Name: Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: For Sesame Chicken Sauce:; ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup rice vinegar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp Corn Starch; ⅓ cup water; 2 tsp sesame oil; ½ tbsp Sesame seeds; For Tempura Batter:; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ cup flour; 2 egg whites; ½ cup seltzer water; For Chicken:; 1 lb chicken thighs; 2 tsp sesame oil; ¼ tsp red pepper; 1 tbsp garlic; Vegetable Oil

Crispy sesame chicken is a delightful blend of Asian-inspired flavors with a perfect crunch. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory sesame sauce, all wrapped up in a light and airy tempura batter. It's a great dish for both family dinners and special gatherings.

Photos of Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe

While most ingredients in this recipe are common, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds might not be staples in every kitchen. These can be found in the international or Asian food aisle at your local supermarket. Seltzer water is essential for making the tempura batter light and crispy.

Ingredients For Crispy Sesame Chicken

Soy sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor to the dish.

Rice vinegar: Provides a tangy acidity that balances the sweetness.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

Corn starch: Thickens the sauce and gives the batter a crisp texture.

Water: Used to dilute and balance the sauce.

Sesame oil: Imparts a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.

Sesame seeds: Adds a crunchy texture and garnish.

Cornstarch: Essential for the tempura batter’s crispiness.

Flour: Forms the base for the tempura batter.

Egg whites: Makes the batter light and airy.

Seltzer water: Helps achieve the tempura batter’s light, crispy texture.

Chicken thighs: Provides juicy, tender meat for the dish.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat.

Garlic: Provides aromatic flavor.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken to perfection.

One reader, Hinda Pina says:

This crispy sesame chicken recipe is fantastic! The chicken is perfectly golden and the sauce is a delightful blend of sweet and savory. It's easy to make and tastes just like takeout. Highly recommend!

Hinda Pina

Essential Techniques for Perfecting Crispy Sesame Chicken

How to mix a sauce: Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, sesame oil, and sesame seeds in a bowl until well blended. How to make tempura batter: Mix cornstarch, flour, egg whites, and seltzer water in a separate bowl until smooth. How to coat chicken: Add chicken pieces to the prepared tempura batter and ensure they are fully coated. How to fry chicken: Heat 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350 degrees F and fry the battered chicken in batches until golden brown. How to cook with a wok: Add sesame oil to a large wok, then add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds before adding the sauce and fried chicken to coat.

How To Make Crispy Sesame Chicken

The crispy and juicy chicken is topped with slightly briny and sweet sesame chicken sauce with a sour undertaste. You’ll never have to order takeout again.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Sesame Chicken Sauce:

¼cupsoy sauce
¼cuprice vinegar
½cupbrown sugar
1tbspcorn starch
⅓cupwater
2tspsesame oil
½tbspsesame seeds

For Tempura Batter:

½cupcornstarch
½cupflour
2egg whites
½cupseltzer watercold

For Chicken:

1lbchicken thighsboneless and skinless cut into 1? chunks
2tspsesame oil
¼tspred peppercrushed
1tbspgarlicminced
vegetable oilfor deep frying

Instructions

To make the sauce mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.
Using a separate bowl, mix all the ingredients for the tempura batter. Set aside.
Add the chicken pieces to the batter and coat while heating 3 inches of oil to 350 degrees F.
Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown.
In a large wok, add the sesame oil to the frying pan and add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
Add in the sauce and the chicken and coat quickly and serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Calories: 362.95kcal
Fat: 18.54g
Saturated Fat: 4.08g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.53g
Carbohydrates: 32.19g
Fiber: 0.60g
Sugar: 11.88g
Protein: 15.66g
Cholesterol: 74.09mg
Sodium: 665.99mg
Calcium: 32.71mg
Potassium: 252.02mg
Iron: 1.08mg
Vitamin A: 17.59µg
Vitamin C: 0.61mg

One Simple Technique for Achieving Extra Crispy Chicken

When making the tempura batter, ensure that the seltzer water is ice-cold. This helps create a lighter, crispier coating for the chicken. Additionally, avoid over-mixing the batter; a few lumps are okay and will contribute to the desired texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Crispy Chicken Recipe

Prep ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the sauce and tempura batter ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a thermometer: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying by using a kitchen thermometer, which helps achieve perfect crispy chicken.

Batch cooking: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.

Pre-cut chicken: Use pre-cut chicken thighs to save time on preparation.

Garlic paste: Substitute fresh garlic with garlic paste to reduce chopping time.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe

soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can mimic the tanginess of rice vinegar.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, though it will change the texture slightly.
corn starch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a good thickening agent and works similarly to cornstarch.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds extra flavor to the sauce.
sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used, though it will lack the nutty flavor of sesame oil.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds provide a similar crunch and visual appeal.
cornstarch - Substitute with potato starch: Potato starch offers a similar texture for the tempura batter.
flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is a gluten-free alternative that works well in tempura batter.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can mimic the binding properties of egg whites.
seltzer water - Substitute with club soda: Club soda provides the same effervescence needed for a light tempura batter.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is leaner and can be used if preferred.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking.
red pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor but can be used to add a similar aromatic quality.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for frying.

How to Beautifully Present This Crispy Chicken Dish

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the crispy sesame chicken in elegant, bite-sized portions to highlight the delicate texture and flavors.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for a touch of color and freshness.
Create height: Stack the chicken pieces artistically to add visual interest and dimension to the dish.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the sesame chicken sauce around the plate in a decorative pattern to enhance the visual appeal and ensure each bite is flavorful.
Incorporate texture: Add a small side of crispy vegetable tempura to complement the chicken and provide a contrasting texture.
Use premium plating: Serve the dish on a sleek, modern plate with a dark finish to make the colors of the chicken and garnishes pop.
Add microgreens: Top the dish with a few microgreens for an elegant touch and a hint of freshness.
Balance flavors: Include a small portion of pickled vegetables on the side to balance the sweetness of the sauce with some acidity.
Highlight ingredients: Place a small bowl of sesame seeds and red pepper flakes on the side to allow diners to customize the heat and nuttiness to their preference.
Finish with finesse: Lightly brush the edges of the plate with a bit of sesame oil for a subtle sheen and an aromatic finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crispy Sesame Chicken

Mixing bowl: Use this to combine all the ingredients for the sesame chicken sauce and the tempura batter.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients and the tempura batter until smooth.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for the sauce and batter ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Use these for precise amounts of sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and garlic.
Knife: For cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Cutting board: A safe surface to cut the chicken thighs.
Deep-fry thermometer: To ensure the oil reaches and maintains the correct temperature of 350 degrees F.
Large wok: Ideal for frying the chicken and combining it with the sauce.
Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken pieces while frying and mixing them with the sauce.
Paper towels: To drain the excess oil from the fried chicken pieces.
Plate: For placing the fried chicken pieces before they are mixed with the sauce.
Spatula: For stirring the garlic and red pepper flakes in the wok.
Serving dish: To present the final crispy sesame chicken.
Small bowl: For mixing the cornstarch with water to create a slurry for the sauce.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Crispy Sesame Chicken

Let the crispy sesame chicken cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store leftover crispy sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To maintain the crispiness of the chicken, store the sauce separately in another airtight container in the refrigerator.
When ready to reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan or microwave until warm.
To freeze, place the cooled crispy sesame chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Freeze the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.
To reheat frozen crispy sesame chicken, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the frozen chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a saucepan or microwave until warm.
Note: Freezing may slightly affect the texture of the chicken, making it less crispy compared to freshly cooked crispy sesame chicken.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Crispy Sesame Chicken

To reheat leftover crispy sesame chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy again. This method helps to preserve the crispiness of the tempura batter while reheating the chicken evenly.
Another option is to use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy. The air fryer is an excellent choice for reheating fried foods as it helps to maintain the crispiness without adding extra oil.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. However, keep in mind that the microwave may cause the tempura batter to become soggy. To help mitigate this, place a damp paper towel over the chicken before microwaving to help retain some of the moisture and prevent the coating from drying out.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the leftover chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy. This method is quick and easy, but it may require additional oil to help restore the crispiness of the tempura batter.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to reheat the sesame chicken sauce separately. Simply place the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. Once the chicken and sauce are heated, combine them and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Interesting Trivia About Crispy Sesame Chicken

A unique aspect of this crispy sesame chicken recipe is the use of seltzer water in the tempura batter. The carbonation in the seltzer water helps create a lighter, crispier coating on the chicken, enhancing the overall texture and making it irresistibly crunchy.

Is Making Crispy Sesame Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This crispy sesame chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thighs, soy sauce, and rice vinegar are affordable and widely available. The use of vegetable oil and cornstarch adds minimal cost. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Considering the delicious outcome and the relatively low cost, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is Crispy Sesame Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

This crispy sesame chicken recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

Deep frying the chicken in vegetable oil adds a significant amount of unhealthy fats and calories
The sauce contains a high amount of sugar from the brown sugar, which can contribute to obesity and other health issues when consumed in excess
Soy sauce is high in sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems if consumed too frequently

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of deep frying the chicken, try baking or air frying it with a light coating of cooking spray to achieve a crispy texture with less oil
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce by half and replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace some of the soy sauce with a mixture of water and coconut aminos to reduce the overall sodium content
Increase the amount of sesame oil in the sauce and for cooking the chicken to add more healthy fats and flavor
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables and brown rice to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of crispy sesame chicken while minimizing the potential negative health impacts of the original recipe. Remember, moderation is key, and even healthier versions of recipes should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe

This crispy sesame chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The balance of sweet and savory in the sauce, combined with the light, airy tempura batter, creates a dish that's both satisfying and addictive. The use of chicken thighs ensures juicy, tender meat, while the sesame oil and seeds add a nutty depth. The quick stir-fry with garlic and red pepper flakes infuses the dish with a subtle heat and aromatic punch. Overall, it's a well-rounded recipe that promises a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Enhance Your Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Butter Green Beans: Imagine a plate of vibrant green beans sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The crispiness of the sesame chicken pairs perfectly with the tender crunch of these beans, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Pineapple Fried Rice: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with pineapple fried rice. The sweet and tangy pineapple chunks meld seamlessly with the savory notes of soy sauce and scallions, making it an ideal companion to the crispy sesame chicken.

Spicy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a spicy kick can elevate your meal to new heights. The cool, crisp cucumbers are tossed in a zesty chili vinaigrette, providing a delightful contrast to the rich, savory chicken.

Miso Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of miso soup. The umami-rich broth infused with tofu and seaweed offers a soothing complement to the bold flavors of the sesame chicken, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with mango sticky rice. The creamy, coconut-infused sticky rice paired with juicy, ripe mango slices provides a delightful contrast to the savory main course, leaving your taste buds thoroughly satisfied.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Crispy Sesame Chicken

General Tso's Chicken: Dive into the sweet and spicy world of General Tso's Chicken. This dish features crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a tangy sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that packs a punch!

Orange Chicken: Experience the zesty delight of Orange Chicken. Tender chicken pieces are fried to perfection and then tossed in a vibrant sauce made with fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and a touch of honey. A citrusy twist that will brighten up your meal!

Honey Garlic Chicken: Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Honey Garlic Chicken. This dish combines crispy chicken with a luscious sauce made from honey, garlic, and soy sauce. A perfect balance of sweetness and umami that will leave you craving more.

Sweet and Sour Chicken: Indulge in the classic taste of Sweet and Sour Chicken. Crispy chicken pieces are enveloped in a delightful sauce made with pineapple juice, vinegar, and a touch of ketchup. A nostalgic favorite that brings a burst of flavor to your table.

Lemon Chicken: Refresh your palate with the bright and tangy Lemon Chicken. This dish features golden-fried chicken pieces coated in a zesty sauce made with fresh lemon juice, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger. A light and refreshing option for any meal.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Crispy Chicken Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the creamy filling and the tender mushroom exterior. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of umami, making each bite a burst of flavor. Serve these Stuffed Mushrooms at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of crusty baguette, toasted to a golden brown. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, all drizzled with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil. A hint of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy note that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients. This Bruschetta is not only visually appealing but also a delightful explosion of flavors, making it an ideal starter for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center oozing out as you cut into a perfectly baked cake. This dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors, combining a slightly crisp exterior with a rich, gooey interior. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an indulgent treat that will leave your guests in awe. The contrast between the warm chocolate and the cold ice cream creates a delightful experience for the palate.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the lemon filling providing a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the meringue. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and garnish with a few lemon zest curls for an extra touch of elegance.

Why trust this Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe:

This crispy sesame chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. The tempura batter ensures each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy, while the sesame sauce adds a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Using fresh ingredients like garlic and red pepper flakes enhances the dish's authenticity. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and guaranteed delicious results.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Crispy Sesame Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy after frying?

To keep the chicken crispy, make sure to fry it in small batches and avoid overcrowding the pan. Once fried, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent it from getting soggy.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

What can I use as a substitute for seltzer water in the tempura batter?

If you don't have seltzer water, you can use club soda or even plain water. The carbonation helps make the batter lighter and crispier, so try to use a fizzy substitute if possible.

How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat to the dish. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. If you want it milder, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to make sure everything is well combined.