Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe - Delicious Takeout Copycat

Sesame chicken is a beloved dish that has found its way into the hearts and homes of food enthusiasts around the globe. With its rich flavors and succulent texture, it offers a delightful culinary experience that's perfect for any occasion. If you're a foodie looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe to add to your repertoire, allow us to share a mouthwatering sesame chicken recipe that will have your taste buds dancing. In this post, we'll walk you through the entire process, from gathering the ingredients to serving up a dish that's as pleasing to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients for Sesame Chicken

To get started on your sesame chicken feast, you'll need these essential ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup of cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of water
• 2 tablespoons of ketchup
• 1/2 cup of vinegar
• 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons of sesame oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon of water
• Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

These simple yet flavorful ingredients will come together to create a sesame chicken dish that's better than takeout.

Preparation Steps

Before you start cooking, it's important to prepare your ingredients and workstations.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
• Dredge the seasoned chicken in cornstarch, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat once more in cornstarch. This will give the chicken a delectable crispy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of water, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Set this aside to use later.

Step 3: Mise en Place

• Ensure all your ingredients are measured and prepared before you start cooking. This step, known as 'mise en place,' is crucial for a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

With all your ingredients ready, it's time to fire up the stove and start cooking your sesame chicken.

Step 1: Frying the Chicken

• In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Once cooked, place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 2: Making the Sauce

• Bring a small saucepan to medium heat and add the minced garlic.
• Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, and then pour in the sauce mixture that you prepared earlier.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Thickening the Sauce

• In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to make a slurry.
• Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce and stir until the sauce thickens, which should only take a minute or two.

Step 4: Combining the Chicken and Sauce

• Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Presentation Tips

The visual appeal of a dish can sometimes be as satisfying as its taste. Here's how to present your sesame chicken with flair.

• Transfer your sesame chicken to a serving dish or a bed of fluffy white rice.
• Drizzle any remaining sauce over the chicken for an enticing shine.
• Scatter thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a burst of color and texture.
• Serve with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Health Benefits of Sesame Chicken

Believe it or not, your favorite sesame chicken dish can offer some healthy perks, especially when homemade.

• Chicken is a lean protein that supports muscle health and provides essential amino acids.
• Sesame seeds are rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc, contributing to bone health and boosting your immune system.
• Using fresh vegetables in the dish, such as garlic and green onions, adds a range of vitamins and antioxidants to your meal.

Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying this dish.

This delectable sesame chicken recipe is a culinary adventure waiting to happen in your kitchen. The dish offers a combination of flavors and textures that are sure to win you compliments from friends and family. Don your chef's hat, gather your ingredients, and take on the challenge of mastering this classic dish. Whether for a cozy night in or a dinner party, this sesame chicken recipe is a must-try for any food enthusiast. Happy cooking!