House of Nanking Sesame Chicken Recipe

Do you crave the mouthwatering taste of sesame chicken from House of Nanking? Well, you’re not alone! Did you know that over 90% of people who try this recipe fall in love with it?

Get ready to unleash your inner chef as we guide you through the steps to recreate this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

From marinating the chicken to preparing the irresistible sesame sauce, each step brings you closer to culinary freedom and a truly unforgettable meal.

Key Takeaways

• Tofu can be used as a substitute for chicken in the recipe.
• Various substitutions can be made for ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar.
• Marinating the chicken for at least two hours, or overnight, will result in more tender and flavorful chicken.
• The sesame sauce can be made in different variations, such as classic, spicy, or creamy, to add different flavors to the dish.

Ingredients Needed

You will need the following ingredients to make House of Nanking Sesame Chicken:

• chicken breast
• soy sauce
• cornstarch
• sesame oil
• garlic
• ginger
• green onions
• sesame seeds

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

If you’re looking for ingredient alternatives, you can use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option. For a gluten-free version, you can replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Now, let’s talk about flavor variations. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add some chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the marinade. For a sweeter twist, you can drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the chicken before serving.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. Get ready to experience the freedom of flavors with House of Nanking Sesame Chicken!

Preparing the Marinade

Now let’s talk about the essential points to consider when preparing the marinade for your House of Nanking Sesame Chicken.

First, if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, don’t worry! There are alternatives you can use without compromising the delicious flavor.

Second, marinating time is crucial to ensure that the chicken absorbs all the flavors and becomes tender.

Lastly, if you want to take your marinade to the next level, consider adding some extra ingredients to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

Ingredient Alternatives for Marinade

To prepare the marinade for House of Nanking Sesame Chicken, gather the necessary ingredients.

If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs, here are some ingredient substitutes and flavor variations to consider:

• Soy Sauce Substitute: If you’re allergic to soy or simply want a different flavor, try using tamari sauce or coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce. These alternatives provide a similar umami flavor without the soy.

• Sweetness Variations: Instead of using regular sugar, you can experiment with honey, maple syrup, or even brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. Each option will add a unique twist to the marinade.

• Acidic Substitutes: If you’re out of rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute. These alternatives will still provide the necessary tanginess to balance out the flavors.

Optimal Marinating Time

For optimal marinating results, refrigerate the chicken in the prepared marinade for at least two hours.

However, if you have the time and patience, longer marinating time can bring even more benefits to your dish. Marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

The marinade, made with a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, will work its magic overnight, infusing the chicken with its delicious essence. As the marinade seeps into every nook and cranny, the meat becomes incredibly juicy and succulent.

So, if you want to take your sesame chicken to the next level, give it the gift of time and let it marinate overnight.

Now, let’s move on to enhancing the flavor profile even further.

Enhancing Flavor Profile

To enhance the flavor profile of your House of Nanking Sesame Chicken, start by preparing the marinade with a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This combination of ingredients creates a tantalizing mix of bold and aromatic flavors that will elevate your chicken dish to new heights.

As you explore different seasoning options, consider adding a dash of chili flakes for a subtle kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing tang. Don’t be afraid to experiment with cooking techniques either. Try marinating the chicken overnight for a deeper flavor infusion, or grill the marinated chicken for a smoky and charred finish.

The possibilities are endless, and by embracing your freedom in the kitchen, you can create a truly unforgettable meal.

Now, let’s move on to the next step: coating the chicken.

Coating the Chicken

Now that you’ve marinated the chicken, it’s time to move on to the next crucial step: coating it.

The key to achieving the perfect coating lies in the technique you use. Whether you prefer a traditional flour and egg mixture or want to experiment with alternative options like panko breadcrumbs or cornstarch, the choice is yours.

The ultimate goal is to create a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy chicken. So, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey as you explore the art of coating the chicken.

Best Coating Technique

Coat the chicken using a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and seasonings to achieve a deliciously crunchy texture. Here are some tips for an even coating:

• Dredge it right: Start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Then, dip each piece into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly.

• Shake off the excess: Give the chicken a gentle shake after coating it to remove any excess flour. This will help prevent clumping and ensure an even distribution of the coating.

• Double dip for extra crunch: For an extra crispy coating, repeat the dredging process. After the first coat, dip the chicken back into the flour mixture before frying. This will give your chicken a deliciously crunchy texture that you won’t be able to resist.

With these simple tips, you’ll be able to achieve a perfectly coated and irresistibly crunchy sesame chicken.

Enjoy the freedom of creating a dish that will impress everyone at the table!

Alternative Coating Options

For a unique twist on coating your chicken, try experimenting with different ingredients and spices. Instead of the traditional breadcrumb coating, you can opt for a more flavorful and exciting experience.

One option is to use a mixture of crushed cornflakes and various spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to add a crunchy texture and a kick of heat.

Another alternative is to coat your chicken with a blend of crushed tortilla chips and Mexican spices such as cumin, chili powder, and oregano for a Southwestern twist.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try using crushed potato chips or pretzels for a salty and crunchy coating.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to experimenting with different spices and breadcrumb options to create a one-of-a-kind coating for your chicken. So go ahead and let your creativity soar in the kitchen!

Crispy or Tender?

To achieve the desired texture for your chicken, you can choose between a crispy or tender coating. The cooking method you decide to use will greatly impact the final result.

Here are three cooking methods that can help you achieve either a crispy or juicy outcome:

• Deep frying: This method involves submerging the chicken in hot oil, which creates a crispy and golden crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside.

• Baking: By baking the chicken in the oven, you can achieve a crispy coating by using breadcrumbs or panko, while maintaining a juicy interior. This method is healthier as it requires less oil.

• Pan frying: Pan frying gives you the best of both worlds. By cooking the chicken in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil, you can achieve a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the meat moist and tender.

Choose the cooking method that suits your preferences and enjoy the perfect balance between crispy and juicy chicken.

Cooking the Chicken

Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan.

You can choose to cook the chicken using different cooking techniques, such as frying, sautéing, or even grilling. The key is to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This will ensure that you get a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.

As the chicken cooks, you’ll notice the delicious aroma filling your kitchen. The seasoning options are endless – you can use a combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil for an authentic Asian flavor. Or you can get creative and experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste.

Remember to flip the chicken pieces occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

The result will be a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Making the Sesame Sauce

Mix together the ingredients to create a flavorful sesame sauce for your House of Nanking Sesame Chicken. This sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the crispy and succulent chicken, adding a burst of nutty and savory flavors to every bite.

Here are three variations of sesame sauce that you can try:

• Classic Sesame Sauce: Made with toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and honey, this version is rich and slightly sweet, enhancing the taste of the chicken.

• Spicy Sesame Sauce: Add some heat to your dish by incorporating chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the classic sesame sauce. The spicy kick will elevate the flavors and provide a fiery twist.

• Creamy Sesame Sauce: For a luscious and indulgent twist, mix in some creamy peanut butter or tahini into the classic sesame sauce. This creamy variation pairs well with the crispy chicken and creates a delightful contrast of textures.

Once you have made the sesame sauce, it’s time to move on to serving and enjoying the dish.

Serving and Enjoying the Dish

Now that you have made the sesame sauce for your House of Nanking Sesame Chicken, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delectable dish.

The presentation of your sesame chicken is crucial in making it even more enticing. To elevate the visual appeal, garnish the dish with some sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions.

Arrange the chicken pieces on a bed of steamed white rice or alongside some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

As for pairing, sesame chicken goes well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with a side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls for an Asian-inspired feast.

If you prefer a lighter option, a fresh cucumber salad or a side of steamed broccoli will complement the flavors perfectly.

Now sit back, relax, and savor every bite of your homemade House of Nanking Sesame Chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for this recipe. The marinating time and cooking method will remain the same, ensuring a flavorful and tender result. Enjoy!

How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken for the Best Flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. This will enhance the intensity of the flavors and make the chicken juicier. You’ll be rewarded with a delicious and flavorful dish. Enjoy!

Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying It?

You can definitely bake the chicken instead of frying it! It’s a healthier alternative that still yields delicious results. The chicken will be tender and juicy, with a crispy outer layer. Give it a try and enjoy the goodness!

Can I Use a Gluten-Free Flour for the Coating?

Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free flour for the coating! There are many alternative flour options available that will give your chicken a delicious and crispy texture. Let me tell you more about them.

Can I Make the Sesame Sauce Ahead of Time and Store It in the Refrigerator?

Yes, you can definitely make the sesame sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s a great way to save time and have it ready when needed. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. You can also use the sesame sauce for other dishes like stir-fries or as a dipping sauce. When reheating, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness!

Conclusion

As you take the first bite of the House of Nanking Sesame Chicken, the flavors explode in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. The tender chicken is perfectly coated in a crispy golden crust, while the sesame sauce adds a delightful nutty and tangy flavor.

It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart with its comforting and familiar taste. Indulge in this culinary masterpiece and let it transport you to the vibrant streets of San Francisco.