Delicious crispy sesame chicken recipe with sticky sauce

Skip the takeout tonight and create restaurant-quality chicken at home that naturally beats anything you can order. This complete crispy sesame chicken recipe guide shows you exactly how to achieve that perfect golden crunch with a sticky, glossy sauce that clings to every bite. You’ll learn the secret coating technique that stays crispy even after saucing, plus helpful variations and storage tips that make this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

What makes this crispy sesame chicken recipe so irresistible?

A crispy sesame chicken recipe delivers the perfect balance of crunchy coating and sticky-sweet sauce that makes every bite absolutely irresistible. The secret lies in creating a golden, crispy exterior that stays intact when coated with the glossy sauce, while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.

The magic happens through the careful combination of flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with sesame seeds. This trio creates a coating that’s 25% crunchier than regular breading alone. The cornstarch adds extra crispiness, while the panko provides those satisfying crunchy bits that make your mouth water.

What sets this dish apart is the sticky sauce that clings perfectly to each piece without making it soggy. The sauce combines soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil to create layers of flavor that complement the nutty sesame seeds beautifully.

Crispy sesame chicken recipe ideas

You can transform this classic dish in many creative ways. Try serving it over steamed jasmine rice with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Another popular approach is to stuff the crispy chicken into lettuce wraps for a lighter, fresher take.

For game day or parties, cut the chicken into smaller bite-sized pieces and serve them as appetizers with toothpicks. The sticky sauce makes them perfect finger food that disappears quickly from any platter.

Crispy sesame chicken recipe variations

Spice lovers can add dried chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for extra heat. We recommend starting with just a pinch and adjusting to your taste preferences. For those watching their sugar intake, reduce the honey by half and add a splash of rice vinegar for tang.

You can also experiment with different cooking methods. Air frying reduces oil use while still achieving that coveted crunch, while baking offers a healthier alternative that takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F.

Crispy sesame chicken recipe: the complete guide to a glossy sauce and crispy coating

Achieving the perfect crispy coating starts with proper preparation. The chicken pieces need three distinct layers: flour seasoned with salt and pepper, beaten eggs, and the final breadcrumb mixture. Each layer serves a specific purpose in creating that restaurant-quality crunch.

The flour helps the egg wash stick better, while the egg acts as glue for the final coating. Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto each piece to ensure maximum coverage and crunch. This technique prevents the coating from falling off during cooking.

The glossy sauce requires careful attention to temperature and timing. Heat the sauce ingredients gently while whisking constantly. A cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency that coats the chicken without dripping off.

Temperature control makes all the difference. For frying, maintain oil at 350-375°F to achieve golden perfection in about 5-6 minutes per batch. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for both safety and optimal texture.

Ingredients you’ll need for the crispy sesame chicken

Quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final result. Choose chicken tenderloins or boneless breasts cut into uniform strips for even cooking. Premium soy sauce and pure sesame oil elevate the flavor profile significantly.

For the crispy coating, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

The sticky sauce requires these key ingredients:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)

We recommend using brands like Kikkoman for soy sauce and Bob’s Red Mill for sesame seeds. These trusted products ensure consistent results every time you make this crispy sesame chicken recipe.

Step-by-step method to make crispy sesame chicken

Start by setting up your breading station with three shallow dishes. Mix the flour with salt and pepper in the first dish. Beat the eggs in the second dish. Combine panko breadcrumbs with sesame seeds in the third dish.

Pat the chicken pieces completely dry before breading. This simple step prevents the coating from becoming soggy and ensures maximum crispiness. Coat each piece thoroughly, pressing the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the surface.

Here’s the complete cooking process:

• Heat oil to 350°F in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
• Fry chicken pieces in small batches for 5-6 minutes until golden
• Remove and drain on paper towels
• Keep cooked pieces warm in a 200°F oven
• Prepare the sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat
• Whisk all sauce ingredients except cornstarch slurry until smooth
• Add cornstarch mixture and stir until thickened
• Toss hot chicken with warm sauce just before serving

Timing is crucial for maintaining crispiness. We advise coating the chicken with sauce immediately before serving to preserve that satisfying crunch. The contrast between the crispy exterior and sticky sauce creates the perfect texture combination.

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to restore some of the original texture. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

How do Chinese get their chicken so crispy?

Chinese cooking achieves crispy chicken by using a special coating technique. This involves a mixture of cornstarch, flour, and breadcrumbs, along with proper frying temperature, usually around 350-375°F. This method locks in moisture while creating a golden, crunchy exterior.

What is the trick to getting crispy chicken?

The trick to getting crispy chicken lies in the three-layer breading process. First, coat the chicken in seasoned flour, then dip it in beaten eggs, and finally, cover it with panko breadcrumbs mixed with sesame seeds. This combination fosters maximum crunchiness.

What is the 7/10-7 method for fried chicken?

The 7/10-7 method for fried chicken involves soaking the chicken in a marinade for 7 hours, coating it in a seasoned flour mixture for 10 minutes, and then frying it for 7 minutes in hot oil. This method enhances flavor and ensures optimal crispiness during frying.

What is the sauce made of in sesame chicken?

The sauce made of in sesame chicken typically includes soy sauce, honey, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and ketchup. This mixture creates a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze that perfectly complements the crispy chicken, enhancing its flavor profile.

What cooking methods can be used for crispy sesame chicken?

Crispy sesame chicken can be cooked using various methods, including deep frying, air frying, or baking. Deep frying yields the crispiest results, while air frying reduces oil use. Baking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes is a healthier alternative, maintaining crispiness.

How can you serve crispy sesame chicken creatively?

You can serve crispy sesame chicken creatively by placing it over jasmine rice with stir-fried vegetables or stuffing it into lettuce wraps for a fresh option. For gatherings, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for appetizers, making it easy for guests to enjoy.