Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken: 3 Secrets

Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken has been my go-to for a quick weeknight meal since I first tried it years ago. I remember my first attempt at making this dish at home, and while it wasn’t perfect, the promise of that sticky, sweet glaze over perfectly crunchy chicken was enough to keep me experimenting. Now, I’ve perfected this recipe for that delightful combination of sweet and crispy chicken that rivals any takeout. The aroma of toasted sesame seeds and the satisfying crunch with every bite will have your whole family asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

This dish is a winner for so many reasons! You’ll love the incredible balance of flavors, with that perfect sweet and savory profile that always hits the spot. It’s also incredibly fast, making it an easy crispy sesame chicken option for busy weeknights. Plus, using chicken thighs makes it surprisingly budget-friendly without sacrificing taste.

• Amazing sweet and savory taste that satisfies cravings.
• Quick prep and cook time – ready in about 40 minutes!
• A family-friendly meal that picky eaters adore.
• It’s an easy crispy sesame chicken recipe anyone can master.
• Uses common pantry staples, making it affordable.
• Offers a healthier alternative to takeout versions.
• The crispy coating is incredibly addictive.

Ingredients for Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect sesame chicken with crispy coating. I always grab chicken thighs because they stay incredibly moist and tender, even after frying. The baking soda and cornstarch combo is my secret for that extra shatteringly crisp texture that truly elevates this dish.

• 2 pounds chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – this is key for crispiness!
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch – for that irresistible crunch
• 1 tablespoon flavorless oil (like vegetable or canola)
• Sesame seeds for topping, toasted if you have time
• 1/2 cup ketchup – the base of our sweet sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar – adds a nice tang
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – to thicken the sauce
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce for a deeper color
• 1 stalk green onion, thinly sliced (separate green tops and white stems)
• Enough oil for cooking and frying (about 2-3 inches in your pan)

How to Make Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

Making this crispy sweet sesame chicken at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious, takeout-style meal in no time. The double-frying technique is crucial for that ultimate crunch.

1. Step 1: Start by preparing the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks with 1/4 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is coated.
2. Step 2: Add the 2 large eggs to the bowl and mix again until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
3. Step 3: Stir in the 1/2 cup cornstarch until you don’t see any dry powder left. This coating is key to that amazing crispy texture.
4. Step 4: Finally, add 1 tablespoon flavorless oil and stir to coat the chicken pieces evenly. This helps prevent sticking in the hot oil.
5. Step 5: Heat 2 to 3 inches of cooking oil in a high-sided pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Getting the oil temperature right is essential for how to make crispy sesame chicken that’s perfectly cooked.
6. Step 6: While the oil heats, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup white sugar, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce (and the optional dark soy sauce if using). Stir until the sugar and cornstarch are fully dissolved.
7. Step 7: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is lightly golden.
8. Step 8: Remove the chicken from the oil and let it rest on a wire rack or paper towels for 2-3 minutes. This short rest is another important step in how to make crispy sesame chicken.
9. Step 9: Reheat the oil back to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken pieces again for 5-6 minutes until they are deeply golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Drain on a wire rack.
10. Step 10: In the same wok or a large pan, add a tiny dash of oil over medium heat. Sauté the white stems of the green onion for about 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
11. Step 11: Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the onion. Stir constantly over medium-high heat as the sauce thickens and becomes glossy and bubbly.
12. Step 12: Add the double-fried crispy chicken to the thickened sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece beautifully. The sauce should cling perfectly, creating that signature sticky glaze. Enjoy your homemade crispy sweet sesame chicken!

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

Achieving that perfect takeout-style crunch at home is totally doable! Here are a few of my go-to tricks to make sure your crispy sweet sesame chicken is absolutely amazing every single time. These little tips really make a difference in texture and flavor.

• Double-frying is your best friend for maximum crispiness – don’t skip it!
• Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature (375°F) before adding chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches to keep the oil hot.
• Toss the chicken in the sauce *just* before serving to maintain its crispiness.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy sesame chicken?

The real secrets to perfect crispy sesame chicken are the baking soda in the marinade and the double-frying method. These techniques are part of the sesame chicken crispy coating secrets that ensure an incredibly light and shatteringly crisp exterior. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our collection of chicken recipes.

Can I make crispy sweet sesame chicken ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken coating and the sauce ahead of time, but I don’t recommend frying it until you’re ready to serve. The chicken is best enjoyed right after the second fry and tossing in the sauce.

How do I avoid common mistakes with crispy sweet sesame chicken?

The most common pitfall is soggy chicken, which happens if you overcrowd the pan or don’t fry it long enough. To prevent this and answer “why is my sesame chicken not crispy,” always fry in batches and ensure the oil is hot. Also, don’t let the fried chicken sit too long before saucing. For more tips on achieving perfect frying, you can consult Serious Eats’ guide to frying.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

This crispy sweet sesame chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic takeout experience, serve it over fluffy steamed white rice or savory fried rice. The rice soaks up any extra sauce beautifully!

If you’re looking for a more complete meal, consider a crispy chicken stir fry sesame style with plenty of colorful vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas. A side of steamed bok choy or a crisp cucumber salad also offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet, and savory chicken. For a different take on chicken, try our Persian chicken recipe.

Nutrition Facts for Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for this delicious crispy sweet sesame chicken, per serving. It’s a satisfying main course that balances flavor with essential nutrients.

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy chicken options, explore our zucchini noodle chicken alfredo.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

You’ve made a fantastic batch of crispy sweet sesame chicken, and now you’re wondering how to keep that deliciousness for later. For the best results, let the sauced chicken cool completely before storing. This prevents steam from making the coating soggy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes it a perfect option for crispy chicken for dinner sesame later in the week! If you’re looking for other chicken dishes, consider our jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole.

If you want to store it even longer, you can freeze the cooled chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and it should last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the oven is your best friend for bringing back that crispiness. Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and nicely crisped again. Microwaving can make the chicken softer, so I always opt for the oven method! For another great chicken dish, try our teriyaki chicken sheet pan supper.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken

What is crispy sesame chicken?

Crispy sesame chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish featuring bite-sized pieces of chicken that are deep-fried until golden and crunchy. They are then coated in a sweet, tangy, and savory sauce, typically flavored with soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and toasted sesame seeds. It’s a beloved takeout classic for a reason!

What’s the best crispy sesame chicken recipe?

The best crispy sesame chicken recipe focuses on achieving that perfect shatteringly crisp coating and a well-balanced sauce. My secret involves using chicken thighs, a baking soda marinade, and a double-frying technique. This ensures maximum crunch and juiciness, making it truly irresistible.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but be aware that it tends to dry out more easily than thighs, especially when fried. If you opt for breast meat, try not to overcook it during the frying process. You might also want to slightly reduce the frying time for the second fry to keep it tender.

Why is my sesame chicken not crispy?

If your sesame chicken isn’t crispy, it’s usually due to a few common issues. Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 375°F) before frying and that you’re not overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature. The double-frying method is also crucial; frying the chicken once to cook it and then a second time to crisp it up makes a huge difference.

Variations of Crispy Sweet Sesame Chicken You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are tons of fun ways to switch up this crispy sweet sesame chicken! If you’re craving something a bit different, trying out these variations can add new dimensions to your favorite dish. They’re great for keeping things exciting in the kitchen.

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist on the classic.
• Honey Sesame Glaze: For a sweeter profile, try making a crispy chicken with honey sesame sauce by substituting honey for some of the sugar in the sauce.
• Air Fryer Method: Want a healthier option? You can achieve a great crunch with an air fryer! Toss the coated chicken with a little oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, before tossing with the sauce.
• Ginger-Sesame Infusion: Add freshly grated ginger to the sauce while it simmers for an extra aromatic and zesty flavor. This creates a wonderfully fragrant sweet sesame fried chicken.

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