The ultimate guide to crispy, savory sesame chicken with pf chang sauce

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more? Let’s dive into the delightful world of sesame chicken, infused with the irresistible flavors of PF Chang’s iconic sauce.

Ingredients for the Sesame Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Ingredients for the PF Chang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
• Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture until evenly coated.

2. Fry the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Carefully add the chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

3. Make the PF Chang Sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and water.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

• Return the fried chicken to the saucepan with the sauce.
• Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
• Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve the sesame chicken hot over rice or noodles.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations to Explore:

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or Sriracha to the PF Chang sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Garlic Sesame Chicken: Double the amount of honey in the PF Chang sauce for a sweet and savory combination.
• Teriyaki Sesame Chicken: Replace the soy sauce in the PF Chang sauce with teriyaki sauce for a Japanese-inspired twist.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. This will prevent it from cooking evenly.
• Make sure the sauce is simmering before adding the chicken. This will help prevent the cornstarch from clumping.
• Cook the chicken in the sauce for just a few minutes to prevent it from becoming tough.

Final Thoughts:

Indulge in the delectable symphony of flavors that this sesame chicken with PF Chang sauce offers. With its crispy chicken, tantalizing sauce, and endless variations, it’s a culinary masterpiece that will become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

FAQ:

1. What can I substitute for rice vinegar in the PF Chang sauce?

• White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice vinegar.

2. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, make sure to thaw them completely before coating and frying them.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the sauce mixture before simmering.