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Air Fryer Sesame Chicken: A Crispy Delight

If you’re searching for a way to enjoy a classic takeaway dish without the excess oil and calories, look no further than Air Fryer Sesame Chicken. This delectable recipe, inspired by your favourite Chinese restaurant meal, delivers tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, tangy sesame sauce—all with a fraction of the fat. At Hello Frozen Bananas, we believe that you shouldn’t have to compromise on flavour for health, and this recipe is a testament to that philosophy.

What is Sesame Chicken?

Sesame Chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its sweet and savoury sauce and crunchy sesame seeds. Traditionally, the chicken is deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior that can often leave you feeling weighed down. However, by utilising an air fryer, we can achieve that same satisfying crunch while keeping the dish lighter and healthier.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. They circulate hot air around the food, allowing it to cook evenly and become crispy without the need for excessive oil. This makes for a far healthier alternative to classic frying methods. Plus, air fryers are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to any kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make our Air Fryer Sesame Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 egg
  • 75g cornflour
  • 75g breadcrumbs (panko works best for added crunch)
• For the Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1-2 teaspoons cornflour mixed with a splash of water (for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Optional: chopped spring onions, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in a bowl with the egg. This will help the cornflour adhere to the chicken, creating that signature crunch.

2. Coat the Chicken:
   In a separate bowl, add the cornflour and breadcrumbs. Take each chicken piece from the egg wash and coat it thoroughly in the mixture. Press the crumbs down gently to ensure they stick well.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.

4. Cook the Chicken:
   Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for approximately 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through.

5. Prepare the Sauce:
   While the chicken cooks, combine the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornflour mixture in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring continuously until thickened.

6. Combine and Serve:
   Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sauce over the top and toss gently to coat each piece. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions if desired.

Tips for Success

• For Extra Crunch: Try double coating your chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb process.
• Add Vegetables: Enhance the meal by serving it with stir-fried vegetables or a side of steamed rice.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken is not only a quick and easy dinner option but also a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together, this dish will surely impress family and friends alike. Be sure to bookmark this recipe at Hello Frozen Bananas and indulge in the crispy goodness today!