Delicious spicy sesame chicken garnished with sesame seeds and green onions

Spicy Sesame Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Introduction

Spicy Sesame Chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a savory and slightly spicy marinade. Cooked in an air fryer, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun get-together with friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This Spicy Sesame Chicken recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick to make, taking only about 20 minutes to cook once you prep the ingredients. Second, the combination of flavors, including the heat from the sambal or chili oil and the nutty sesame oil, makes for a mouth-watering dish that everyone will love. Lastly, using an air fryer means you get that crispy texture without the excess oil, making it a healthier option while still being incredibly satisfying.

How to Make Spicy Sesame Chicken

Ingredients

  • 8 boneless chicken thighs (skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 3 cloves of minced garlic
  • 2 stalks of green onions (White and green separated. Green part for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp of sambal or chili oil (I love using Momofuku Chili Crisp for this)

Directions

  1. Prep your marinade: Mince your garlic, and cut your green onions, separating the white and green parts. Use the green part for garnish.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees.
  3. Trim your boneless chicken thighs.
  4. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix well to ensure the chicken is fully coated.
  5. Line your air fryer tray or basket with parchment paper.
  6. Place the chicken thighs skin side up on the tray.
  7. Air fry at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches over 165 degrees before serving.

How to Serve Spicy Sesame Chicken

Serve the Spicy Sesame Chicken with a sprinkle of the green parts of the green onions on top for added color and flavor. It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh salad. You can also add a side of vegetables for a full meal.

How to Store Spicy Sesame Chicken

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will be good for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer or use a microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Spicy Sesame Chicken

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before cooking.
  • Adjust the level of spice to your liking by adding more or less sambal or chili oil.
  • Ensure your air fryer is fully preheated for the best cooking results.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this recipe using tofu or tempeh. Marinate and cook them the same way as the chicken, adjusting the cooking time as necessary, since they may not take as long to cook.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may cook faster. Check the internal temperature earlier to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400 degrees for about 25-30 minutes.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option for the soy sauce?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for low-sodium soy sauce.