Sweet and Spicy Sesame Chicken
Sweet and Spicy Sesame Chicken combines crispy chicken with a glossy, flavorful chili glaze.Honey and brown sugar create the irresistible sweetness in the sauce.Soy sauce and sesame oil add rich savory and nutty flavors.Garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar provide aromatic depth and brightness.Chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes give the dish a delicious spicy finish.Serve it with steamed rice and vegetables for an easy homemade takeout-style meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- ¾ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
For the Sweet and Spicy Sesame Sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced, optional
- Fresh cilantro, optional
Instructions
- Place the chicken in a large bowl and add soy sauce, sesame oil, egg, garlic powder, and white pepper.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and toss until every piece is evenly coated.
- Heat approximately 2 inches of neutral oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry for approximately 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and cornstarch.
- Heat a large wok or skillet over medium heat.
- Bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously.
- Avoid cooking the chicken in the sauce for too long, as the coating can become soft.
- Sprinkle in half of the toasted sesame seeds and toss gently.
- Garnish with the remaining sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and fresh chili if desired.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are especially juicy: They work wonderfully for this recipe.
- Chicken breast is suitable too: Cut it evenly and avoid overcooking.
- Cornstarch creates crispiness: It produces a light and crunchy coating.
- Fry in batches: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature.
- Use toasted sesame oil: A little goes a long way.
- Control the heat: Chili garlic sauce varies in spiciness between brands.
- Don't overcook the sauce: Honey can become overly thick or caramelized.
- Toss just before serving: This keeps the chicken as crisp as possible.