Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready to whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to make? Today, I’m super excited to share with you my go-to recipe for crispy sesame chicken that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a flavorful meal to impress your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinner ideas.
- Crispy and flavorful: The combination of sesame seeds and honey creates a delightful crunch and sweetness.
- Customizable: Serve it with your favorite sides, from steamed veggies to garlic butter pasta for a quick meal.
- Family-friendly: Everyone will love the sweet and savory flavors of this sesame chicken recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering crispy sesame chicken. Don’t worry, the full measurements are in the printable recipe card below!
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s walk through the steps together. This recipe is a breeze, and you’ll have it on the table in no time!
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating adheres properly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper—this is your chance to add any extra spices you love!
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of paprika. This combo gives the chicken that perfect crispiness. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. You want a light, even coating.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Stir in the sesame seeds for that extra burst of flavor.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the crispy chicken pieces to the saucepan with the sesame sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Sprinkle with some extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy the oohs and aahs!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tricks to take your sesame chicken to the next level:
- Double the Crisp: For an extra crispy coating, you can chill the floured chicken pieces in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before frying.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Meal Prep: Cook a double batch and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready for a quick meal.
How to Serve
Serving this crispy sesame chicken is all about creating a balanced and delicious meal. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Over Rice: A classic choice! Serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all that tasty sauce.
- With Veggies: Add some steamed broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for a healthy and colorful meal.
- In a Bowl: Turn it into a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with your favorite toppings like pickled ginger, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
- As a Sandwich: Pile it high on a bun with some crunchy slaw for a fun twist on chicken sandwiches. Speaking of sandwiches, have you tried my Best 20 Minute Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich Recipe? It’s a game-changer!
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. When you’re ready, just cook the chicken and combine everything.
- Storage: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave until crispy again.
And there you have it, my friends! A quick, easy, and absolutely delicious sesame chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or prepping for a weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to pair it with some Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles for a full, satisfying meal. Happy cooking, and I’ll see you in the kitchen!
Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 breasts boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
Garnish
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate in soy sauce and cornstarch for 10 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss in the sauce until well coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.