Sesame Chicken
Recipe Overview
Overview
Sesame Chicken is a beloved dish that brings together the rich flavors of soy sauce and sesame in a delightful stir-fry. The recipe starts with marinating bite-sized pieces of chicken in a mixture of grated ginger, salt, and pepper, which infuses the meat with flavor before it even hits the pan. After a brief marination, the chicken is pan-fried until golden brown, ensuring a crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside.
The sauce is where the magic happens. A combination of light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, ketchup, sugar, sesame paste, and rice vinegar creates a balanced flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet. As the sauce thickens, it clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite satisfying. The addition of toasted sesame oil at the end adds a fragrant finish that elevates the dish.
To serve, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for a pop of color and crunch. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Pair it with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that is sure to impress.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Cut 1 lb/450g chicken breast/thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Mix 1/2 tsp grated ginger, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 2 tbsp flour with the chicken and marinate for 30 mins.
Combine 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1.5 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp sesame paste, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1/2 cup water, and 1 tbsp cornstarch to make the sauce.
Lightly toast 1 tbsp sesame seeds to enhance its flavor.
On medium-high heat, pan fry the marinated chicken in some oil.
Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure the chicken browns well.
Pan fry until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can be cooked further in the sauce if needed.
Set aside the fried chicken pieces once cooked.
Thinly slice 3 scallions/spring onions.
Mince 1 tbsp garlic.
Stir fry the scallion whites and garlic until fragrant.
Add the sauce mixture to the pan and simmer.
Tip: Taste and adjust the sauce to your liking once it thickens.
Add the fried chicken and 2 tsp toasted sesame oil to the sauce and mix well.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and scallion greens.
Serve sesame chicken with steamed rice and veggies for a delicious meal!
Ingredients
Ingredient: Soy
→ Substitution: Coconut Aminos
Ingredient: Sesame
→ Substitution: Sunflower Seeds
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
Got a Recipe Question? Ask Away!
Interesting Tidbits
- •Marinating chicken helps to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- •Toasting sesame seeds before adding them to the dish enhances their nutty flavor.
- •Using a mix of light and dark soy sauce adds depth to the sauce.
- •Chicken thighs take longer to cook than chicken breasts due to their higher fat content.
