The ultimate guide to deep fried sesame chicken: secrets to golden-brown bliss

Craving a tantalizing dish that combines the crunch of fried chicken with the sweet and savory notes of sesame sauce? Look no further than deep-fried sesame chicken! This delectable dish is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, enjoyed for its crispy exterior, tender interior, and addictive flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the secrets of how to deep fry sesame chicken, ensuring that you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds

For the Sesame Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and sesame oil. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Add the beaten egg and gently stir to coat the chicken. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors and become more tender.

3. Heat the Oil:

Pour the vegetable oil into a large Dutch oven or deep fryer and heat it over medium-high heat to 375°F (190°C).

4. Fry the Chicken:

Working in batches, carefully drop the marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

5. Toast the Sesame Seeds:

In a small skillet, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

6. Make the Sesame Sauce:

In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

7. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

Transfer the fried chicken to a large bowl and pour the sesame sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with the toasted sesame seeds.

Tips for Success:

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken pieces with the cornstarch and flour mixture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Serve the sesame chicken immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Variations:

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Sriracha sauce to the sesame sauce for a kick of heat.
• Honey Garlic Sesame Chicken: Replace the rice vinegar in the sesame sauce with honey and add a tablespoon of minced garlic for a sweeter and more garlicky flavor.
• Orange Sesame Chicken: Add a tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice and a teaspoon of orange zest to the sesame sauce for a bright and citrusy twist.

The Final Dish

Deep-fried sesame chicken is a culinary masterpiece that combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with the addictive sweetness of sesame sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With careful preparation and a few simple steps, you can easily recreate the magic of restaurant-quality sesame chicken in your own kitchen.

Beyond the Recipe: Exploring the World of Sesame Chicken

Origins and History:

Sesame chicken is a relatively recent addition to Chinese cuisine, believed to have originated in the Sichuan province in the 1980s. It quickly gained popularity in both China and the United States, becoming a beloved dish in Chinese restaurants worldwide.

Cultural Significance:

Sesame chicken is often associated with Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity due to its golden color and sesame seeds. It is also a popular dish for family gatherings and special occasions.

Health Benefits of Sesame Chicken:

While sesame chicken is not considered a health food, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Sesame seeds are a good source of fiber, calcium, and iron. The chicken provides protein and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to consume sesame chicken in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.

Information You Need to Know

1. What is the best cut of chicken to use for sesame chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most common cut used for sesame chicken. They are lean and tender, making them ideal for frying.

2. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use any type of high-heat oil, such as canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil.

3. How do I store leftover sesame chicken?

Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.