Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Crispy air fryer sesame chicken made with boneless chicken thighs and coated in a sweet and sticky sesame sauce. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and garlic for bold flavor. A healthier alternative to deep-fried takeout, perfect with boiled or fried rice for a quick dinner at home. Ready in under 30 minutes and ideal for meal prep.

Crispy air-fried chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful sesame sauce — this takeout-style sesame chicken is quick, easy, and made healthier in the air fryer. Serve it with rice and vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 6 large skinless chicken thigh fillets (approx. 750g untrimmed or 600g trimmed), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 3 tbsp oil (vegetable or neutral)

For the Sesame Sauce

• 1½ tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 fresh cloves, minced)
• 1½ tbsp Chinese rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
• 4 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 3 tbsp light brown sugar
• 3 tbsp light soy sauce
• 3 tbsp dark soy sauce

To Serve

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped spring onions (scallions)
• Boiled or egg fried rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken
   Trim off any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut into bite-sized chunks.
2. Coat the chicken
   In a bowl, mix cornflour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated.
3. Add oil and air-fry
   Drizzle the oil over the coated chicken and mix until the pieces look sticky and well coated.
   Place in the air fryer basket and cook at 190°C (375°F) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket 2–3 times during cooking. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and golden. Work in batches if needed.
4. Make the sesame sauce
   Combine all sauce ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring every minute until the sauce is hot and slightly thickened. (Alternatively, heat in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly.)
5. Combine and serve
   Toss the cooked chicken in the warm sesame sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions. Serve hot with your choice of rice.

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Tips

• Cut chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
• Shaking the air fryer basket while cooking helps avoid sticking and ensures crispiness.
• Sauce can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
• Add a teaspoon of cornstarch to the sauce if you want it thicker.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken breast: Can be used, but thighs stay juicier in the air fryer.
• Low-sugar version: Reduce or skip the brown sugar and honey.
• Spicy version: Add extra chilli sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Soy-free: Use coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative.

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen chicken?
Thaw completely before coating and cooking for best texture and even cooking.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (355°F) for 5–6 minutes or microwave until hot.

Can I cook the sauce in a pan instead of the microwave?
Yes, simmer the sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring often, until thickened.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with boiled jasmine rice or egg fried rice.
• Add steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or bok choy.
• Garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced chillies for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flavorful without deep frying
• Quick and easy weeknight dinner
• Rich, sticky sesame sauce made with pantry staples
• Healthier than traditional takeout and packed with bold flavor