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Sesame Chicken is a delicious and popular dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, savory sauce, and a delightful crunch from sesame seeds. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and it can easily be prepared in under 30 minutes. With its unique flavor profile and appealing presentation, Sesame Chicken is sure to become a family favorite. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering dish, along with some helpful tips and FAQs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help create a crispy texture when cooked.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the chicken and toss to ensure they stick to the pieces.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
FAQs about Sesame Chicken
What is Sesame Chicken?
Sesame Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, often garnished with sesame seeds.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Is Sesame Chicken spicy?
Traditional Sesame Chicken is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.
How can I make Sesame Chicken healthier?
You can make Sesame Chicken healthier by baking the chicken instead of frying it, using less oil, or substituting honey with a sugar-free alternative.
Can I make Sesame Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine.
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