Description
This Crispy Sesame Chicken combines tender, golden-battered chicken bites with a luscious, sweet-and-savory sesame sauce. The perfect harmony of flavors, from the nutty aroma of sesame oil to the gentle heat of crushed red pepper, makes it irresistible.
Whether you’re recreating your favorite takeout meal or indulging in a homemade treat, this recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or family dinners. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and delicious experience that beats the takeout box every time.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
Tempura Batter Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 egg whites
- 1/2 cup cold seltzer water
Chicken Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Set aside.
- Make the Tempura Batter: Combine cornstarch, flour, egg whites, and cold seltzer water. Mix until just combined. A slightly lumpy batter is fine.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add crushed red pepper and minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Dip chicken pieces in the batter, then fry in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Toss and Serve: In the wok or skillet with the garlic, add the prepared sauce and fried chicken. Toss to coat and allow the sauce to thicken slightly (about 1–2 minutes).
- Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra sesame seeds. Serve immediately for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes