Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Name: Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breast; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry); 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced; Vegetable oil for frying

Plate of Chinese takeout sesame chicken garnished with sesame seeds and vegetables

By :

Emma

October 21, 2025

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Why make this recipe

Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken is a beloved dish, and for good reason. It’s sweet, savory, and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for takeout lovers. But why order when you can create this delicious meal in your own kitchen? Making sesame chicken at home means you can control the ingredients, adjust the flavors to your liking, and save money as well. Plus, there’s something satisfying about cooking a great meal from scratch. You can enjoy it fresh, hot, and just the way you like it.

Home cooking also gives you the chance to impress family and friends with your culinary skills. Whether it’s a weekend dinner, a family gathering, or a casual meal, this sesame chicken will quickly become a hit. It pairs perfectly with rice or noodles, making it a complete meal that satisfies the whole table.

How to make Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Making Sesame Chicken is quite simple, and the steps are straightforward. With just a few ingredients and minimal equipment, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that’s better than takeout. Here’s how you can create this Chinese classic in your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breast
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ketchup
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
Set Up a Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In another bowl, mix together the cornstarch and all-purpose flour.
Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken and dip it in the beaten eggs. Then, coat it well in the flour and cornstarch mixture. Ensure each piece is fully covered for that perfect crunch.
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken in batches. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and crispy. When done, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring well. Heat this mixture on low, and let it simmer until it thickens.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: In a clean skillet, add the fried chicken. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and toss to coat everything evenly.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, top your sesame chicken with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve it hot, preferably with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutrient Benefits

This sesame chicken dish not only tastes great but also provides a variety of nutrients. Chicken breast is a lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of garlic adds health benefits such as improving heart health and boosting the immune system. Soy sauce, while often viewed as a source of sodium, can be balanced in moderation to provide umami flavor without overwhelming your meal.

Including vegetables like green onions offers vitamins and minerals to enhance overall well-being. By serving it with rice or noodles, you also introduce carbohydrates that provide energy. Enjoying this meal is not only filling but nutritious!

What to Serve With Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your sesame chicken with a few complementary dishes:

Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, rice absorbs the sauce and adds texture to your plate.
Fried Rice: For an extra flavor punch, serve it with a side of fried rice. You can add vegetables or protein for a heartier dish.
Noodles: Lo mein or fried noodles work beautifully with sesame chicken.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable side like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas can bring in some freshness and nutrients.
Spring Rolls: These add a fun appetizer element to your meal, making it more festive.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall in love with this Sesame Chicken because it’s easier to make than you think. The crispy chicken combined with the sweet, sticky sauce creates a delightful bite. It’s a homestyle comfort food that feels special, suitable for any occasion. The aroma of the garlic and sesame oil fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. Plus, it’s customizable; you can easily make it spicier or adapt it to your taste.

How to store Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken

Leftovers? No problem! Storing your sesame chicken is simple:

Refrigerate: Place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Reheat: To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat to maintain its crispiness, or microwave it for a quick option, though it may not retain the same texture.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying, avoid putting too many pieces of chicken in the skillet at once. This lowers the oil temperature and can result in soggy chicken.
Use a Thermometer: If you’re unsure about chicken doneness, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked through.
Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for enough time to thicken. If it’s too thin, it won’t cling well to the chicken.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer less sweetness, cut down on the brown sugar or replace it with less sugary alternatives.

Variation

While this recipe stays true to the original flavors of Sesame Chicken, feel free to make variations based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots into the dish for more color and nutrition. Simply stir-fry them with the chicken at the end.
Orange Sesame Chicken: For a fruity twist, add some orange juice and zest to your sauce for a fresh citrus flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Just make sure they’re cut into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to use it.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Sesame Chicken is great for meal prep. Just store it separately from the rice or noodles until you’re ready to enjoy it.

How do I make gluten-free Sesame Chicken?

To make this dish gluten-free, swap out soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour, and ensure your chicken is breaded accordingly.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese Takeout Sesame Chicken, and experience the joy of a delicious meal made right in your kitchen!