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Delicious Sesame Chicken photo

Sesame Chicken

This Sesame Chicken is a quick, easy, and delightful twist on a takeout classic that's bursting with flavor!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 Tbsp finely minced garlic
  • 1 Tbsp finely minced, peeled fresh ginger
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth divided
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts diced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch for coating
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp white or black pepper
  • 3 Tbsp extra-light olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 Tbsp white sesame seeds
  • 3 large green onions sliced

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Wok or large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Stepwise Method
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and 1/4 cup of the chicken broth. Set aside.
  2. In another bowl, combine the diced chicken with 1 Tbsp of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until slightly frothy. Add the marinated chicken to the egg whites followed by the remaining 1/4 cup of cornstarch. Stir until all the chicken pieces are well-coated.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  5. In the same wok, add the toasted sesame oil. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the prepared honey-soy sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the wok, tossing it in the sauce until evenly coated. If needed, you can add a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  8. Garnish your Sesame Chicken with white sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a crunchier texture, add fresh vegetables such as snap peas or bell peppers.
  • This dish can be made ahead; store the chicken and sauce separately.
  • To make it vegan, substitute chicken with firm tofu and honey with maple syrup.