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Easy Sesame Chicken

A delightful dish featuring tender, crispy chicken in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil)
  • Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (light sodium)
  • ½ teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 stalk green onion (cut into thin slices, greens and whites separated)
  • Oil (as needed for cooking and frying)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken thighs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, water, baking soda, and salt. Mix vigorously until the chicken absorbs most of the water. Add the eggs and mix well. Add the cornstarch and combine until there are no dry spots. Finish by adding the oil and mix evenly.
  2. Heat the oil: In a wok or deep pan, add about 2 to 3 inches of oil and heat it to 375°F.
  3. Prepare the sauce: While the oil heats, mix the ketchup, water, sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and dark soy sauce in a bowl. Set aside.
  4. Fry the chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken pieces in the oil one at a time, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 4 to 5 minutes, then let them drain for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
  5. Second fry: Ensure the oil is back at 375°F and fry the chicken again for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and let the pieces drain on paper towels or a rack.
  6. Make the sauce: In a wok or large pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Stir-fry the white parts of the sliced green onions for 10 to 15 seconds. Pour in the sauce and increase the heat. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
  7. Toss the chicken and serve: Once the sauce is thick and glossy, add the fried chicken pieces and stir until well coated. Serve right away with white rice or fried rice, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onion tops if desired.

Notes

For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir-fry with diced peppers.

  • Author: aymane-mouraigmail-com-2
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Paleo

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: sesame chicken, Asian cuisine, quick dinner