Name: Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 chicken breast fillets chopped into bite-size chunks; 5 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 eggs lightly beaten; 3 tbsp cornflour ((cornstarch)); 10 tbsp plain flour ((all-purpose)); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; ½ tsp garlic salt; 2 tsp paprika; 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 spice level); 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 4 tbsp soy sauce; boiled rice; 2 tbsp sesame seeds; small bunch spring onions/scallions (chopped)

Introduction to Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce

Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Trying to find a dish that satisfies your cravings without sacrificing health? Look no further! Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce is not only simple to make but also a sure-fire crowd-pleaser.

Why make crispy sesame chicken at home?

Making this delicious dish at home offers so many advantages over ordering takeout. First, you control the ingredients, ensuring everything is fresh and tailored to your taste. Curious about the health aspects? You can swap in lean chicken and adjust the sweetness of the sauce to make it your own.

Imagine the aroma of crispy chicken sizzling in the pan, mingling with a sticky, sweet sauce that coats every piece. It’s quick to whip up, taking only about 30 minutes from prep to plate—perfect for busy weeknights! Plus, it’s versatile; serve it with boiled rice or try a colorful stir-fried veggie side.

This dish captures the essence of your favorite Asian-inspired meals, and trust me, once you make it, takeout will be a thing of the past! For a deep dive into the ingredients and a full recipe, keep reading!

Try my Special Fried Rice for a perfect pairing!

Ingredients for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken

To achieve that beloved crispy texture in our Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

3 chicken breast fillets: Cut into bite-sized chunks for perfect frying.
Vegetable oil (5 tbsp): The choice of oil is crucial for frying. It ensures that the chicken becomes beautifully golden and crispy.
2 lightly beaten eggs: This creates a sticky coating for the flour to cling onto.
Cornflour (3 tbsp): Helps the chicken achieve that crunch.
Plain flour (10 tbsp): The base of our crispy coating.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika adds layers of flavor.

Ingredients for the Sticky Asian Sauce

This sauce is what elevates your dish from good to gourmet! Here are the essential ingredients:

Sesame oil (1 tbsp): Adds a rich, nutty flavor, although it’s optional.
Garlic (2 cloves): Freshly minced for the best aroma.
Honey (2 tbsp): Brings sweetness to balance out the salty soy.
Soy sauce (4 tbsp): A staple in many Asian dishes that provides umami.
Sweet chili sauce (2 tbsp): Give it a kick, adjusting to your spice preference.
Brown sugar (2 tbsp): For extra depth in sweetness.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to delighting your taste buds! For tips on boiling rice or adding extra flavor, check out our boiled rice guide.

Preparing Crispy Sesame Chicken

If you've ever craved a dish that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, look no further than Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you're entertaining friends. Let’s walk through the steps to bring this tasty dish to your table!

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

To kick off the cooking adventure, make sure you have everything you need on hand, and prepped for the best experience. Here’s what you’ll require:

Chicken: 3 succulent chicken breast fillets, chopped into bite-sized chunks.
For Breading: Eggs, cornflour, plain flour, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika.
Sauce Ingredients: Sesame oil (optional), minced garlic, rice vinegar, honey, sweet chilli sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
To Serve: Boiled rice, sesame seeds, and chopped spring onion.

Having your ingredients ready means you can whip up this dish quickly!

Create the Breading for the Chicken

Let’s tackle the chicken. In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station:

First bowl: Lightly beaten eggs.
Second bowl: Cornflour.
Third bowl: A mixture of plain flour, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and paprika.

Start the process by dredging each piece of chicken in cornflour, then dipping it into the egg wash, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Finally, toss it in the seasoned flour mix, creating that mouthwatering crust.

Fry the Chicken to a Perfect Crisp

Now for the fun part—frying! Heat vegetable oil in a wok or a large frying pan until it’s sizzling hot. Carefully add the breaded chicken chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and crisp. Once done, place them on a plate lined with kitchen towels to absorb excess oil.

Make the Sticky Asian Sauce

While the chicken is frying, it’s the perfect time to whip up the sticky sauce. Use the same hot wok, add the minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, sweet chilli sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir well and cook on high heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce reduces, becoming sticky and flavorful. This rich sauce is the heart of your Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce, so don’t skimp on the flavor!

Combine Chicken with Sauce and Toss

Once your chicken is fried and crispy, return it to the wok. Pour the sauce over the top, tossing everything together gently to coat the chicken evenly. Allow it all to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting those flavors meld beautifully.

Finally, serve your crispy sesame chicken over boiled rice, garnishing with sesame seeds and spring onions for that extra touch. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Variations on Crispy Sesame Chicken

Adding Vegetables to the Dish

To elevate your Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce, toss in some colorful vegetables! Think bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a crunchy texture and added nutrition. Sauté them alongside the chicken for a quick stir-fry, or serve them on the side. Not only does this add vibrancy to your plate, but it also makes the meal heartier and more satisfying!

Spicing Up the Sauce with More Heat

For those who crave a little kick, consider spicing up your sauce! A splash of sriracha or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can transform the flavor profile beautifully. Want a deeper heat? Try adding diced jalapeños or even a dash of chili oil. Personalizing the heat level makes this dish even more exciting and ensures it meets your taste buds' expectations.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Best Oil for Frying

For frying your Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce, opt for oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the heat required for frying, ensuring a crispy texture without burning. Avoid using olive oil, as it’s not ideal for high-temperature cooking.

Tips for Perfect Frying Temperature

Achieving the right frying temperature is key! Heat your oil until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small bit of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle right away. Frying in small batches helps maintain the temperature and prevents sogginess. Remember, patience pays off in crunchy coating perfection!

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce

Sides that Complement the Dish

Pair your Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce with a variety of sides to fully elevate the meal. Consider serving fluffy boiled rice, which acts as a perfect base to soak up the sticky sauce. For a vibrant twist, try a fresh cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil. Other great options include steamed broccoli or wok-fried vegetables for a colorful presentation and additional crunch.

Garnishes to Enhance Presentation

Make your dish visually appealing by adding simple garnishes. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful nuttiness, while chopped spring onions not only bring a pop of color but also a refreshing crunch. For an extra touch, consider drizzling sriracha or a lime wedge on the side; this elevates both the flavor profile and presentation of your Crispy Sesame Chicken. Don’t forget, a lush herb garnish like cilantro can create an eye-catching finish. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Time breakdown for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Preparation time

Preparing your ingredients and getting everything set takes about 15 minutes. This is when you’ll chop the chicken, whisk the eggs, and measure out your flour and seasoning. Pro tip: have everything prepped and ready to go to streamline the cooking process!

Cooking time

Cooking the chicken and making that sticky Asian sauce will take around 15 minutes. Since we're going for that perfect crispy texture, be sure to keep an eye on the heat levels while frying.

Total time

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to serve! Perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it’s sure to impress the family more than any takeout option. Don’t forget to pair it with some fluffy boiled rice and sprinkle those yummy sesame seeds on top!

For more delicious recipes, check out Kitchensanctuary for inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Calories

One serving of Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce contains approximately 542 calories. This makes it a hearty choice for dinner without going overboard on calories.

Protein

Packed with 26 grams of protein, this dish is not just delicious but also a great source of lean protein. It's perfect for keeping you full and satisfied, especially after a long day.

Sodium

On the flip side, one serving has about 1915 mg of sodium. While this adds flavor, it's good to be mindful if you're watching your sodium intake. Consider pairing it with low-sodium options or fresh veggies to balance it out.

For more insights on nutrition, check out the USDA’s FoodData Central where you can dive deeper into food composition!

FAQs about Crispy Sesame Chicken

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce in advance. Cook the chicken and toss it in the sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving for that fresh, crispy texture.

What can I serve with crispy sesame chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Traditional options include steamed boiled rice or my delicious Special Fried Rice. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh side salad to add some crunch.

Is there a way to make it healthier?

Certainly! To lighten up your Crispy Sesame Chicken, consider using leaner cuts of chicken, like chicken thighs, and swap out frying for baking. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce or use honey alternatives like agave syrup. By making these simple adjustments, you can enjoy this satisfying dish without compromising on flavor!

Conclusion on Crispy Sesame Chicken

In conclusion, Crispy Sesame Chicken with a Sticky Asian Sauce is more than just a meal—it's a flavorful experience that everyone will love. Quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and watch it become a family favorite that outshines takeout!