Introduction
Sesame chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. It has a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes that make it a favorite in many households.
Making sesame chicken at home allows you to enjoy fresh ingredients and control the flavors. The homemade version is healthier and more satisfying than restaurant takeout.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress family and friends. It can be served on busy weeknights or for special dinners without any hassle.
Ingredients Needed
Here is the complete list of ingredients along with their approximate calorie count per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 500 g | 550 |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup | 240 |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | 110 |
| Eggs | 2 | 140 |
| Sesame oil | 2 tbsp | 180 |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup | 35 |
| Honey | 3 tbsp | 190 |
| Rice vinegar | 2 tbsp | 5 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp | 2 |
| Sesame seeds | 2 tbsp | 100 |
| Green onions (chopped) | 2 | 10 |
| Water | ½ cup | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat the eggs separately and dip each chicken piece in the eggs, then coat with the flour mixture.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken pieces until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In a separate pan, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and water.
- Simmer the sauce over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Use brown sugar instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.
- Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds or sliced almonds for crunch.
- Adjust soy sauce and vinegar to balance sweetness and tanginess.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of sesame chicken:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve sesame chicken with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. It pairs well with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. For a complete meal, consider adding a light soup or a fresh salad on the side.
Conclusion
Homemade sesame chicken delivers fresh flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. Preparing it at home ensures quality ingredients and lets you adjust sweetness and seasoning to your liking.
This recipe is versatile for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The crispy chicken coated in a glossy sesame sauce makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
