Crispy Sesame Chicken
Sweet and Savory Skillet Chicken with a Bright, Zesty Citrus Glaze
This classic Crispy Sesame Chicken recipe delivers tender chicken pieces coated in a light, crunchy batter, then tossed in a sweet, savory, and nutty glaze. It’s far better than takeout and comes together surprisingly quickly in a single skillet. Serve it over rice for a complete, satisfying Chinese-inspired meal that the whole family will love.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes Servings: 4
Ingredients
1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
1/2 cup (60 g) cornstarch
1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) salt
1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) black pepper
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sesame Glaze:
1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp (15 ml) rice vinegar
1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp (5 ml) grated ginger
1 tbsp (15 ml) toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Chopped scallions (green onions), for garnish
Heat It Up with Eleven Eleven Sauce: Enhance the traditional sweet and savory profile with a refreshing zest by using WesMarMi Verde in the glaze. Whisk in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the sauce along with the soy sauce and honey mixture. The citrusy, fresh flavor adds a vibrant finish that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Heat Level: 0 out of 10 🔥
Eleven Eleven Sauce’s Wes Mar Mi is a bright, citrus-forward hot sauce made without vinegar, using organic lime and lemon juice for a clean, tangy snap and zero heat. It’s intensely flavorful yet refreshingly light, perfect for finishing tacos, marinating chicken or fish, or waking up bowls and salads. Add a bottle to your cart for a fresh, natural kick that makes everyday meals taste lively.
1. Prepare Chicken: In a shallow dish, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Place the cubed chicken in a bowl, pour the beaten egg over it, and toss to coat. Dredge the chicken pieces one by one in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together all the glaze ingredients (soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger). Set aside.
3. Cook Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a black cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet (work in batches if necessary). Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)). Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
4. Glaze the Chicken: Drain any excess oil from the skillet, leaving only about 1 teaspoon (5 ml). Pour the prepared glaze into the hot skillet. Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until it thickens slightly.
5. Toss and Garnish: Return the crispy chicken to the skillet. Toss quickly to fully coat all the pieces with the warm, sticky glaze. Remove from heat immediately. Serve over rice, garnished generously with toasted sesame seeds and fresh scallions.
Tips & Variations
Extra Crunch: For truly extra crispy chicken, coat the chicken in the cornstarch/flour mixture and let it rest for 10 minutes before frying to allow the coating to adhere better.
Healthier Method: Instead of pan-frying, you can bake or air-fry the coated chicken. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Regional Swap (Mediterranean): Replace the soy sauce with lemon juice and a pinch of dried oregano, and swap the sesame oil for olive oil for a bright, Greek-inspired lemon-herb chicken.
Other Users Suggest
Replacing: Honey. Suggested Swap: 2 tbsp (30 ml) brown sugar or agave nectar. Why: To maintain sweetness and stickiness if honey isn't available or for a vegan option (using agave/maple).
Replacing: Chicken Thighs/Breasts. Suggested Swap: 1.5 lbs (680 g) firm tofu, pressed and cubed. Why: Creates a fantastic vegetarian alternative that crisps up well and absorbs the glaze.
Storage, Reheat & Freeze
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The coating may soften slightly.
Reheat: For best results, reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore some crispness.
Freeze: The glazed chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Calories: 550 Protein: 45g Carbs: 38g Fat: 25g
Explore More Recipes from Eleven Eleven Sauce:
