Easy Sesame Chicken

Update : October 10, 2025

If you’re looking for a delicious, home-cooked meal that is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, Easy Sesame Chicken is the perfect choice. This dish features tender, marinated chicken pieces that are fried until golden brown and then tossed in a mouthwatering sesame sauce. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this sesame chicken will surely become a family favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this Easy Sesame Chicken recipe. First and foremost, it brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your dining table without needing any special skills or ingredients. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a popular takeout dish from the comfort of your home.

Making sesame chicken at home also allows you to customize the flavors and proportions to suit your taste. You can adjust the sweetness, add more heat, or even toss in extra vegetables for a nutritious twist. Plus, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings, as it cooks up quickly and can be served with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Another great reason to try this recipe is that it is perfect for families. Kids love the crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, making it an ideal dish for picky eaters. It’s a reliable way to introduce your family to new flavors while still keeping dinner fun and enjoyable.

How to Make Easy Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
¼ cup water
½ teaspoon kosher salt (if using fine salt, use a little less)
½ teaspoon baking soda
2 large eggs
½ cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil is fine)
Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
½ cup ketchup
½ cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce (light sodium)
½ teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional to give the sauce a darker color)
1 stalk green onion (cut into thin slices, greens and whites separated)
Oil (as needed for cooking and frying)

Directions:

Marinate the Chicken Thighs

Start by marinating the chicken thighs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ¼ cup of water, baking soda, and kosher salt. Mix vigorously until the chicken mostly absorbs the water. This process helps tenderize the meat.

Once the chicken has absorbed the water, crack in the two eggs and mix until well combined. Next, add ½ cup of cornstarch and stir until there are no dry bits remaining. Finally, mix in 1 tablespoon of oil until evenly incorporated.

Heat the Oil

Grab a wok or a tall pan and pour in about 2 to 3 inches of oil for frying. Heat the oil until it reaches 375°F (190°C). It’s important to get the oil hot enough so the chicken fries quickly and becomes crispy.

Prepare the Sauce

While the oil heats up, prepare the sesame sauce. In a bowl or large measuring cup, combine ½ cup of ketchup, ½ cup of water, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, and ½ teaspoon of dark soy sauce (if you’re using it). Mix well and set it aside. You can make the sauce ahead of time for easier meal prep.

Fry the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken pieces into the oil. Do this one at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown. Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain for 2 to 3 minutes.

After the first fry, make sure the oil temperature is back at 375°F. Place the fried chicken pieces back into the hot oil for a second fry. This step makes the chicken extra crispy! Fry for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until deep golden brown. Remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels or a rack.

Make the Sauce

In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add a little oil and toss in the white parts of the sliced green onions. Stir-fry them for about 10 to 15 seconds, until fragrant.

Give your prepared sauce a quick mix and pour it into the wok. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce bubble and heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and help the cornstarch thicken the sauce evenly.

Toss the Chicken and Serve

When the sauce has thickened and is glossy, add the fried chicken pieces to the wok. Gently toss the chicken in the sauce until each piece is well coated.

Serve it hot, ideally with white rice or fried rice. For a finishing touch, garnish your sesame chicken with toasted sesame seeds and the green parts of the sliced green onions, if you like.

How to Serve Easy Sesame Chicken

Serving Easy Sesame Chicken is as straightforward as making it. Start by placing a generous portion of white rice or fried rice on each plate. Then, ladle a generous helping of the sesame chicken on top of the rice. Make sure to drizzle some sauce over the chicken for extra flavor. Finally, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds and green onion slices for an appealing presentation.

This dish is best served warm, so aim to enjoy it right after cooking. It’s great for family meals or when you have friends over for dinner. If you have leftovers, they will still taste good the next day!

How to Store Easy Sesame Chicken

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Easy Sesame Chicken stores quite well. First, allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can either reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stove, add a little water to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Tips to Make Easy Sesame Chicken

Marination Time: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. This can make your dish even more delicious.
Don’t Overcrowd the Oil: When frying, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of sugar. You can experiment to find your perfect balance.
Add Vegetables: Try tossing in vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to add color and nutrition.

Variation

If you’re looking to change things up, consider these variations:

Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add some heat by incorporating chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce into the sesame sauce.
Baked Version: Instead of frying the chicken, you can bake it in the oven for a healthier twist. Coat the marinated chicken in cornstarch and then bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes or until crispy.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still delivers great flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be less juicy. Thighs are preferable for this recipe as they remain tender and moist.

How long can I store the leftovers?

You can safely store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze Easy Sesame Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so it’s best to store it in sauce to help maintain moisture.

What is the best way to reheat sesame chicken?

The best method to reheat sesame chicken is to use a stovetop pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

With these details, you’re ready to conquer Easy Sesame Chicken in your kitchen today! Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing this meal with loved ones.