Crispy, savory, and irresistible: how to make the best deep-fried sesame chicken ever
What To Know
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.
- The chicken is fully cooked when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
- You can also insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to check if it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Craving crispy, flavorful sesame chicken? Deep-frying it at home is easier than you think! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to achieve perfect deep-fried sesame chicken that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine (or dry sherry)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
2. Prepare the Batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
3. Double-Coat the Chicken:
Dip the marinated chicken pieces into the egg wash. Then, dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Repeat the process to double-coat the chicken.
4. Heat the Oil:
Pour the vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large pot and heat it to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Season:
Remove the fried chicken using a slotted spoon and drain it on paper towels. While still hot, sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your deep-fried sesame chicken is now ready to serve! Enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or honey mustard.
Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken:
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its taste.
- Double-coating the chicken helps create a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Heat the oil to the correct temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot when frying to prevent the chicken from sticking together.
- Drain the chicken thoroughly on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Variations:
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Honey Sesame Chicken: Drizzle honey over the fried chicken before sprinkling with sesame seeds for a sweet and savory combination.
- Orange Sesame Chicken: Add a tablespoon of orange juice or zest to the marinade for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Healthier Options:
- Air Fryer Sesame Chicken: Instead of deep-frying, cook the sesame chicken in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Baked Sesame Chicken: Bake the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Summary:
With these step-by-step instructions, you can now master the art of deep-frying sesame chicken at home. This crispy, flavorful dish is a perfect appetizer or main course for any occasion. Experiment with different variations and healthier options to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating restaurant-quality sesame chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen!
What You Need to Learn
Q: What type of oil is best for deep-frying sesame chicken?
A: Vegetable oil is commonly used for deep-frying due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The chicken is fully cooked when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You can also insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to check if it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I freeze deep-fried sesame chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze deep-fried sesame chicken. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or microwave it on low power until warmed through.
