch spring onions/scallions (chopped)

Introduction to Crispy Sesame Chicken

Why Homemade Crispy Sesame Chicken?

There's something truly special about making crispy sesame chicken at home. Not only do you have control over the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality, but you also get to customize it to your own taste. Whether you prefer it extra crispy or with a bit more heat from the chili sauce, the possibilities are endless! Plus, the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks will make your mouth water in anticipation. Have you ever had that moment of joy when you realize you can recreate your favorite takeout dish right at home? With just a few simple steps, you can impress yourself and your friends with this restaurant-quality dish.

The Deliciousness of Asian Flavors

One of the standout features of crispy sesame chicken is the irresistible combination of Asian flavors that come together beautifully. The mix of soy sauce, garlic, and honey creates a rich, sticky glaze that elevates this dish to another level. The sweetness balances perfectly with the savory elements, making each bite a delightful experience. If you're a fan of Asian cuisine, this dish is an exciting way to explore those bold flavors without leaving your kitchen! Interested in learning more about the ingredients? You might want to check out this guide to Asian sauces.

So, let’s dive into the recipe and bring some excitement to your dinner table!

Ingredients for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Creating delicious crispy sesame chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown for you!

Chicken and Batter Ingredients

For the chicken, you will need:

3 chicken breast fillets, chopped into bite-size chunks
2 eggs, lightly beaten for that perfect coating
3 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch) to help achieve the crispiness you crave
10 tablespoons plain (all-purpose) flour for a light batter
Seasoning: ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic salt, and 2 teaspoons paprika

Sauce Ingredients

The sticky, mouthwatering sauce brings everything together. Grab these:

1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional for that authentic flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Chinese rice vinegar (or substitute white vinegar)
2 tablespoons honey for sweetness
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, adjusting to your spice preference
3 tablespoons ketchup for that tangy base
2 tablespoons brown sugar to enhance the sauce's richness
4 tablespoons soy sauce for depth of flavor

Serving Extras

To elevate your dish, consider adding:

Cooked boiled rice for a perfect pairing
2 tablespoons sesame seeds for an extra crunch
A small bunch of chopped spring onions or scallions for a fresh kick

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to whipping up an irresistible crispy sesame chicken that will delight your taste buds! For tips on how to boil rice perfectly, check out this guide.

Step-by-step Preparation of Crispy Sesame Chicken

Creating crispy sesame chicken at home is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect crunch and flavor that will impress your friends and family.

Heat the Oil

Start by heating 5 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or a large frying pan. You want it to get very hot, so the chicken can achieve that delicious crispy texture. A good tip is to test the oil by dropping a small piece of chicken in; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go!

Prepare the Chicken

While the oil heats up, it’s time to prepare your chicken. Chop 3 chicken breast fillets into bite-size chunks for easy handling. This not only makes cooking quicker but also ensures that every piece gets evenly coated and crispy. You’ll be amazed at how this step sets the stage for crispy sesame chicken that’s bursting with flavor.

Dredging the Chicken

You’ll need three shallow bowls for dredging. In the first bowl, pour in 3 tablespoons of cornflour (cornstarch). In the second bowl, crack and lightly beat 2 eggs. Finally, in the third bowl, mix 10 tablespoons of plain (all-purpose) flour with ½ teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and garlic salt, plus 2 teaspoons of paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Next, dredge each piece of chicken in cornflour, dip it into the egg wash, and then coat it thoroughly with the seasoned flour. This three-step process helps create that irresistible crunch when frying.

Fry the Chicken

When your oil is hot enough, gently add the chicken pieces to the wok. Fry them for about 6-7 minutes, turning them two or three times to ensure they are browned evenly. Depending on the size of your frying pan, you may need to cook in batches. Once golden and crispy, transfer the chicken to a bowl lined with kitchen towels to absorb excess oil.

Make the Sticky Sauce

In the same hot wok, add the sauce ingredients: 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Chinese rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce, 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 4 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir and let it bubble for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces by a third. This sauce is where the magic happens!

Combine and Serve

Finally, it's time to bring everything together! Add your crispy chicken back into the wok, ensuring each piece is coated with that sticky sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Now, serve your crispy sesame chicken over boiled rice, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for that perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy your home-cooked dish that’s so good it rivals your favorite takeout! For a complete meal, check out our guide on boiling rice.

Variations on Crispy Sesame Chicken

Spicy Sesame Chicken

If you’re craving a little heat, why not transform your crispy sesame chicken into a spicy delight? Simply incorporate some chopped fresh chilies, sriracha, or even a splash of chili oil into the sticky sauce. The beauty of customizing is that you can adjust the spice levels to your liking, whether it's a subtle kick or a fiery punch. Trust me, it’s an adventurous upgrade that can elevate your home-cooked dish to restaurant-worthy status!

Veggie Version with Tofu

For a plant-based twist, consider swapping chicken with crispy tofu for your own version of crispy sesame chicken. The process is similar: cube firm tofu, toss it in the same seasoned flour mixture, and fry until golden. This variation not only caters to vegetarians but also offers a satisfying, protein-packed option for everyone. Drizzle with the same delectable sticky sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s both wholesome and mouthwatering. Want to dive into more tofu recipes? Check out more ideas here.

Remember, these variations keep the core flavors intact while allowing you to explore different tastes—perfect for impressing friends or satisfying your own cravings!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Creating the perfect crispy sesame chicken is all about technique. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time:

Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good test is to drop in a small piece of chicken; if it sizzles instantly, you’re good to go!
Double Dredging: Don’t skip the dredging process. This triple coating of cornflour, egg, and seasoned flour is what gives your chicken that irresistible crunch.
Sauce Timing: Add your chicken back to the wok just before serving to maintain its crispiness. This step helps prevent sogginess from the sauce.

For more saucy recipes, check out Kitchensanctuary for inspiration!

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Elevate your Crispy Sesame Chicken experience with these delightful serving suggestions. Start by presenting your chicken over a fluffy bed of boiled rice; it absorbs the savory sauce beautifully. For an extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously on top, adding both texture and a nutty aroma.

Don’t forget fresh spring onions—they provide a pop of color and a hint of sharpness that balances the sweetness of the sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a crunchy cucumber salad or steamed broccoli to brighten the plate. Explore different sides like edamame or Asian-style slaw for even more variety!

For a quick recipe for boiled rice, check out this guide.

Time Breakdown for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Preparation time
Get your cooking on with a quick 15 minutes for prepping! This includes chopping your chicken, mixing up the flours, and getting your sauce ingredients ready.

Cooking time
Once you start, you'll spend about 15-20 minutes cooking everything to golden-brown perfection and allowing those scrumptious flavors to meld.

Total time
With both the prep and cooking phases, you're looking at a delightful 30-35 minutes from kitchen to table for this mouthwatering Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

For more tips on timing and flavors, check out my resource on meal prep techniques. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Crispy Sesame Chicken

When indulging in the delightful flavors of crispy sesame chicken with a sticky Asian sauce, it's essential to be mindful of what’s going into your meal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Calories

Each serving of crispy sesame chicken contains roughly 300 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable meal option.

Protein

This dish packs a protein punch with about 25 grams per serving, thanks to the chicken, which is critical for muscle repair and overall health.

Sodium

Be cautious about sodium intake; a serving can contain up to 800 mg. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce to enjoy the flavors while watching your salt intake.

For more tips on balancing calories and enhancing the nutritional profile of your meals, check out resources like the Mayo Clinic or the USDA Nutrition database. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

FAQs about Crispy Sesame Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts for their lean meat and quick cooking time, chicken thighs make an excellent substitute. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which can add an extra layer of richness to your crispy sesame chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to reach the desired crispiness.

How can I make it gluten-free?
If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, it's quite simple! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that you use gluten-free soy sauce, often labeled as tamari. This way, you can still savor every bite of your crispy sesame chicken without any concerns about gluten.

What's the best way to store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow your crispy sesame chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just remember to reheat gently to maintain that delightful crunch!

Conclusion on Crispy Sesame Chicken

This Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce recipe is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen. Its delightful crunch, paired with a rich sauce, will surely impress family and friends. Try it tonight for an easy, satisfying meal! Don’t forget to serve it with boiled rice for the perfect feast.