Quick Sesame Chicken (Cheater’s Version)

Quick and Easy Sesame Chicken

This sesame chicken recipe gives you everything you love about your favorite takeout dish—crispy chicken, sweet and savory sauce, and that irresistible sesame crunch—without any of the hassle.

Plus, there’s no deep frying involved, so it’s a healthier, quicker option for busy nights.

Whip up this dish in just 20 minutes and enjoy all the flavor of takeout from the comfort of your own kitchen!

For Sesame Chicken

• Chicken – Ground chicken works best for this recipe, but you can also use boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs if preferred.
• Sunflower or Refined Coconut Oil – For sautéing the chicken and adding a bit of richness.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavors of the chicken and seasonings.
• Garlic and Ginger – Adds that classic Asian flavor to the dish.
• Chili Garlic Sauce – Brings some heat and spice to the sweet, savory sauce.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the savory and spicy flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds the essential umami flavor without being overly salty.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Gives the dish that signature nutty, rich sesame flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Used to create the sauce base and bring all the flavors together.
• Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect coating on the chicken.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and a burst of color to finish the dish.

For Sesame Sauce

• Soy Sauce – The savory base of the sauce that brings depth to the flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Provides that essential toasted sesame aroma and flavor.
• Chicken Broth – A key liquid that forms the sauce base.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce and balances the savory flavors.
• Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce so it coats the chicken perfectly.

Quick Sesame Chicken (Cheater's Version)

Craving that mouthwatering sesame chicken you always get from takeout? Skip the delivery and make it at home instead! This quick, healthier version is packed with all the bold flavors you love, and the best part? No deep frying required.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian

Keyword: Quick Sesame Chicken (Cheater's Version)

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon sunflower or refined coconut oil
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons grated ginger (or ginger paste)
• 1-2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
• 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock (plus an additional 1/4 cup, separated)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 8 green onions, thinly sliced

 

Instructions

1. Heat the sunflower or coconut oil in a large stainless steel pan or a high-sided cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and sprinkle the kosher salt over it. Cook, breaking up the chicken with a spoon, until the chicken turns opaque and is no longer pink.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, raise the heat to medium-high, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chili garlic sauce and brown sugar, cooking for another 30 seconds.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and 1 1/4 cups chicken stock, then pour it over the chicken mixture. Bring to a simmer.
4. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup chicken stock and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering chicken and sauce, stirring vigorously until the sauce thickens. Let it simmer for another 3 minutes, adjusting the thickness by adding extra chicken stock, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
5. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
6. Serve the sesame chicken over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as a topping for salads.

 

Nutrition

Calories: 480 kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 130mg | Sodium: 1352mg | Potassium: 984mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 28g Vitamin A: 160 IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 2.6mg

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1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer chicken breasts, simply chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. This method will still give you that tender, juicy chicken with all the great flavors.

2. I don’t have chili garlic sauce. What can I use instead?

No worries! If you don’t have chili garlic sauce, try using sriracha or a mix of minced garlic with red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat to your liking!

3. The sauce is too thick—what should I do?

If the sauce gets too thick, just add a bit more chicken broth, one tablespoon at a time. Stir it in until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time! Store it in the fridge for up to two days, and just reheat it when you’re ready to cook the chicken.

5. What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to get creative with veggies! Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots can be added. Just sauté them before adding the chicken and sauce to keep everything crisp and flavorful.