master-cooks | Sweet And Spicy Sesame Chicken Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Sesame Chicken is a flavorful dish that balances a perfect blend of sweetness and heat, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy bold flavors. This recipe involves bite-sized pieces of chicken that are first marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey to infuse them with rich, savory undertones. The chicken is then coated in cornstarch for a crispy texture and fried until golden brown. In a separate pan, a sauce is prepared using soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and a hint of chili paste to provide the signature sweet and spicy kick. Once the sauce thickens, the fried chicken pieces are tossed in until they are evenly coated and glistening. The final touch is a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions, adding a nutty flavor and fresh crunch. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, offering a satisfying meal that combines Asian-inspired ingredients with a dynamic taste profile. The result is a delicious, aromatic dish that is both comforting and exciting to the palate.

Gather all the ingredients for the sweet and spicy sesame chicken recipe

For this recipe, you'll require the following ingredients: honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili paste, garlic, sesame seeds, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, eggs, boneless skinless chicken breast, and vegetable oil. If desired, you can also garnish with chopped cilantro, parsley, or green onions, along with additional sesame seeds.

Step 1: Combine the ingredients for the sauce

In a mixing bowl, blend together the honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili paste, minced garlic, and sesame seeds.

Step 2: Add cornstarch

Incorporate 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.

Step 3: Whisk the sauce

Stir until blended and set aside.

Step 4: Combine the ingredients for the breading

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, the leftover tablespoon of cornstarch, salt, and black pepper, and whisk together.

Step 5: Whisk the eggs

Beat the eggs and put them aside.

Step 6: Cut the chicken breast

Chop the chicken breast into small, bite-sized chunks.

Step 7: Add the oil to the skillet

Pour the vegetable oil into a heated skillet.

Step 8: Dredge the chicken

In batches, coat the chicken first in the eggs and then in the flour.

Step 9: Cook the chicken

When the oil is heated, place the chicken in the skillet and sauté until it turns golden brown, approximately 10 minutes.

Step 10: Add the sauce

Drizzle the sauce over the chicken and mix until every piece is evenly coated.

Step 11: Transfer to a serving dish

The sauce will rapidly thicken in about a minute. Take it off the heat and place the chicken onto a serving platter.

Can I make this chicken in the oven or air fryer?

You can easily prepare this recipe using either an oven or an air fryer. For the oven method, begin by preheating it to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture and then in the flour, arrange it on the tray, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. After that, drizzle the sauce over the chicken and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken.

If you prefer the air fryer, first coat the chicken pieces in the egg and then in the flour mixture, placing them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, then remove them from the fryer and toss them in the sauce. Line the basket with parchment paper and return the coated chicken. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce is thick and adheres to the chicken pieces.

How can I customize and serve sweet and spicy chicken?

One more reason to adore this recipe is its flexibility; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have available. If you prefer a spicier flavor, simply add more chili paste or incorporate chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce. Instead of soy sauce, feel free to use tamari or a soy-free substitute like coconut aminos. You can replace honey with brown or regular white sugar for a more straightforward sweetness, or for a richer flavor, consider using molasses.

Serve the chicken over steamed or fried rice or noodles for a complete meal. For a lighter option, pair it with stir-fried or steamed vegetables—chopped bell peppers, broccoli, or sugar snap peas all work wonderfully. Alternatively, you can add the vegetables to the chicken while it cooks, allowing them to simmer together in the sauce. Cauliflower rice also makes an excellent side dish. If you’re in the mood for simplicity, savor the sweet and spicy sesame chicken on its own, accompanied by a glass of chilled, dry white wine.

Sweet And Spicy Sesame Chicken Recipe