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Easy Sesame Chicken

A simple, home-cooked version of the popular takeout dish, featuring tender, marinated chicken pieces fried to golden perfection and tossed in a sweet and tangy sesame sauce.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 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)
  • 1 stalk green onion, sliced (greens and whites separated)
  • Oil (as needed for cooking and frying)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken by mixing with ¼ cup water, baking soda, and kosher salt in a bowl until absorbed.
  2. Add eggs, cornstarch, and oil to the chicken mixture and combine well.
  3. Heat about 2 to 3 inches of oil in a wok or tall pan to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Prepare the sesame sauce by combining ketchup, water, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce in a bowl.
  5. Fry the marinated chicken in hot oil for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown; remove and drain.
  6. Return fried chicken to the oil for a second fry for 5 to 6 minutes until deep golden brown; drain on paper towels.
  7. In a wok, add oil and stir-fry the white parts of sliced green onions for about 10 to 15 seconds.
  8. Pour in the prepared sauce, increase the heat, and stir until it thickens.
  9. Add fried chicken to sauce and toss to coat; serve hot over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onion greens.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight. You can also add vegetables for extra nutrition.

  • Author: jessica-baker
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: sesame chicken, easy recipe, family meal