Sticky Sesame Chicken

This beloved dish features tender pieces of chicken coated in a rich, glossy, sweet, and savory sesame sauce. It's a perfect weeknight meal that delivers satisfying flavors with minimal effort.

Sticky Sesame Chicken
  • Prep time: 19 minutes
  • Cook time: 37 minutes
  • Total time: 56 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and toss with flour until lightly coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a desired consistency.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sticky sauce.
  6. Serve immediately over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Tips

  • For extra crispy chicken, ensure the pieces are well-patted dry before coating in flour and cook in batches if necessary.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding a little more honey or a pinch of sugar to the sauce.
  • The cornstarch slurry is key for thickening; make sure to mix it with cold water to prevent lumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but cook it for a shorter time to prevent it from drying out. Thighs tend to stay juicier.

How should I store leftover Sticky Sesame Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What can I substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.