Crispy sesame chicken is a delicious and popular dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory sesame sauce. Here’s a recipe to make it at home:
Crispy Sesame Chicken is a delightful and popular dish that has become a favorite in many Asian-inspired restaurants and homes alike. Known for its crunchy texture, savory flavor, and sweet undertones, this dish is a perfect combination of crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a luscious sesame sauce. With its appealing presentation and mouthwatering taste, Crispy Sesame Chicken is a dish that is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering or dinner.
While the chicken is frying, the sesame sauce is prepared. This sauce is what truly elevates Crispy Sesame Chicken, providing a rich and flavorful glaze that ties the dish together. The sauce typically consists of soy sauce, honey or sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic. The combination of soy sauce and honey creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet, while the rice vinegar adds a touch of acidity that brightens the flavors. Sesame oil contributes a nutty aroma and flavor, while minced garlic adds depth and warmth.
To make the sauce, the ingredients are combined in a saucepan and brought to a simmer. The sauce is often thickened with a cornstarch slurry, which gives it a glossy finish and helps it cling to the crispy chicken. Once the sauce has thickened, it is removed from the heat and set aside until the chicken is ready.
Once the chicken is fried to perfection, it is removed from the oil and drained on paper towels to remove any excess grease. The crispy chicken pieces are then tossed in the prepared sesame sauce, ensuring that each piece is generously coated. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors of the sauce to penetrate the crispy coating while maintaining that satisfying crunch.
In summary, Crispy Sesame Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a crispy coating and a rich sesame sauce. With its delightful texture, savory-sweet flavor, and beautiful presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, fire up the fryer, and enjoy the wonderful experience of making and savoring this delicious Asian-inspired classic!
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 lb (about 450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
For the sauce:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
For garnish:
– Toasted sesame seeds
– Sliced green onions
Instructions:
1. In a shallow bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Place the cornstarch in another shallow bowl.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the sauce.
7. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
8. Pour the sauce mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer.
9. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat.
10. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.
11. Serve the crispy sesame chicken immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
12. Enjoy your delicious homemade crispy sesame chicken with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes!
This crispy sesame chicken is sure to be a hit with its crunchy texture and flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for a satisfying dinner any day of the week!