Craving chinese takeout? learn how to cook sesame chicken like a pro

Sesame chicken, a beloved dish of Chinese cuisine, tantalizes taste buds with its crispy exterior and sweet and savory sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you to create this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Chinese rice wine or dry sherry
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, and eggs. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice wine, honey, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and white pepper.
4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Drain the chicken on paper towels and return it to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Add Sesame Seeds: Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or scallions and serve hot with rice or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in cornstarch and eggs.
• Use a neutral-flavored oil for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken, as this will prevent it from getting crispy.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your preference by adding more or less honey.
• For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of chili flakes or red pepper flakes.

Variations:

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Sesame Chicken: Substitute honey for the brown sugar in the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Orange Sesame Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of orange juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist.

Healthier Options:

• Baked Sesame Chicken: Instead of frying, bake the chicken on a greased baking sheet at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Air Fryer Sesame Chicken: Preheat an air fryer to 400°F and cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Sesame Chicken: A Culinary Symphony

Sesame chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you prefer it crispy, spicy, or sweet, this guide will empower you to create a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Chinese cuisine.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for sesame chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

Q: How long can I store leftover sesame chicken?
A: Leftover sesame chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What is a good side dish to serve with sesame chicken?
A: Sesame chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.