featured 1780

Effortless Sesame Chicken

Homemade Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe: Skip the Takeout for a Delicious Weeknight Meal!

Do you ever find yourself craving the sweet, savory, and utterly satisfying flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout dishes, only to feel a little overwhelmed by the thought of cooking them at home? My family absolutely loves Chinese food, and for a long time, my solution to that craving was a quick run to Panda Express. The idea of gathering an array of unfamiliar ingredients and tackling complex techniques often seemed like too much effort after a long day. But what if I told you that you can achieve that beloved restaurant-quality sesame chicken right in your own kitchen with surprising ease?
This “Easy Sesame Chicken” recipe is a true game-changer, designed for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine but wants a straightforward, accessible approach to making it from scratch. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and wholesome meal that comes together without the hassle. Forget those intimidatingly long ingredient lists and elaborate cooking steps; this recipe focuses on simple preparation, incredible flavor, and a fantastic finished product that will have everyone asking for seconds. You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can transform basic pantry staples into a dish that rivals your favorite takeout spot. Plus, there’s immense satisfaction in knowing exactly what goes into your family’s meal. I love serving it alongside a vibrant side of edamame or steamed broccoli, and the results are always incredibly delicious! Doesn’t it just look like a feast waiting to happen? It absolutely is.
Close-up of Easy Sesame Chicken garnished with sesame seeds

Easy Sesame Chicken

5 from 1 vote

Print
Pin
Rate

Course: Entree
Author: Jenn

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1″ cubes
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 3 Tbsp. oyster sauce
  • 3/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 3 Tbsp. cornstarch
  • 1-1/2 cups broccoli cut into small florets
  • sesame seeds

Instructions

  • Place 1/2 cup cornstarch in a large plastic baggie. Add the chicken cubes and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. This cornstarch coating is key to getting that slightly crispy exterior.
  • In a large skillet or wok, pour enough canola oil (or other neutral oil like vegetable or grapeseed oil) to cover the bottom, ensuring about a quarter-inch depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. It should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, draining any excess oil if necessary.
  • While your chicken is cooking, prepare the sesame sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic powder, and the remaining 3 Tbsp. cornstarch. Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and there are no lumps of cornstarch. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir continuously. The sauce will gradually thicken as it heats, becoming glossy and clinging to the spoon. This typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Once thickened to your liking, remove from heat. Pour this delicious, aromatic sauce over your browned chicken in the large skillet. Stir gently to ensure every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the rich, sticky sauce. Simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully absorb the flavors.
  • Now it’s time to add your vegetables! Add the broccoli florets to the chicken and sauce in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the broccoli steam alongside the chicken. This method allows the broccoli to become tender-crisp while soaking up some of that amazing sesame flavor. Steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your desired level of tenderness. If you prefer a crunchier texture, steam for less time.
  • To serve, spoon the flavorful sesame chicken and tender broccoli over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of nutty flavor and visual appeal. For an extra touch, you can also sprinkle with chopped green onions. This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh. ENJOY!!
Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @JenNikolaus or tag #YummyHealthyEasy!

Tips for Making Your Easy Sesame Chicken Extra Special

While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few tips can elevate your homemade sesame chicken even further:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the chicken, cook it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding cools down the oil, preventing a proper sear and leading to steamed, rather than crispy, chicken.
  • Whisk Sauce Well: Before heating, make sure the cornstarch in the sauce mixture is fully dissolved. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, glossy sauce.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before pouring it over the chicken. If you prefer a less sweet or more savory profile, you can slightly adjust the sugar or soy sauce to your liking.
  • Vegetable Variations: Broccoli is a classic pairing, but feel free to experiment with other quick-cooking vegetables. Bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or even thinly sliced zucchini can be excellent additions. Add them with the broccoli or slightly earlier if they need more cooking time.
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds: For maximum flavor, use toasted sesame seeds. If you only have raw seeds, you can quickly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce mixture.

Why Choose Homemade Over Takeout?

Making your own sesame chicken offers several advantages beyond just the sheer deliciousness:

  • Ingredient Control: You know exactly what goes into your meal. You can opt for low-sodium soy sauce, adjust sugar levels, and use fresh, high-quality chicken and vegetables.
  • Cost-Effective: Preparing meals at home is almost always more budget-friendly than ordering takeout, especially when feeding a family.
  • Customization: Dietary restrictions or preferences? No problem! This recipe is easily adaptable. Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, adjust the vegetable mix, or experiment with different sauces.
  • Freshness: Enjoy your meal piping hot, straight from the skillet. The flavors are vibrant, and the textures are perfect when freshly cooked.

This easy sesame chicken recipe truly delivers on flavor and convenience, making it a staple in our household. It’s proof that you don’t need exotic ingredients or complicated techniques to enjoy incredible Chinese-inspired dishes at home. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself saying goodbye to those last-minute takeout runs for good!

Looking for more dinner ideas that are just as easy and delicious?
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Casserole – A comforting and hearty meal that practically cooks itself.
Baked Sweet & Sour Chicken – Another Chinese takeout favorite, made healthier in your oven.
Beef Penne Pasta Bake – A simple, cheesy pasta dish perfect for a family dinner.
Easy Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Pork – Tender, smoky pulled pork with minimal effort.