There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary; this Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce is the perfect embodiment of that magic. Picture this: the kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of sesame and garlic as the chicken turns golden brown in the oven. You won’t believe how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave homemade flavors without the fuss.
When I first tackled this recipe, I was on the lookout for something that would wow my family without keeping me chained to the stove. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy Panko, and a luscious sesame sauce is a crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for everything from casual dinners to impressing guests. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with any side you’d like, whether that’s steamed veggies or a fluffy bowl of rice. Ready to take your taste buds on a delicious adventure? Let’s dive in!
Why is Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce exceptional?
Flavor Explosion: The rich sesame sauce, combined with garlic and ginger, elevates the crispy chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with steamed veggies, rice, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal that suits any occasion.
Crispy Perfection: Utilizing Panko breadcrumbs ensures that every bite is crunchy and satisfying, while the tender chicken remains juicy.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe guarantees compliments at the table! Don’t forget to check out our guide on how to make the perfect sides to accompany your chicken!
Crispy Sesame Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to impress with this flavorful dish!
For the Chicken
• 1 1/2 lb. chicken tenders or cutlets – Use tender cuts for juicy bites that are easy to cook.
• 2 large eggs, whisked – This helps the breadcrumbs cling perfectly for a crispy finish.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – A light dusting to help the egg adhere to the chicken.
• 1/2 tsp. salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp. pepper – Adds a subtle kick to each crunchy piece.
For the Coating
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs – Ensures a delightful crunch that elevates your Crispy Sesame Chicken.
• 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds – Provides an aromatic nutty flavor and appealing texture.
For the Sauce
• 1/3 cup soy sauce – The salty foundation for the rich flavor of the sauce.
• 2 Tbsp. canola oil – Keeps the sauce smooth and adds a pleasant richness.
• 2 Tbsp. sesame oil – Intensifies the sesame flavor, making each bite irresistible.
• 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar – Balances the savory elements with a touch of acidity.
• 1 Tbsp. brown sugar or honey – Adds a hint of sweetness to round out the sauce.
• 1 tsp. fresh ginger, minced – Brings warmth and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tsp. fresh garlic, minced – Invokes a savory aroma that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• 1 tsp. chili garlic sauce – Delivers a hint of heat for those who love a bit of spice.
• 1/4 tsp. salt and pepper, or to taste – Always adjust to fit your palate.
For Thickening
• 1 Tbsp. cornstarch – Forms a luscious glaze when mixed with the sauce.
• 1 Tbsp. water – Helps dissolve the cornstarch for a smoother sauce.
Garnish
• Green onions (optional) – Adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish before serving.
How to Make Crispy Sesame Chicken
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top. Lightly spray everything with non-stick spray—this helps achieve that golden crispiness!
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Prepare the dredging station by setting up three shallow dishes: mix flour, salt, and pepper in the first; whisk your eggs in the second; and blend Panko breadcrumbs with sesame seeds in the third.
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Coat each chicken tender by first dipping it in the flour mixture, then submerging it in the egg, and finally pressing it into the Panko blend. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re well spaced apart.
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Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and their internal temperature hits 165°F for that juicy perfection.
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Air fry alternatively by cooking the chicken at 400°F for roughly 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re crisped to perfection and safely cooked inside.
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Whisk all sauce ingredients together in a small bowl while the chicken bakes, uniting the savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
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Simmer the sauce by pouring it into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until it comes to a simmer. Mix cornstarch with water in a ramekin, then whisk this into the sauce until it thickens up—add more water if you need a thinner consistency!
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Brush the sticky-sweet sauce over the baked chicken, then sprinkle additional sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve the dish immediately with your favorite sides for a feast!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Sesame Chicken
Perfect Dredging: Use one hand for wet ingredients and the other for dry to avoid a messy clumping of flour and breadcrumbs.
Panko Magic: Opt for fresh Panko breadcrumbs as they give a superior crunch to the Crispy Sesame Chicken instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s baking to ensure it doesn’t overcook; golden brown is the goal for both flavor and moisture.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, slowly whisk in a bit of water until it reaches your desired consistency before brushing it on the chicken.
Versatile Sides: Pair with rice, noodles, or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal that balances the crispy chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prep the chicken tenders by coating them with flour, egg, and Panko breadcrumbs up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess. Additionally, you can prepare the sesame sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply pop the chicken in the oven or air fryer (directly from the fridge) and heat until golden brown and crispy. This way, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that’s just as delicious and ready with minimal effort!
Crispy Sesame Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful dish to fit your tastes and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add an extra teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or incorporate sliced jalapeños into your sauce for a fiery twist! The punch of heat can turn this dish into a true flavor adventure.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the breadcrumb mix for an aromatic layer that adds freshness to every bite.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or tempeh, following the same coating process for a delicious plant-based alternative. Both absorb flavors wonderfully and offer great texture!
- Nutty Flavor: Roasted peanuts or cashews can be crushed and added to your Panko for a delightful crunch and rich nuttiness that complements the sesame beautifully.
- Sweet-Sour Sauce: Replace the brown sugar with pineapple juice or use a store-bought sweet and sour sauce for a unique, tangy twist. Perfect for those who love fruity flavors!
- Baked Veggies: For a nutritious addition, coat seasonal vegetables like zucchini or broccoli in the same breadcrumb mixture and bake alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
- Thai-Inspired: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk into the sauce for a creamy, tropical twist on traditional flavors that will transport your taste buds!
Experiment with these variations to enjoy the endless possibilities of crispy deliciousness!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Sesame Chicken
Room Temperature: Consume leftover Crispy Sesame Chicken within 2 hours of cooking to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
Fridge: Store covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through—this keeps the chicken crispy!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
What to Serve with Crispy Sesame Chicken?
Picture a dining table filled with delightful sides that complement the tender, crispy goodness of your chicken while enhancing every bite with contrasting flavors and textures.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This lightly aromatic rice soaks up the delicious sesame sauce, offering a fluffy base for your flavorful chicken.
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Stir-Fried Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli provides balance to the sweetness of the sesame sauce, creating a gorgeous color contrast on your plate.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch from thinly sliced cucumbers with a light vinegar dressing adds a crisp, cool element that pairs wonderfully with the warm chicken.
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Sesame Noodles: Slurpable noodles tossed in sesame sauce carry forward the dish’s theme while adding a delightful chewy texture to enjoy with every forkful.
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Miso Soup: This comforting broth enhances the dining experience, offering warmth and umami flavors that harmonize nicely with the crispy chicken.
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Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh herbs creates a protein-packed side that complements the chicken’s succulent nature, making the meal wholesome and filling.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots contrast deliciously with the savory notes of the dish, rounding out the meal with a touch of sweetness.
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Chilled Green Tea: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, leaving you ready for another bite of your crispy sesame chicken.
Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken tenders are fresh?
When selecting chicken tenders, look for a vibrant pink color and no dark spots or signs of discoloration. The texture should be firm, and if it has any odor, it’s best to avoid it.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce fresh, store it covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crunchiness, I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze the chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze your Crispy Sesame Chicken, first allow it to cool completely. Then, place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal taste.
What do I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Start by whisking in a small amount of water, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s still too dense, continue adding water and mixing—this will help create a smooth, pourable sauce that blends perfectly over the chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
The Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce contains common allergens such as soy (from soy sauce) and eggs. For those with allergies, you can substitute a soy sauce alternative, like tamari, for gluten-free needs. Always check labels and adjust ingredients according to your dietary restrictions.
How can I keep my chicken extra crispy after cooking?
To ensure your chicken remains crispy, avoid stacking the pieces when they’re done cooking. Place the chicken on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet so the air can circulate around it. If you need to wait before serving, keep it in a warm oven set to about 200°F until you’re ready to enjoy!
Crispy Sesame Chicken with Sesame Sauce You’ll Crave Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top. Lightly spray everything with non-stick spray.
- Prepare the dredging station by setting up three shallow dishes: mix flour, salt, and pepper in the first; whisk your eggs in the second; and blend Panko breadcrumbs with sesame seeds in the third.
- Coat each chicken tender by first dipping it in the flour mixture, then submerging it in the egg, and finally pressing it into the Panko blend. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and internal temperature hits 165°F.
- Air fry alternatively at 400°F for roughly 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Whisk all sauce ingredients together in a small bowl while the chicken bakes.
- Pour the sauce into a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until it simmers. Mix cornstarch with water and whisk into the sauce until it thickens.
- Brush the sauce over the baked chicken, then sprinkle additional sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.
