Easy Sesame Chicken

Save this recipe on:

Skip the takeout and make this irresistibly crispy, sticky, and savory-sweet Easy Sesame Chicken right in your own kitchen. Each golden bite is coated in a glossy glaze that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, then sprinkled with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a final flourish. It looks impressive, tastes even better, and comes together surprisingly fast.

This homemade version gives you full control over the ingredients—no mystery sauces, no soggy batter, and certainly no waiting in line. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a quick weeknight dinner, this sesame chicken delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss.

---

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sesame Chicken

This recipe is a must-try if you’re into fast, flavorful dishes with a crispy texture and satisfying sauce. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights when you want comfort food with a homemade twist. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or steamed veggies, giving you endless serving options.

---

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the crispiest, juiciest results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay tender inside even after frying. If you prefer white meat, boneless chicken breasts work just as well—just be sure not to overcook to avoid dryness.

---

Ingredients for the Easy Sesame Chicken

To bring this restaurant-style sesame chicken to life, here’s what each ingredient contributes:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – the star of the dish, they fry up tender and juicy.
• Cornstarch – ensures a light, crisp coating when frying.
• Soy sauce – adds salty depth to both the marinade and sauce.
• Egg – helps the cornstarch stick to the chicken.
• Garlic & Ginger – infuse bold aromatic flavor.
• Brown sugar – gives the sauce its signature sweetness and stickiness.
• Rice vinegar – balances the sweetness with gentle acidity.
• Sesame oil – brings a rich, nutty aroma.
• Toasted sesame seeds – for texture and visual appeal.
• Scallions – chopped and sprinkled for freshness and a pop of green.

---

How To Make the Easy Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce, egg, and cornstarch. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat and forms the base of the crispy coating.

Step 2: Fry Until Crispy

Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Toss to Coat

Add the fried chicken into the sauce and toss until each piece is well coated.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve hot with rice or your favorite side.

---

How to Serve and Store Easy Sesame Chicken

This recipe serves 4 people generously. Serve it hot over jasmine rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. It also works great in lettuce wraps or on top of noodles.

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture.

---

What to Serve With Easy Sesame Chicken?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Simple and fragrant, it soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.

Stir-Fried Broccoli

The crunch and freshness of broccoli balance the rich, sticky chicken.

Garlic Noodles

Savory and buttery, they add extra comfort to the meal.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Refreshing, tangy, and cool—an ideal contrast.

Fried Rice

Amp up the meal with veggies and egg-fried rice.

Lettuce Wraps

Turn it into an appetizer by wrapping pieces in crisp lettuce leaves.

Sweet Chili Green Beans

Adds a mild heat and a splash of color.

---

Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you love this sticky sesame chicken, don’t miss these flavorful dishes next:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood fusion twist.
• Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken if you crave cheesy-crispy crusts.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a hearty, comforting bake.
• Crispy Buttery Chicken Fried Chicken when you want indulgent Southern flair.
• Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken for easy, slow-cooked barbecue flavor.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or stick to sweet? Any fun additions? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Explore beautifully curated flavor-packed meals on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover new favorites for every craving!

Print

Save this recipe on: