Craving crispy chicken that stays crispy, even after being drenched in a flavorful sauce? Look no further! These Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites are the answer to your saucy chicken dreams. We’ve all experienced the disappointment of soggy, sauce-laden chicken, but this recipe utilizes a simple yet ingenious technique to ensure maximum crispness that lasts. Get ready for a taste sensation that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites
These aren’t just your average chicken bites. They’re:
- Seriously Crispy: The double-cornstarch technique guarantees an irresistible crunch in every bite.
- Bursting with Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory sesame goodness.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
- No Soggy Chicken! The technique keeps these bites irresistibly crunchy.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these chicken bites so irresistible! We’re aiming for a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, from the crispy chicken to the vibrant sesame sauce. The quality of your ingredients will shine through in the final dish, so choose wisely. Now, let’s break down each component, highlighting the key players and their roles in creating the ultimate chicken bite experience.
The Crispy Chicken Base:
- 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. Cut them into even, 1-inch pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- 1 cup Cornstarch: This is the secret weapon for achieving that unparalleled crispness! Cornstarch creates a light, airy coating that fries up beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt & 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Simple seasonings, but essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil: A neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point is ideal for frying. Canola or peanut oil are also great options.
The Spicy Sesame Sauce: This sauce is where the magic happens, transforming simple fried chicken into a flavor explosion!
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce: Use a good quality soy sauce for a rich, umami flavor. Low-sodium versions can be used if you prefer to control the salt content.
- 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet element that balances the richness of the soy sauce and honey.
- 2 tablespoons Honey: Provides sweetness and helps the sauce to thicken and cling to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way! Sesame oil adds a nutty, aromatic flavor that is characteristic of Asian cuisine.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, creating a glossy and luscious coating for the chicken.
- 1/2 cup Water: Thins the sauce to a manageable consistency.
- 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (or to taste): Adjust the amount to your desired spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a pinch and add more as needed.
- 1 teaspoon Grated Ginger & 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh aromatics are key to a flavorful sauce. Grate the ginger finely for even distribution.
The Finishing Touches:
- 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal. Toasting the sesame seeds lightly before garnishing will enhance their flavor.
- 2 Green Onions, thinly sliced: Provides a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color.
Crafting Your Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites: Step-by-Step
Now, let’s get cooking! This recipe is straightforward, but attention to detail is key to achieving that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be enjoying these irresistible chicken bites in no time.
- Coat the Chicken: The Crispness Foundation. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, 1 cup of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated. Ensure each piece is evenly covered in cornstarch – this is the single most important step in achieving maximum crispness! The cornstarch acts as a barrier, preventing the chicken from absorbing too much oil and creating that desirable crunchy exterior.
- Heat the Oil: Setting the Stage for Frying. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when a small piece of chicken sizzles gently when dropped in. Be patient and allow the oil to reach the proper temperature for optimal frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Achieving Golden Perfection. Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in steamed, rather than fried, chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a wire rack to drain excess oil. This wire rack is essential for keeping the chicken crispy as it allows air to circulate around each piece.
- Whisk the Sauce: Building Flavor Symphony. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and water. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent lumps in the sauce. This mixture creates the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will complement the crispy chicken.
- Bloom the Aromatics: Unleashing the Flavor. In the same skillet (after removing the excess oil), add the red pepper flakes, ginger, and garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the sauce. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Creating a Luscious Coating. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken to a glossy, slightly viscous consistency. This is where the cornstarch does its magic, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: The Grand Finale. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken without making it soggy. Key: Don’t overcook at this stage. You want the sauce to coat the chicken without losing the crispness. The double-fry effect from the cornstarch coating ensures crispness.
- Garnish and Serve: The Perfect Presentation. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful crunch and flavorful sauce!
Tips for Perfect Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites Every Time
Want to take your Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites to the next level? Here are a few pro tips to ensure crispy, flavorful perfection every single time:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: We cannot stress this enough! Frying in batches is essential for maintaining the oil temperature and achieving maximum crispness.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before coating the chicken in cornstarch, pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the cornstarch adhere better and prevent the chicken from steaming in the oil.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Toasting sesame seeds in a dry pan for a few minutes before garnishing enhances their nutty flavor and aroma. Keep a close eye on them as they burn quickly.
- Serve Immediately: These chicken bites are best enjoyed immediately while they are still crispy and warm.
- Consider trying them with some golden vegetable rice pilaf on the side! It will round out the meal and add another layer of flavor.
What to Serve With Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites
These Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites are delicious on their own as an appetizer or snack, but they also pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with:
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette
- Noodles
Your Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites Questions Answered (FAQ)
Can I make these Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites ahead of time?
While these are best served immediately, you can prep some components ahead of time. The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it is recommended to fry and sauce the chicken just before serving to ensure maximum crispness.
Can I bake these Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites instead of frying them?
Baking will not yield the same level of crispness as frying. However, if you prefer to bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cornstarch-coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden. You may need to broil them for the last few minutes to achieve some crispness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will be more tender and flavorful than chicken breasts, but may not be as crispy. You can adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftover Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites?
Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore some of the crispness, but be aware that they will not be as crispy as when freshly made. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy. Perhaps you could try these chicken bites alongside creamy paneer rice bowl for an extra flavorful and unique experience!
Enjoy Your Homemade Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites!
Congratulations, you’ve just created a batch of irresistible Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites! These crispy, flavorful bites are perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate crispy chicken experience. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know what you think, and share this recipe with your friends and family!
Spicy Sesame Chicken Bites (Stays Crispy, Not Soggy!)
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, 1 cup cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss until chicken is fully coated. This is the key to maximum crispness!
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and water.
- In the same skillet, add the red pepper flakes, ginger, and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken without making it soggy. *Key: The double-fry effect from the cornstarch coating ensures crispness. Don’t overcook at this stage.*
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately.