What Is Sesame Chicken? 7 Amazing Reasons To Try It Now

Introduction: What Is Sesame Chicken?

Have you ever wondered about the origins of one of America’s most beloved Chinese-inspired dishes? What is Sesame Chicken, and why has it captured the hearts (and taste buds) of so many? This iconic dish, a staple in Chinese restaurants across the United States and Canada, often sparks curiosity due to its unique blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors.

While often compared to General Tso’s chicken, Sesame Chicken stands out with its distinct profile, primarily characterized by its rich sesame-infused sauce and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. But beyond its delicious taste, there’s a fascinating story and a world of culinary delight waiting to be explored. Join us as we delve into the essence of this popular dish, uncover its secrets, and give you seven compelling reasons why you should try it now.

Ingredients List

Sesame Chicken ingredients — What Is Sesame Chicken? 7 Amazing Reasons To Try It Now 2

Crafting the perfect Sesame Chicken at home is easier than you might think, and it all starts with a carefully curated list of ingredients. While variations exist, the core components remain consistent, ensuring that signature sweet and savory flavor. Here’s what you’ll typically need, along with some suggestions for substitutions to fit your dietary needs or pantry availability:

For the Chicken:

•Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Approximately 1-1.5 lbs (450-680g), cut into 1-inch cubes. Thighs offer more flavor and moisture, while breasts are leaner.

•Egg: 1 large, for coating.

•Cornstarch or Potato Starch: 1/2 cup, for achieving that desirable crispy exterior. Potato starch often yields a crispier result.

•Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.

•Garlic Powder: 1 tsp, for an aromatic base.

•Cooking Oil: About 2-3 cups, for frying (e.g., vegetable, canola, or peanut oil).

For the Sesame Sauce:

•Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup (low-sodium preferred). Substitution: Tamari for gluten-free, Coconut Aminos for soy-free.

•Honey: 2-3 tablespoons. Substitution: Maple syrup or agave nectar.

•Brown Sugar: 2-3 tablespoons. Substitution: Granulated sugar, adjust to taste.

•Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon. Substitution: Apple cider vinegar (use slightly less as it’s stronger).

•Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon. This is crucial for the nutty aroma; avoid substituting if possible.

•Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced.

•Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated or minced.

•Sriracha or Chili-Garlic Sauce (Optional): 1 teaspoon, for a touch of heat. Substitution: A pinch of red pepper flakes.

•Water or Chicken Broth: 2 tablespoons, to thin the sauce.

•Cornstarch Slurry: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, for thickening the sauce.

For Garnish:

•Toasted Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, for garnish and added nutty flavor.

•Green Onions (Scallions): 2, chopped, for freshness and color.

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, making your homemade Sesame Chicken a truly delightful experience. Feel free to adjust quantities to your personal preference, especially for sweetness and spice levels.

Timing

One of the most appealing aspects of making Sesame Chicken at home is its relatively quick preparation and cooking time, especially when compared to the average takeout wait. While deep-frying can add a few extra minutes, many recipes are designed for efficiency, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the typical timing:

•Preparation Time: This usually involves cutting the chicken, mincing garlic and ginger, and whisking together the sauce ingredients. Expect this to take approximately 15-20 minutes. If you’re a seasoned cook, you might even shave a few minutes off this estimate.

•Cooking Time: This is where the magic happens. Frying the chicken in batches typically takes about 5-7 minutes per batch, ensuring each piece is golden brown and crispy. The sauce comes together very quickly, often in 2-3 minutes of simmering until thickened. For a typical recipe, the total cooking time is around 15-25 minutes.

•Total Time: From start to finish, you can expect your homemade Sesame Chicken to be ready in approximately 30-45 minutes. This is significantly faster than waiting for delivery or even driving to pick up takeout, which can often take 45-60 minutes or more, making your homemade version a time-efficient alternative.

Many recipes boast a total time of under an hour, with some even claiming a 20-minute completion for simpler versions. This efficiency makes Sesame Chicken an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence but you still crave a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the exciting part: cooking your very own delicious Sesame Chicken! Follow these steps closely, and don’t be afraid to add your personal touch. Remember, cooking is an art, and every chef brings their unique flair to the table.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving that coveted crispy exterior, as excess moisture can lead to a soggy coating. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg. In another shallow dish, combine the cornstarch (or potato starch), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres well. For an extra crispy result, some chefs even recommend a double dredge: egg, then cornstarch, then egg again, and finally back into the cornstarch. This creates a thicker crust that stands up beautifully to the sauce.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat your cooking oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle immediately when a tiny piece of chicken is dropped in (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy chicken.

Fry for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. If you’re unsure, you can always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain crispiness.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Irresistible Sesame Sauce

While the chicken is frying or draining, it’s time to create the star of the show: the sesame sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional sriracha or chili-garlic sauce. In a separate small bowl, prepare your cornstarch slurry by whisking together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This slurry is your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Thicken the Sauce

In a clean skillet or saucepan, pour the prepared sesame sauce mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to stir as the sauce thickens, which should happen quite quickly, usually within 1-2 minutes. The sauce should be glossy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – perhaps a little more honey for sweetness or a dash more soy sauce for savory depth.

Step 5: Toss and Serve!

Once your sauce is perfectly thickened, add the crispy fried chicken pieces directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the glorious sesame sauce. This step should be done quickly to prevent the chicken from losing its crispiness. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the fruits of your labor – a homemade Sesame Chicken that rivals your favorite takeout!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of your favorite dishes can help you make informed dietary choices. While traditional Sesame Chicken, especially from restaurants, can be high in calories, fat, and sodium due to deep-frying and sugary sauces, homemade versions offer more control over ingredients and preparation methods. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information for a typical serving of Sesame Chicken, keeping in mind that values can vary significantly based on ingredients and portion sizes:

Typical Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximately 1 cup or 250g):

•Calories: 500-750 calories. Restaurant versions can easily exceed 1000 calories per serving, while healthier homemade versions can be around 300-500 calories.

•Protein: 25-35 grams. Primarily from the chicken, essential for muscle repair and growth.

•Fat: 20-45 grams. This includes saturated and unsaturated fats, largely dependent on the cooking oil used and whether the chicken is deep-fried or pan-fried. A significant portion of this can be from the frying process.

•Carbohydrates: 40-70 grams. This includes sugars from the sauce and carbohydrates from any breading. Sugars can range from 20-40 grams.

•Sodium: 800-1500 mg. A considerable amount, mainly from soy sauce and other seasonings. This can be significantly reduced by using low-sodium soy sauce.

•Fiber: 1-3 grams. Generally low, unless served with a generous portion of vegetables.

Key Considerations:

•Deep-Frying vs. Baking/Pan-Frying: Deep-frying significantly increases the calorie and fat content. Opting for baking or pan-frying with less oil can drastically reduce these numbers.

•Sauce Content: The sauce is often a major contributor to sugar and sodium. Making your own sauce allows you to control these elements, using less sugar or healthier alternatives like honey in moderation, and low-sodium soy sauce.

•Portion Size: Restaurant portions are often very large. Being mindful of portion sizes at home can help manage calorie intake.

For a more precise nutritional analysis, consider using online nutrition calculators where you can input your specific ingredients and quantities. This will give you the most accurate data for your homemade Sesame Chicken.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While the classic Sesame Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s also possible to enjoy its flavors with a healthier twist. By making a few simple modifications and ingredient swaps, you can significantly reduce the calorie, fat, and sodium content without sacrificing taste. Here are some creative ideas to make your Sesame Chicken more diet-friendly and adaptable for various dietary needs:

1. Cooking Method Alternatives:

•Baking or Air Frying: Instead of deep-frying, toss the coated chicken pieces with a tablespoon of oil and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. An air fryer can achieve similar crispiness with even less oil, typically at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

•Pan-Searing: For a quicker option, pan-sear the chicken in a non-stick skillet with just a tablespoon or two of oil until cooked through and browned.

2. Sauce Modifications:

•Reduce Sugar: Cut down on the amount of honey and brown sugar in the sauce. You can gradually reduce it to find a sweetness level that suits your palate. Natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol can also be used in moderation, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

•Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Always opt for low-sodium soy sauce to drastically reduce the sodium content. Alternatively, use coconut aminos for a soy-free and lower-sodium option.

•Thicken Naturally: Instead of relying heavily on cornstarch, you can reduce the sauce more slowly over low heat to achieve a thicker consistency naturally. Adding pureed vegetables like roasted red bell pepper or carrots to the sauce can also add body and nutrients.

3. Ingredient Swaps:

•Leaner Protein: While chicken thighs are flavorful, chicken breast is a leaner option. You can also experiment with other proteins like tofu or shrimp for a different texture and nutritional profile.

•Whole Wheat Flour/Breadcrumbs: If you prefer a breaded chicken, consider using whole wheat flour or whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.

•Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding a generous amount of stir-fried vegetables to your dish. Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and mushrooms are excellent choices that complement the flavors of Sesame Chicken.

4. Dietary Adaptations:

•Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free. Avoid any wheat-based breading.

•Lower Carb: Skip the cornstarch coating on the chicken and use a sugar substitute in the sauce. Serve with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.

By implementing these healthier alternatives, you can transform your Sesame Chicken into a dish that aligns with your health goals while still delivering that satisfying, familiar taste. It’s all about mindful choices and creative cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Once your homemade Sesame Chicken is ready, the possibilities for serving are as endless as your culinary imagination! This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some creative and appealing serving suggestions, along with personalized tips to elevate your dining experience:

Classic Pairings:

•Steamed White or Brown Rice: The most traditional accompaniment, rice acts as a perfect canvas to soak up every drop of that delicious sesame sauce. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while white rice provides a softer texture.

•Noodles: For a heartier meal, serve your Sesame Chicken over a bed of lo mein, chow mein, or even simple spaghetti noodles. Toss the noodles with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of green onions for extra flavor.

•Steamed or Stir-fried Vegetables: Broccoli florets, snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, and bok choy are excellent choices. Lightly steam or stir-fry them with a touch of garlic and a splash of soy sauce to complement the chicken without overpowering it. This also adds a vibrant burst of color and essential nutrients to your plate.

Creative Twists:

•Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb option, serve the Sesame Chicken in crisp lettuce cups (such as butter lettuce or iceberg). This creates a refreshing and interactive meal, perfect for a warm evening.

•Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: If you’re looking for a grain-free or lower-carb alternative to traditional rice, quinoa offers a protein-rich base, while cauliflower rice provides a vegetable-packed option that still absorbs the sauce beautifully.

•Asian Slaw: A fresh, crunchy Asian slaw with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a wonderful textural contrast to the tender chicken and rich sauce. Look for recipes with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame-ginger dressing.

•In a Bowl with Avocado: For a modern, balanced meal, serve your Sesame Chicken in a bowl with rice or quinoa, sliced avocado, a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds, and perhaps a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a creamy, spicy kick.

Personalized Tips for an Enhanced Experience:

•Garnish Generously: Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! A generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the nutty flavor and freshness of the dish.

•Add a Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished dish can cut through the richness of the sauce and add a refreshing zest.

•Spice it Up: If you love heat, offer extra sriracha or chili flakes on the side for those who prefer a spicier kick. A dash of chili oil can also add a complex layer of flavor.

•Pair with a Beverage: A light lager, a crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or even a refreshing iced green tea can perfectly complement the flavors of Sesame Chicken.

Experiment with these suggestions to find your perfect pairing. Whether you stick to the classics or venture into new culinary territory, your homemade Sesame Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned home cooks can sometimes fall prey to common pitfalls when preparing Sesame Chicken. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish is consistently delicious and lives up to its full potential. Here are some typical errors and how to sidestep them:

1. Overcrowding the Pan During Frying:

•Mistake: Adding too much chicken to the frying oil at once. This drastically lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy, greasy chicken instead of crispy, golden pieces. The chicken will steam rather than fry.

•Solution: Fry the chicken in batches. Give each piece enough space in the pan to cook evenly and achieve maximum crispiness. It might take a little longer, but the results are well worth the effort.

2. Not Patting the Chicken Dry:

•Mistake: Skipping the crucial step of patting the chicken pieces dry before coating them. Excess moisture creates steam, which prevents the coating from adhering properly and becoming crispy.

•Solution: Always use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry before dredging it in the egg and cornstarch mixture. This ensures a better bond for the coating and a crispier end product.

3. Overcooking the Chicken:

•Mistake: Cooking the chicken for too long can result in dry, tough, and rubbery meat, especially if using leaner chicken breast.

•Solution: Cook the chicken until it’s just done. For fried chicken, this usually means 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the hot sauce.

4. Using Sesame Oil for Frying:

•Mistake: Using toasted sesame oil as the primary cooking oil for frying. Toasted sesame oil has a low smoke point and a very strong flavor that can become bitter when heated excessively.

•Solution: Reserve toasted sesame oil for the sauce and as a finishing oil. For frying, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil.

5. Adding Sauce Too Early or Over-Saucing:

•Mistake: Tossing the crispy chicken in the sauce too far in advance of serving, or using an excessive amount of sauce. This can make the chicken lose its crispiness and become soggy.

•Solution: Add the fried chicken to the sauce just before serving. Toss quickly to coat evenly. If you prefer a lighter coating, you can even serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

6. Not Adjusting Sauce Sweetness/Saltiness:

•Mistake: Following the sauce recipe rigidly without tasting and adjusting. Personal preferences for sweetness and saltiness vary greatly.

•Solution: Always taste your sauce before adding the chicken and adjust the honey/sugar or soy sauce to your liking. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the flavors and balance sweetness.

By being mindful of these common errors, you can significantly improve your Sesame Chicken and ensure a consistently delicious outcome every time you cook it.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

One of the great advantages of cooking at home is having delicious leftovers for future meals. Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness, flavor, and safety of your homemade Sesame Chicken. Here’s practical advice on storing leftovers and even prepping ingredients ahead of time:

Storing Cooked Sesame Chicken:

•Cool Completely: Before storing, ensure your cooked Sesame Chicken has cooled down to room temperature. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can lead to sogginess and bacterial growth. Do not leave it out for more than two hours.

•Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled chicken and any remaining sauce to an airtight container. This protects it from air exposure, which can dry out the chicken and affect its flavor.

•Refrigeration: Store the airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. While some sources suggest up to 5 days, 3-4 days is a safer guideline for optimal quality and food safety.

•Separating Chicken and Sauce (Optional but Recommended): If you want to preserve the crispiness of the chicken for reheating, consider storing the chicken and sauce separately. You can keep the sauce in a small, separate airtight container.

Reheating Leftovers:

•Oven or Air Fryer for Crispiness: To best revive the crispiness of the chicken, reheat it in an oven or air fryer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken in a single layer and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Add the sauce (if stored separately) after reheating.

•Microwave for Convenience: For a quick reheat, the microwave works, but be aware that the chicken may lose some of its crispiness and become softer. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Prepping Ingredients Ahead of Time:

•Chicken Preparation: You can cut the chicken into cubes and even coat it with the cornstarch mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just before frying, give it a quick toss to ensure the coating is evenly distributed.

•Sauce Preparation: The sesame sauce can be made entirely ahead of time and stored in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This is a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights. Simply reheat and thicken with the cornstarch slurry when you’re ready to cook the chicken.

•Mise en Place: Chop your garlic, ginger, and green onions in advance and store them in separate small containers. This

Expert Tips & Tricks

Elevate your homemade Sesame Chicken from good to extraordinary with these expert tips and tricks. These insights, gathered from seasoned chefs and culinary enthusiasts, will help you refine your technique and unlock even more flavor in your dish.

1. Double Fry for Ultimate Crispiness:

For that truly restaurant-quality crisp, consider double-frying your chicken. After the first fry (to cook the chicken through and achieve a light golden color), remove the chicken from the oil and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, increase the oil temperature slightly and fry the chicken a second time for 1-2 minutes. This second fry expels any remaining moisture, resulting in an incredibly crispy exterior that holds up better to the sauce.

2. Toast Your Sesame Seeds:

While many recipes call for toasted sesame seeds, ensure they are freshly toasted for maximum flavor. You can buy them pre-toasted, but a quick toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes (until fragrant and lightly golden) will release their essential oils and intensify their nutty aroma. This small step makes a big difference in the final dish.

3. Balance Sweetness with Acidity:

Sesame Chicken sauce is known for its balance of sweet and savory. If your sauce tastes too sweet, a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a splash more rice vinegar can cut through the sweetness and add a refreshing tang. Conversely, if it’s too tart, a pinch more sugar or honey will balance it out. Always taste and adjust!

4. Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic:

While garlic powder and ground ginger can be convenient, fresh ginger and garlic provide a much more vibrant and authentic flavor profile. Take the extra few minutes to mince fresh cloves of garlic and grate fresh ginger; your taste buds will thank you.

5. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry:

The cornstarch slurry is essential for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the hot sauce. Adding cornstarch directly to hot liquid will result in lumps. Whisk it in slowly while the sauce simmers, and it will thicken beautifully.

6. Consider a Wok for Stir-Frying:

If you plan on making stir-fries frequently, investing in a good wok can significantly improve your results. Woks distribute heat evenly and have sloped sides that make tossing and stirring ingredients much easier, leading to more consistent cooking and better flavor development.

These expert tips will help you master the art of homemade Sesame Chicken, ensuring a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfectly textured and balanced in flavor.

Examples or Case Studies

Beyond the recipe itself, the true magic of homemade Sesame Chicken lies in the personal stories and experiences it creates. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to connect, experiment, and even overcome culinary challenges. Here’s a personal anecdote that highlights the joy and satisfaction of mastering this dish at home:

A Weekend Culinary Adventure: From Takeout Regular to Home Cook Hero

For years, my go-to comfort food on a busy Friday night was always a takeout container of Sesame Chicken. The convenience was undeniable, but I often found myself wondering if I could replicate that sweet, savory, and crispy perfection in my own kitchen. The idea seemed daunting, filled with visions of oil splatters and soggy chicken.

One particular weekend, armed with a newfound determination and a well-researched recipe, I decided to embark on my own Sesame Chicken adventure. My first attempt was… well, a learning experience. The chicken was crispy, but the sauce was a little too sweet, and I realized I had overcrowded the pan, leading to some less-than-perfectly-crispy pieces.

Instead of being discouraged, I treated it as a culinary puzzle. I re-read my notes, watched a few more cooking videos, and decided to try again the very next day. This time, I focused on the details: patting the chicken extra dry, frying in smaller batches, and, most importantly, tasting the sauce as I went, adjusting the honey and vinegar until it hit that perfect balance.

And then it happened. The second batch of chicken emerged from the oil, perfectly golden and audibly crispy. As I tossed it in the glistening, perfectly balanced sauce, the aroma filled my kitchen, a scent that rivaled any takeout joint. The first bite was pure bliss – tender chicken, shatteringly crisp coating, and a sauce that was both sweet and tangy, with that unmistakable nutty sesame finish.

That weekend transformed me from a takeout regular into a home cook hero, at least in my own eyes. It wasn’t just about the delicious meal; it was about the process, the learning, and the immense satisfaction of creating something truly special from scratch. Now, homemade Sesame Chicken is a regular in my rotation, a testament to the fact that with a little patience and attention to detail, anyone can master this beloved dish and create their own culinary success story.

This personal journey underscores that cooking, especially with a dish like Sesame Chicken, is an iterative process. Each attempt refines your skills, and every small adjustment contributes to a more perfect outcome. So, don’t be afraid to experiment, learn from your experiences, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your efforts!

Conclusion

In summary, Sesame Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that blends crispy textures with a harmonious sweet and savory sauce. From understanding its core ingredients and mastering the cooking process to exploring healthier alternatives and avoiding common pitfalls, making this beloved dish at home is a rewarding endeavor. We’ve delved into its nutritional aspects, offered creative serving suggestions, and shared expert tips to perfect your technique. Now, it’s your turn! We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the review section, or leave a comment on our blog. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates and recipes!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sesame Chicken, designed to clarify common concerns and provide further insights into this delicious dish:

Q1: What is the difference between Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken?

While both are popular American Chinese dishes featuring fried chicken in a sweet and savory sauce, the main difference lies in their flavor profiles. Sesame Chicken is typically sweeter and milder, with a prominent nutty flavor from toasted sesame seeds. General Tso’s Chicken, on the other hand, is known for its spicier kick, often incorporating dried red chilies, and tends to have a more complex, tangy flavor.

Q2: Can I make Sesame Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make Sesame Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari (which is gluten-free soy sauce) and ensure that any cornstarch or other thickeners you use are certified gluten-free. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q3: How can I make my Sesame Chicken extra crispy?

For ultimate crispiness, consider these tips: 1) Pat the chicken very dry before coating. 2) Use cornstarch or potato starch for the coating. 3) Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers oil temperature. 4) For a truly superior crunch, double-fry the chicken: fry once until lightly golden, remove, let rest, then fry again for 1-2 minutes until deeply golden and crisp.

Q4: Is homemade Sesame Chicken healthier than takeout?

Generally, yes. When you make Sesame Chicken at home, you have full control over the ingredients and cooking methods. You can reduce the amount of sugar and sodium in the sauce, use less oil for frying (or opt for baking/air frying), and choose leaner cuts of chicken. This allows you to significantly reduce the calorie, fat, and sodium content compared to many restaurant versions.

Q5: Can I prepare parts of the recipe in advance?

Yes, you can! The chicken can be cut and coated with cornstarch a few hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The sesame sauce can be made entirely in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes weeknight cooking much faster and more convenient.

Q6: What are good side dishes to serve with Sesame Chicken?

Classic accompaniments include steamed white or brown rice, lo mein noodles, or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. For healthier alternatives, consider serving it with cauliflower rice, quinoa, or in lettuce wraps. A fresh Asian slaw also makes a great side.

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