Homemade Sesame Chicken Recipe

If you’re a fan of Chinese takeout, chances are sesame chicken is one of your go-to orders. Sweet, savory, sticky, and slightly crispy—it’s a comforting classic. But the restaurant version is often deep-fried and packed with sugar and sodium. This homemade sesame chicken version is healthier, uses real ingredients, and still satisfies those takeout cravings.

🔪 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes).

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• In a bowl, whisk the egg. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, a pinch of salt, and pepper.

• Dip the chicken into the egg, then dredge in the cornstarch-flour mix, pressing gently so the coating sticks.

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Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

You can pan-fry, air-fry, or bake the chicken depending on how healthy you want to go.

Option A: Pan-Fry (Classic Texture)

• Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

• Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).

• Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Option B: Bake (Lighter Version)

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Place the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

• Spray lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Option C: Air Fry (Crispy & Healthy)

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

• Place chicken in a single layer in the basket.

• Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Sauce

• In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

• Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.

• Once it starts to bubble, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water).

• Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency.

• Turn off the heat and stir in sesame seeds.

Step 4: Combine Chicken & Sauce

• Add the cooked chicken to the sauce or pour the sauce over the chicken in a skillet.

• Toss well to coat every piece thoroughly in the sticky sesame glaze.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with more sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

• Serve immediately over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried noodles.

🍚 What to Serve With Sesame Chicken

Classic Sides:

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice

• Fried Rice with peas, carrots, and egg

• Vegetable Lo Mein or rice noodles

Healthy Options:

• Cauliflower Rice

• Steamed Broccoli or Bok Choy

• Asian Slaw with vinegar sesame dressing

Drinks:

• Sparkling water with lime

• Jasmine tea

• Light white wine like Riesling or Pinot Grigio

🔄 Variations & Customizations

Healthier:

• Bake or air-fry instead of pan-frying

• Use low-sodium tamari and reduce added sugar

• Add steamed veggies like snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers

Gluten-Free:

• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce

• Substitute flour with rice flour or almond flour

Spicy Sesame Chicken:

• Add sriracha or extra red chili flakes to the sauce

• Top with sliced jalapeños

Vegetarian:

• Substitute chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh

🧠 Health Benefits

1. Controlled Ingredients

Making it at home lets you reduce excess sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats found in takeout.

2. Lean Protein

Using chicken breast or baked tofu gives you clean, high-quality protein.

3. Good Fats

Sesame oil and limited amounts of avocado or olive oil add healthy monounsaturated fats.

4. Antioxidants

Garlic and ginger both have immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory properties.

🥢 Cultural Origins of Sesame Chicken

Sesame chicken is a staple in American-Chinese cuisine, often found in buffets and takeout menus. It likely evolved from traditional Chinese dishes such as General Tso’s Chicken or Tang Cu Ji Pian, but adapted with a sweeter glaze and crunchy texture to match Western tastes.

It is not traditionally Chinese but a beloved comfort dish in the U.S., often enjoyed alongside egg rolls, fried rice, and fortune cookies.

💡 Tips for Success

• Cut Chicken Evenly: Helps cook evenly and absorb sauce better.

• Double the Sauce: If you like extra saucy dishes or want leftovers.

• Toast Sesame Seeds: Lightly toast before adding for deeper flavor.

• Balance the Sweetness: Adjust honey and sugar to suit your taste.

🍽️ Fun Serving Ideas

• Serve in a pineapple bowl for a tropical flair.

• Make sesame chicken lettuce wraps for a low-carb lunch.

• Use leftovers in a stir-fry with vegetables and noodles.

💬 Final Thoughts

This homemade sesame chicken is all about balance—sweet, salty, tangy, crispy, and comforting. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but can absolutely be part of a healthy, well-rounded meal when made with the right ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with the goodness of homemade.