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Air Fryer Sesame Chicken: A Delicious and Healthier Take on a Classic Favourite

In recent years, air fryers have surged in popularity, making it easier than ever to prepare crispy and flavourful dishes without the guilt of deep frying. One dish that has become a favourite for air fryer enthusiasts is sesame chicken. This delightful recipe combines tender pieces of chicken with a sticky, sweet, and nutty sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. In this article, we’ll explore how to make air fryer sesame chicken that is both delicious and healthier than the traditional deep-fried version.

Why Choose Air Fryer Sesame Chicken?

Traditionally, sesame chicken is a stir-fried or batter-fried dish, often laden with excess oil and calories. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that coveted crispness while significantly reducing the amount of oil needed. Not only does this method make the dish lower in fat, but it also helps retain the chicken’s moisture, resulting in tender pieces packed with flavour. The air fryer allows the chicken to cook evenly, giving it that delightful golden-brown colour without compromising on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a delectable air fryer sesame chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Sliced spring onions, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Marinate: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for a few hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavour.

2. Coat with Cornstarch: After marinating, sprinkle the chicken pieces with cornstarch and toss well to coat. This will give your chicken extra crispiness when air-fried.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Cook: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for approximately 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small saucepan over low heat. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Toss: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and pour the sauce over the top. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.

2. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and add sliced spring onions for a fresh touch.

3. Serve: Serve your air fryer sesame chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer sesame chicken is a fantastic way to indulge in a beloved takeaway classic without the added guilt of deep frying. With its perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours, and its pleasing crunch, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a versatile recipe that can be adapted with your favourite vegetables or served with different sides.

Next time you’re craving something special, consider whipping up this air fryer sesame chicken; it may just become a staple in your household! Enjoy the delightful taste and the health benefits that come with this modern twist on a beloved dish.

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