Are you craving that delicious taste of Pei Wei's Sesame Chicken but want to make it at home? You're in luck! In this blog post, I'll show you how to whip up a savory copycat recipe that captures all those flavors you love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll impress your family with a dish that's crispy, sweet, and utterly satisfying. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves minced garlic
Optional Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 3 chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chicken
Start by prepping the chicken. Take 1 pound of chicken breast and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Next, in a large bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of cornstarch and 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Now, dip each chicken piece into 2 large beaten eggs. Let the extra egg drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the cornstarch-flour mix. Make sure each piece is fully covered. This step gives the chicken a crispy texture.
Frying the Chicken
Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet. Set the heat to medium-high. Wait until the oil shimmers. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil in small batches. This helps to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, take them out and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Making the Sauce
While the chicken fries, make the sauce. In a separate saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of sesame oil, 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it starts to simmer, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Final Assembly
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the crispy fried chicken to the saucepan with the simmering sauce. Gently toss the chicken so it gets coated evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds on top and give it another light toss.
For serving, place the sesame chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or beside stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with 3 chopped green onions for a fresh look.
Tips & Tricks
Key Cooking Tips
- Ensuring a crispy texture: To get that perfect crunch, coat each chicken piece well. Use a mix of cornstarch and flour. This creates a crunchy outer layer. The egg wash helps the coating stick better. Fry your chicken in hot oil. This keeps the coating crispy.
- Avoiding overcrowding in the frying pan: Fry chicken in small batches. This allows even cooking and crispiness. If you crowd the pan, the temperature drops. This can make your chicken soggy instead of crispy.
Flavor Enhancement
- Adjusting sweetness and seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken. You can change the sweetness by adding more honey or soy sauce. If you like it spicier, add a dash of red pepper flakes. This helps balance the flavors.
- Adding extra ingredients for complexity: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. They can bring color and crunch to your dish. You can also toss in some toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
Presentation Tips
- Ideal serving conditions: Serve your sesame chicken hot and fresh. A wide, shallow bowl works best for serving. This allows guests to see the sauce and garnishes. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nice touch.
- Pairing suggestions for meals: Serve the chicken over rice or with steamed veggies. Broccoli or snap peas add color and nutrition. These sides balance the meal and make it more appealing.
Variations
Healthy Alternatives
You can make this dish healthier by using chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Thighs are juicier and add more flavor. They also stay moist when cooked.
You can also bake instead of fry. Start by coating your chicken as usual. Then, place it on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. This keeps the chicken crispy without the extra oil.
Flavor Variations
Add some spice to your meal with red pepper flakes. Just a pinch can make a big difference! Mix them into the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.
You can also experiment with extra vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work great. Add them to the pan when cooking the chicken. This gives you more color and nutrients in your dish.
Dietary Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Many brands are available that work just as well. Check the labels to ensure they fit your needs.
If you're looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, swap chicken for tofu or tempeh. Marinate them in the sauce and bake or fry them. This way, you'll still get a tasty meal without meat.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your sesame chicken fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This stops moisture from making it soggy. It will stay good for about three days. If you notice any off smell, it's best to throw it out.
Freezing Guidance
If you want to enjoy sesame chicken later, freezing is a great option. Let the chicken cool completely before freezing. Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months this way.
When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, heat it at 350°F until warm, about 10-15 minutes. In the microwave, heat in short bursts to avoid drying it out. Enjoy your tasty meal!
FAQs
What can I serve with Sesame Chicken?
You can serve sesame chicken with several tasty side dishes. Here are my top picks:
- Steamed white rice
- Fried rice with vegetables
- Stir-fried broccoli or snap peas
- A fresh green salad
- Egg rolls or spring rolls
These sides will add flavor and color to your meal, making it more enjoyable.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare some parts of this dish ahead of time. Here are my tips:
- Chicken: You can bread the chicken pieces and store them in the fridge. Fry them just before serving.
- Sauce: You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before tossing with the chicken.
- Serving time: Aim to serve it fresh for the best taste.
If you prepare ahead, the total time will be less when you’re ready to eat.
How can I ensure my chicken is tender?
To keep your chicken tender, follow these tips:
- Use chicken breast that is fresh and not overcooked.
- Cut your chicken into even, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Fry the chicken in small batches. This keeps the oil temperature steady and helps achieve crispiness.
- Avoid frying for too long. Cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
By following these steps, your chicken will turn out juicy and tasty every time!
This article covered how to make delicious sesame chicken from scratch. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance flavor and texture. You learned how to store leftovers and explore variations, making this dish fit your taste. Remember, experimenting with spices or cooking methods can lead to tasty new creations. Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and don’t hesitate to share your results!