Sesame Chicken with Sweet Chili Sauce is the ultimate combination of crispy, savory, and just the right amount of sweet and tangy. The sesame adds a nutty crunch, while the sweet chili sauce brings that perfect balance of heat and sweetness. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite! 🍗🌶️
🌶️ Sesame Chicken with Sweet Chili Sauce
🛒 Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- ½ cup cornstarch (for coating)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the sweet chili sauce:
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1–2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1–2 tbsp water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional, for extra depth)
For garnish:
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
🔥 Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken in batches, cooking for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add water if the sauce gets too thick.
- Toss the Chicken in Sauce:
- Add the crispy chicken pieces to the skillet with the sweet chili sauce. Toss to coat evenly and heat the chicken through (about 1–2 minutes).
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro if using.
🍽️ Serve With:
- Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
- Stir-fried veggies or a simple salad
- A cold beer or iced tea 🍻🍹
This dish is sweet, savory, crispy, and perfect for a weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party. Want a spicier version with a kick of heat, or looking to switch it up with a different protein? Let me know!
