Homemade Sesame Chicken

Name: Homemade Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; ½ cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish); 3 green onions, chopped

Author: Lora

Published: July 23, 2025

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Introduction to Homemade Sesame Chicken

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, your days are often packed with to-do lists that could rival a novel. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this delightful recipe for Homemade Sesame Chicken. It’s the perfect antidote to a hectic schedule, easily whipping up in just 30 minutes. This dish isn’t just quick; it offers a burst of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance! Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends, homemade sesame chicken is a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Sesame Chicken

One of the best parts of this Homemade Sesame Chicken is how simple it is to make. Seriously, in just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Asian restaurant! The crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce is a hit for everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in some veggies when you serve it with rice or noodles!

Ingredients for Homemade Sesame Chicken

Let’s break down the ingredients for this tasty dish! Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered with all the essentials you’ll need to create your Homemade Sesame Chicken. The exact measurements are available at the bottom of the article for your convenience.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, they make the perfect canvas for all those amazing flavors.
Cornstarch: This little gem gives the chicken that crispy exterior we all crave. It’s a game-changer in frying.
Vegetable oil: Essential for cooking the chicken until golden brown. You can swap it with canola or sunflower oil if you prefer.
Soy sauce: Adds a wonderful umami flavor, giving your dish that authentic taste. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory elements perfectly. You can adjust its quantity based on your sweetness preference.
Rice vinegar: A splash of brightness, adding acidity to cut through the richness of the sauce. Apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute if you don’t have rice vinegar on hand.
Sesame oil: Just a touch adds a lovely, nutty flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced, these aromatics give depth and flavor, elevating your dish from good to absolutely delicious.
Sesame seeds: A nutritious and crunchy topping! Sprinkle them generously to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Green onions: These add a pop of color and a mild oniony taste. Chopped finely, they make a lovely garnish.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a meal that not only satisfies but also impresses. Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Homemade Sesame Chicken

Ready to dive into the delicious world of Homemade Sesame Chicken? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! I promise you, this method is straightforward and fun. With each step, you’ll see how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. Here we go!

Step 1: Prep Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This makes cooking quick and ensures they soak in all the flavors. Place them in a big bowl while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Coat with Cornstarch

Now, sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken pieces. Toss gently until every piece is fully coated. This step is crucial! It’s the secret behind achieving that crispy exterior everyone loves.

Step 3: Heat Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough so that the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan. The sound is music to my ears!

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for that golden brown color, which means they’re cooked through and ready to shine!

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine at this point!

Step 6: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Now it’s time for the magic! Add the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir to combine everything well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. You’re creating a dreamy sauce that will coat the chicken!

Step 7: Return Chicken

Toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Give it a good stir to ensure every piece is well coated in the luscious sauce. This is where the flavor really comes alive!

Step 8: Add Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the chicken. Toss it all together once more. It’s a small step, but those seeds add a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.

Step 9: Cook Briefly

Allow the chicken to cook for another minute or two. This ensures everything is heated through and nicely coated with the sauce. Just a bit longer, and you’re almost there!

Step 10: Garnish

Finally, remove your skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and a few extra sesame seeds before serving. The colors pop, making this dish look as good as it tastes!

And voila! You’ve just made Homemade Sesame Chicken. I can hardly wait for you to dig in!

Tips for Success

Make sure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed to achieve crispiness.
Taste the sauce before adding the chicken; adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.
Serve immediately for the best texture, as the chicken can soften if it sits too long.
Consider using a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.

Equipment Needed for Homemade Sesame Chicken

Skillet or Wok: A large skillet works great, but a wok can give you extra space for tossing.
Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for prepping your chicken and fresh ingredients.
Mixing Bowls: Use these for tossing your chicken with cornstarch and sauce.
Spatula or Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken while cooking.

Variations of Homemade Sesame Chicken

Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a spoonful of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a delicious gluten-free experience.
Honey Substitutes: Use maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re looking for a different sweetener that still delivers on flavor.
Low-Calorie Version: Use skinless chicken thighs, air fry instead of pan-frying, and replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener.
Serve Over Different Bases: Enjoy this sesame chicken over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even a bed of sautéed spinach for a varied dining experience.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Sesame Chicken

Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up that delicious sauce.
Noodles: Pair with lo main or rice noodles for a delightful twist.
Steamed Veggies: Add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for a nutritious crunch.
Drink: Enjoy with a light, refreshing jasmine tea or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
Presentation: Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions for an attractive finish!

FAQs about Homemade Sesame Chicken

As fellow cooking enthusiasts, you might have a few questions about my Homemade Sesame Chicken. I’m here to help! Here are some common queries and my answers to set you on the right path.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your chicken completely before cutting and coating it with cornstarch. This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.

What can I substitute for honey if I’m out?

No honey? No problem! Maple syrup or agave nectar work beautifully as alternatives, keeping that sweet balance in your sauce.

Can I make homemade sesame chicken ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and the sauce separately in advance. Just keep them in the refrigerator, and combine them right before serving for optimal taste.

Is homemade sesame chicken healthy?

This dish comes together with wholesome ingredients, and you can make it healthier by using skinless chicken breasts and adjusting the sauce’s sugar content. Pairing it with veggies makes it even better!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover homemade sesame chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It should maintain its flavor for up to three days. Just reheat gently to keep it delicious!

Final Thoughts on Homemade Sesame Chicken

Creating Homemade Sesame Chicken has been such a joyful culinary adventure for me, and I truly hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen too! This dish captures the essence of comfort food, blending delightful flavors and ease of preparation. Plus, it’s a surefire way to impress family and friends alike. Imagine the smiles around the table as they savor each bite! With its crispy chicken enveloped in a sweet and savory sauce, this meal is a celebration in itself. So, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every moment of creating this delicious masterpiece!