Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken is a mouth watering dish that combines crispy chicken bites with a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce enhanced by the nutty aroma of toasted sesame seeds. This Asian-inspired recipe offers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it a favourite for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken:
This recipe is quick to make, incredibly flavourful, and versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables. The crispy coating locks in the juiciness of the chicken, while the sweet chili sauce delivers a delicious punch that is both spicy and sweet. Toasted sesame seeds add texture and a rich, nutty finish, elevating the dish to restaurant quality at home.
History:
Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken draws inspiration from Asian stir-fry traditions, where sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours are balanced in one dish. The use of sweet chili sauce is rooted in Thai cuisine, while sesame seeds are a staple in Chinese and Japanese cooking. This fusion has become popular in modern Asian-American restaurants for its vibrant taste and visual appeal.
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Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with cornstarch.
- Fry the Chicken:Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce:In a pan, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and sesame oil. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine:Toss fried chicken in the sauce until fully coated.
- Garnish and Serve:Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and green onions on top. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Fry chicken in small batches for maximum crispiness.
- Chicken thighs give juicier results than chicken breast.
- For a lighter option, bake or air-fry instead of deep-frying.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sweet chili sauce.
Tips for Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken:
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Fry in small batches for even crispiness.
- Adjust sweetness or heat by adding more honey or chili sauce.
-
Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for richer flavour.
FAQ’s for Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken:
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry the chicken in advance and toss it in the sauce just before serving.
Q2: Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q3: What can I serve with Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken?
Steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles work perfectly.
Q4: Is sweet chili sauce very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy with a sweet tang, but you can add chili flakes for more heat.
Q5: Can I use store-bought sesame chicken sauce?
Yes, but adding fresh garlic, honey, and vinegar enhances the flavour.
Conclusion:
Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken is a quick and irresistible meal that packs bold flavor and satisfying texture. The crispy chicken, coated in a sticky sweet-spicy sauce and topped with nutty sesame seeds, is a crowd-pleaser every time. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a weekend feast, it’s a dish you’ll make again and again.