Welcome to your new favorite dinner recipe: homemade Sesame Chicken! This delightful dish features crispy pieces of chicken enveloped in a rich honey sesame sauce, combining sweet and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a satisfying and healthier version of this classic Asian favorite, ready to impress your family or guests. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a fragrant and delicious sesame chicken that’s even better than what you’d find at your favorite restaurant. Let’s get cooking!
Historical Background
The origins of sesame chicken can be traced back to Chinese cuisine, particularly in the context of Chinese-American food. While traditional Chinese dishes often feature sauces made from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, sesame chicken incorporates a thicker, sweeter sauce, often made with sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. The dish gained popularity during the late 20th century as Chinese restaurants adapted traditional recipes to cater to American palates.
Nutritional Insights
The nutritional profile of sesame chicken can vary significantly based on preparation and serving size. However, some common nutritional aspects include:
- Calories: A typical serving of sesame chicken can contain anywhere from 300 to 600 calories, depending on the portion and additional ingredients.
- Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein, providing around 25-30 grams per serving.
- Fats: Due to the frying process and the inclusion of sesame oil, sesame chicken can be high in fat, especially saturated fats.
- Carbohydrates: The sauce typically contains sugar, which adds to the carbohydrate content.
While sesame chicken is a delicious meal option, individuals should consume it in moderation, especially if they are mindful of calorie intake.
Popularity and Variations
Sesame chicken is not only popular in Chinese-American restaurants but also in fast-casual dining chains. Its appeal lies in its balance of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy savory dishes with a hint of sweetness.
Over the years, various adaptations of sesame chicken have emerged to cater to different dietary preferences:
- Healthier Versions: Some restaurants now offer baked or air-fried versions to reduce calorie and fat content.
- Vegetarian Alternatives: Tofu or vegetables can replace chicken for a vegetarian spin on the classic dish.
- Spicy Variants: To cater to fans of spice, some variations include chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Sesame chicken stands out as a beloved dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures, reflecting both Chinese culinary traditions and American preferences. With its historical roots, nutritional considerations, and cultural significance, sesame chicken remains a popular choice for individuals looking to enjoy a delicious meal.
Whether dining out or attempting to make it at home, this dish continues to resonate with people from various backgrounds, illustrating the universal appeal of good food. As food lovers explore the world of cuisine, sesame chicken serves as a delicious reminder of the connections forged through dining experiences.
Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- **For the chicken :
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
- 2 eggs beaten
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- oil for frying
- **For the sauce:
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (reduced sodium if possible)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
Instructions
Combine the egg mixture
- Place the eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stir to combine.
Prepare the coating
- Place the flour and 1/2 cup of cornstarch in a shallow bowl or on a plate.
- Stir to combine.
Coat the chicken
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture.
- Then dip it into the flour.
- Repeat the process with all of the chicken.
Heat the oil
- Heat 3 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350 degrees F.
Cook the chicken
- Add 7-8 pieces of chicken to the pan.
- Cook for 5 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chicken.
Drain the chicken
- Drain the chicken on paper towels.
Prepare the sauce while chicken cooks
- Combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch in a bowl.
Cook the sauce
- Heat the teaspoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the honey sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes or until just thickened.
Combine chicken and sauce
- Add the crispy chicken to the pan.
- Toss to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, then serve.
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