Crispy Sesame Chicken

A delicious crunch fills the air as you bite into each piece of crispy sesame chicken, perfectly glazed with a sweet and savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe, taking just about 30 minutes, works wonders for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The golden chicken, enveloped in a sesame glaze, will have you reaching for seconds.

Crispy sesame chicken is ideal for busy families or anyone craving a tasty homemade meal. Prepare it for a satisfying weeknight dinner, or save leftovers in the fridge for a delicious lunch the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken is brilliantly crispy on the outside while tender and juicy inside.
• The quick frying technique results in a delightful texture without a heavy coating.
• It’s a 30-minute meal, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates a memorable flavor profile.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for an unforgettable dish.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

For Serving

• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• Cooked rice, for serving

Use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Replace chicken breast with thighs for extra juiciness.
• Use agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
• Switch rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier coating.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your meal.

Season chicken

1. In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for the best flavor.

Dredge chicken

2. Dredge chicken in cornstarch, then dip into beaten eggs. This double coating is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Fry chicken

3. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden and cooked through. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side; avoid overcrowding the pan.

Make glaze

4. In another bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger to make the glaze. Whisk until fully integrated for a smooth consistency.

Toss chicken

5. Toss the fried chicken in the sesame glaze. Ensure every piece is coated evenly for maximum flavor.

Garnish

6. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. This adds not only flavor but also a nice visual appeal.

Serve

7. Serve over cooked rice. This will balance out the flavors and soak up the delicious glaze.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, as the coating will become soggy upon thawing.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F for optimal frying.
• Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and avoid sogginess.
• Toss the chicken in the glaze immediately after frying for a stickier finish.
• Finish with fresh chopped green onions for added color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside crispy egg rolls for a fun family dinner.
• Enjoy as part of a homemade Asian-themed feast.