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A Simple and Healthy Twist on a Beloved Chinese Takeout Favourite: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Chinese takeout has long been a beloved staple for many, gracing our tables with an array of dishes that delight the senses. However, frequent takeout can take a toll on our health and wallets. Enter the Air Fryer Sesame Chicken—a healthier, homemade alternative that captures the essence of your favourite takeout while keeping the calories in check. With a crispy texture and rich sesame flavour, this dish is sure to please both the tastebuds and your waistline.

The Appeal of Sesame Chicken

Sesame chicken is a classic dish that features tender pieces of chicken coated in a crispy batter, typically tossed in a sweet and savoury sauce. While irresistible, the traditional version can be high in calories and saturated fats due to the deep-frying process. By using an air fryer, we can achieve the same satisfying crunch with significantly less oil, making it an ideal choice for a health-conscious meal.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

The air fryer utilises hot air circulation to cook food, allowing for a crispy finish without the need for excessive oil. This cooking method not only results in lower calorie counts but also helps retain the nutrients in the ingredients. If you’re yet to embrace the convenience of this ingenious appliance, now is the perfect time to explore its culinary potential!

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken:

• 500g (1 pound) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup wholemeal breadcrumbs (for added fibre)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Spring onions, finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and cornstarch, mixing well. In another bowl, place the beaten egg.

To coat the chicken, dip each piece into the egg first, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. This will produce that desirable crunch when air-fried.

2. Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a small amount of cooking oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. Air fry for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.

3. Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, vinegar, sesame oil, and optional ginger and garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, and then stir in the sesame seeds.

4. Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the prepared sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with spring onions for an added pop of colour and flavour. Pair your Air Fryer Sesame Chicken with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Sesame Chicken is a delicious, healthier take on a classic dish that doesn’t skimp on flavour or satisfaction. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests at a dinner party. With this recipe in your culinary arsenal, you can enjoy the sweet and savoury delights of Chinese takeout, all from the comfort of your kitchen—and without the guilt! Give it a go, and you might just find yourself saying goodbye to takeaway menus for good. Happy cooking!

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