Easy Weeknight Sesame Chicken: A Delicious & Simple Recipe

Sesame chicken is a classic takeout favorite, but who says you can’t enjoy restaurant-quality flavor at home, any night of the week? This recipe brings you a simplified version of this beloved dish, perfect for busy weeknights. Forget the complicated steps and long ingredient lists – this sesame chicken recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with that sweet and savory flavor you crave.

This recipe focuses on ease and accessibility. We’ll use simple pantry staples and streamlined cooking techniques to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe incredibly approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive in!

## Why You’ll Love This Easy Sesame Chicken

* **Quick & Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Simple Ingredients:** You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami will leave you wanting more.
* **Healthier Than Takeout:** You control the ingredients and can adjust the sweetness and sodium levels to your liking.
* **Versatile:** Serve it over rice, noodles, or even with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Making it at home is much cheaper than ordering takeout.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to adjust the amounts to your preference. I’ve also included notes on substitutions you can make.

**For the Chicken:**

* **1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (or Breasts):** Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay moister, but chicken breasts work too. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
* **1/4 cup Cornstarch:** This helps the chicken get crispy when pan-fried.
* **1/4 teaspoon Salt:** To season the chicken.
* **1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper:** Adds a touch of spice.

**For the Sesame Chicken Sauce:**

* **1/2 cup Soy Sauce:** Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. Tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) is a great substitute.
* **1/4 cup Honey (or Maple Syrup):** Provides sweetness and helps the sauce thicken. You can also use brown sugar or agave nectar.
* **2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar:** Adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness. White vinegar can be used as a last resort, but it will be less nuanced.
* **2 tablespoons Sesame Oil:** This is crucial for that signature sesame flavor! Don’t skip it.
* **1 tablespoon Cornstarch:** To thicken the sauce.
* **2 cloves Garlic, minced:** Adds a pungent and savory flavor.
* **1 teaspoon Ginger, minced:** Adds a warm and spicy note. Ginger paste can also be used.
* **1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat. Adjust to your preference or omit entirely.
* **1/4 cup Water:** To adjust the sauce consistency.

**For Garnish:**

* **Sesame Seeds:** For that classic sesame chicken look and added flavor.
* **Chopped Green Onions (optional):** Adds freshness and visual appeal.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Large Bowl:** For tossing the chicken with cornstarch and seasoning.
* **Small Bowl:** For whisking together the sauce ingredients.
* **Large Skillet or Wok:** For cooking the chicken and simmering the sauce.
* **Spatula or Tongs:** For flipping the chicken and stirring the sauce.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons**
* **Cutting Board and Knife**

## Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Easy Sesame Chicken

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying sesame chicken dinner.

**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**

1. Cut the chicken thighs (or breasts) into 1-inch cubes. I find thighs easier to work with as they are easier to dice and retain their moisture better when cooked.
2. In the large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Make sure each piece of chicken is coated in the mixture for maximum crispness.

**Step 2: Make the Sesame Chicken Sauce**

1. In the small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, minced ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and water until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps of cornstarch.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more honey for sweetness, rice vinegar for tanginess, or red pepper flakes for heat.

**Step 3: Cook the Chicken**

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well) in the large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature, leading to steamed chicken instead of crispy chicken.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.

**Step 4: Simmer the Sauce**

1. Pour the sesame chicken sauce into the same skillet you used to cook the chicken. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add tons of flavor.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
3. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

**Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce**

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken is glistening with the sauce.
3. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the sauce to further adhere to the chicken.

**Step 6: Serve and Garnish**

1. Remove the sesame chicken from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using).
3. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables. I highly recommend white rice; the sauce soaks into it perfectly! Brown rice is also a good, healthy option.

## Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Cooking the chicken in batches ensures it gets crispy and browns properly.
* **Use Hot Oil:** Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to prevent it from sticking and steaming.
* **Adjust the Sweetness and Heat:** Customize the recipe to your liking by adjusting the amount of honey and red pepper flakes.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh garlic and ginger will give the sauce the best flavor.
* **Thicken the Sauce to Your Preference:** If you like a thicker sauce, simmer it for a longer time. For a thinner sauce, add more water.
* **Marinate the Chicken:** For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
* **Get creative with vegetables**: Add broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking for a healthier and more colorful meal.
* **Toasted Sesame Seeds:** Toasting sesame seeds brings out their nutty flavor. Simply toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.

## Serving Suggestions

This easy sesame chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice are all excellent choices.
* **Noodles:** Serve it over lo mein noodles, chow mein noodles, or even spaghetti.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and bok choy are all great options.
* **Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls:** For a complete Asian-inspired meal.
* **Salad:** A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Chicken:** Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Press the tofu to remove excess water before coating it in cornstarch.
* **Honey:** Use maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave nectar as a substitute for honey.
* **Rice Vinegar:** White vinegar can be used as a last resort, but it will be less nuanced.
* **Soy Sauce:** Use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) if you have a gluten intolerance.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
* **Vegetables**: Add any vegetables you enjoy – broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snow peas. Add them to the pan with the sauce to soften.
* **Pineapple:** A popular addition, especially for those who like a sweeter and tangier sesame chicken. Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the pan with the sauce.

## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the sesame chicken sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also cut the chicken into cubes and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
* **Storage:** Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration. You can add a splash of water when reheating to thin it out.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the sesame chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish to prevent splattering.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g

## Conclusion

This easy sesame chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. So, ditch the takeout menu and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Bon appétit!

Enjoy this easy sesame chicken, and feel free to share your creations and modifications in the comments below! What other quick weeknight dinner recipes would you like to see? Let me know!

Happy cooking!