Image Source from jstnchaney

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken: A Crispy Asian Delight

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, providing a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying while still delivering that desirable crispiness. One dish that perfectly showcases the capabilities of the air fryer is sesame chicken—a fragrant and flavourful Asian-inspired meal that is both easy to prepare and a hit with the whole family. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Air Fryer Sesame Chicken that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

To create your own Air Fryer Sesame Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornflour (for coating)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (to garnish)
• 2-3 spring onions, finely sliced (for garnish)

Method

1. Preparation of the Chicken:

   • Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This base seasoning will enhance the overall flavour.
   • Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with cornflour, one with the beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs.

2. Breading Process:

   • Dredge each piece of chicken in cornflour, shaking off any excess, before dipping it into the beaten egg. Finally, roll the chicken pieces in the panko breadcrumbs until well-coated. This double-coating method ensures a wonderfully crispy texture.

3. Air Frying:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F). Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.
   • Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them for even cooking.
   • Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crispiness. The chicken is done when it is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

4. Preparing the Sauce:

   • While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and garlic. Stir continuously until heated through and well combined, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Combining:

   • Once the chicken is cooked, place it in a large mixing bowl and pour the sauce over the top. Toss gently to ensure each piece is well coated in the luscious sauce.
6. Serving:
   • Transfer the sesame chicken onto a serving platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and finely sliced spring onions for an added touch of colour and flavour.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to takeout options. The air fryer locks in moisture while producing a satisfying crunch without the heavy use of oil. Whether served over steamed rice, noodles, or a bed of vegetables, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your household. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a delightful taste of Asian cuisine from the comfort of your kitchen!