Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Discover the joy of making your own Crispy Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken at home! This beloved dish balances sweet and savory flavors, combining crispy chicken with a rich sauce and toasted sesame seeds. With easy-to-follow steps, you can customize ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Perfect for any occasion, impress your family and friends with this homemade delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The rich combination of sweet and savory makes every bite a delight.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Customizable Options – Modify ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs easily.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for family dinners, parties, or even meal prep for the week.
• Healthier Alternative – Homemade means you control the ingredients for a healthier version compared to takeout.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Gather these essential items before starting your culinary adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A deep frying pan or wok
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk
• A meat thermometer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan or wok – Ideal for achieving that perfect crispiness while frying.
• Mixing bowl – Essential for combining your marinade and batter effectively.
• Whisk – Helps blend sauces smoothly without lumps.
• Meat thermometer – Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly, avoiding undercooking or overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil, for frying

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

How to Make Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl. Add cornstarch and flour, tossing until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or wok, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to submerge the chicken pieces. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken in batches into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

In a clean pan over low heat, add the fried chicken back in. Pour the sauce over it and toss gently until all pieces are coated evenly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Crispy Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken!

How to Serve Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Serving Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to present this dish for your family and friends.

Pairing with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice complements the sweet and savory sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice: Add vegetables and eggs for a hearty side that adds variety to your meal.

Adding Fresh Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli provides a nutritious balance to the crispy chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with sliced cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar adds a crunchy contrast.

Garnishing Options

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle these on top for an added burst of flavor and color.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Enhance the sesame taste by adding extra seeds as a final touch.

How to Perfect Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Perfecting your Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing excess oil.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your preference by tasting and modifying as you cook.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Complement your homemade Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Fried Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables make a great appetizer.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light, comforting soup that pairs well with savory dishes.
3. Sesame Noodles: Tossed in sesame sauce, these noodles add another layer of flavor.
4. Vegetable Lo Mein: Soft noodles mixed with colorful veggies offer a satisfying addition.
5. Steamed Dumplings: These can be filled with chicken or vegetables for a tasty bite-sized treat.
6. Miso Soup: A warm, umami-rich broth that cleanses the palate beautifully between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken at home can be simple and fun, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome.

• Using the wrong chicken cut – Chicken breast is commonly used for its tenderness. Using thighs may yield different texture and flavor. Choose wisely based on your preference.

• Not marinating long enough – Skipping or shortening the marinating time can lead to less flavorful chicken. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.

• Overcrowding the pan – Cooking too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

• Ignoring the sauce balance – A common mistake is not adjusting the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce. Taste as you go and tweak as needed for a balanced flavor.

• Skipping sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds add essential crunch and flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle them generously before serving for the full experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.

• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken that many home cooks have.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe, providing similar textures and flavors.

What can I use instead of sesame oil?

You can use vegetable oil or olive oil if you prefer. However, sesame oil adds a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I add vegetables to my sesame chicken?

Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Simply stir-fry them along with the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying homemade Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken is an exciting culinary adventure that promises delightful flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!