Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the best of Asian flavors right to your dining table. The tender, crispy chicken is coated in a sweet and savory sticky sauce, featuring the nutty essence of sesame oil and the irresistible crunch of sesame seeds. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, oozing with flavor and charm.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is loved for its balance of flavors and textures, combining crispy chicken with a luscious sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. The ease of preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. It fits well into various dietary lifestyles, providing protein-packed goodness while also being easily adaptable for those seeking gluten-free or lower-carb options.
Tips and Tricks
- For the crispiest chicken, make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating it in the cornstarch. This helps achieve that golden-brown crunch.
- Prepare the sauce ahead of time and allow the flavors to meld together. It will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Don’t skip the sesame seeds; they add not only flavor but also visual appeal. Toasting them lightly before adding can elevate the nuttiness.
- Use a thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness—165°F is the perfect internal temperature for juicy chicken.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for a deeper flavor. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Cooked sesame chicken can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the stir-fry for added nutrition and color. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes or Sriracha into the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve the sesame chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional sesame seeds for a pop of color. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can also elevate the dish, making it visually stunning.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light, fruity white wine like Riesling or a refreshing cocktail such as a Ginger Mojito. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled jasmine tea would complement the flavors beautifully. For sides, consider serving steamed bok choy or a simple cucumber salad to balance the dish’s richness.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or wok for frying the chicken
- A mixing bowl for preparing the marinade and sauce
- Tongs or a slotted spoon for flipping the chicken
- A meat thermometer for checking doneness
- Optional: a deep fryer for a more controlled frying environment
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan option, substitute chicken with firm tofu, ensuring to press it to remove excess moisture. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. For a nut-free adaptation, skip sesame oil and opt for canola or vegetable oil.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider adding fresh zucchini or bell peppers to the dish. In the fall, a splash of pumpkin puree can be mixed into the sauce for a seasonal twist. Winter months might inspire you to add hearty greens like kale for an earthy flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness.
- How can I make it less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce or increase the soy sauce and vinegar.
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How do I make it spicier? Add chili paste or fresh minced ginger to the sauce.
How To Make Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce
Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce
Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the best of Asian flavors right to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes (to taste)
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and patting them dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated. Shake off any excess.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 417Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 96mgSodium 965mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 2gSugar 21gProtein 38g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce is a recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings for bold flavors and comforting textures. With its simple cooking method and delightful taste, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among many. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and leave everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the cooking process, and savor every delicious bite!