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['Close-up view of crispy sesame chicken with glossy sauce.', 'Side angle of juicy sesame chicken garnished with sesame seeds.', 'Appetizing plate of air-fried sesame chicken highlighting its crispy texture.', 'Detailed shot of sticky sesame chicken pieces on a serving plate.']
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Air Fryer Sesame Chicken — Crispy, Sticky, Healthier Takeout-Style Chicken

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450
This healthier take on classic sesame chicken features crispy, golden-brown bites coated in a flavorful sauce, all made conveniently in the air fryer.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 0.75 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 0.33 cup brown sugar
  • 0.25 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for sauce)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons chile paste (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions 

  • Marinate chicken with soy, vinegar, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper for 20 minutes.
  • Coat chicken in beaten eggs and cornstarch, then air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until golden.
  • Prepare sauce by mixing soy, vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil.
  • Cook garlic in vegetable oil, add sauce, and simmer until thickened. Toss with air-fried chicken.
  • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken longer or add more chili paste for heat.
Calories: 450kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: air fryer, Chicken, Sesame