Super Sticky Sesame Chicken (Better Than Takeout!)
This crispy sesame chicken is coated in a rich, sweet-and-savory sauce with just the right hint of garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying that takeout craving at home.
Why You’ll Love It:
Easy 30-minute dinner
Better than your favorite Chinese takeout
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside
Sweet, sticky sesame sauce that clings to every bite
Ingredients
Chicken:
1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-size pieces
½ cup cornstarch
1 egg
2 tbsp soy sauce
Salt & pepper, to taste
Oil for frying (canola or avocado)
Sesame Sauce:
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
Prep the chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, egg, salt, and pepper. Toss in cornstarch until fully coated.
Fry the chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Pour into the pan and bring to a simmer.
Thicken it up: Stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let the sauce simmer until thick and glossy.
Toss & serve: Return chicken to the pan, toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
Best Served With:
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
Stir-fried vegetables
A sprinkle of crushed red pepper (for heat lovers)
Extra sesame seeds & scallions for texture and color
Quick Info:
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Serves: 4
Pro Tip:
Make extra sauce and drizzle it over rice or veggies — it’s that good!!