Crispy Sesame Chicken with Glaze

Name: Crispy Sesame Chicken with Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 lb boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Discover a crisp and glossy sesame-soy glazed chicken, perfect for any meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Sesame chicken is a delightful dish known for its crisp texture and glossy, flavourful glaze. This version of sesame chicken brings together the richness of toasted sesame seeds and the savoury depth of soy sauce, creating a dish that's both satisfying and visually appealing. Unlike General Tso's chicken, which leans towards a spicy, tangy profile with a thick sauce, sesame chicken focuses on a more subtle sweetness with an emphasis on the nutty aroma of sesame seeds. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a milder, yet equally delicious, flavour profile.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce and allow to marinate for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: This helps tenderize the chicken and enhances flavour.

Coat the Chicken

Toss the marinated chicken in cornstarch until evenly coated.

Pro tip: Ensure each piece is well covered for a crisp texture.

Heat the Oil

Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer for precise temperature control.

Fry the Chicken

Fry the chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C.

Pro tip: Check doneness by probing the thickest part of a piece.

Make the Sauce

In a separate pan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to prevent burning.

Combine and Serve

Add the fried chicken to the sauce, toss to coat evenly, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Pro tip: Serve immediately for best texture.

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Tips & Tricks

Use cornstarch for extra crispy chicken.
Toast sesame seeds for enhanced flavour.
Balance sweetness with a touch of vinegar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sesame chicken?

Sesame chicken is a dish featuring crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sesame-soy glaze, often with toasted sesame seeds.

How is sesame chicken different from General Tso's chicken?

Sesame chicken is less spicy and more focused on sesame and sweet soy flavours, whereas General Tso's is spicier and tangier.

What temperature should chicken be cooked to?

Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C.

How do you make sesame chicken crispy?

Coating the chicken in cornstarch and frying ensures a crispy texture.

Can I make sesame chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Combine and reheat just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this crispy sesame chicken over a bed of steamed rice to soak up the delicious glaze. Pair it with a fresh cucumber salad or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish can be prepared ahead; simply store the cooked chicken and glaze separately. Reheat and combine just before serving to maintain the chicken's crispness.