By Wendy Stoltz, Gusti Ayu Wahyuni Mertawati / Last Modified On August 24, 2023

This gluten-free sesame chicken recipe features crispy, tender chicken bites marinated to perfection, coated in a delicate blend of cassava flour and white rice flour batter, and fried to a golden brown crunch. This dish is elevated further by a tantalizing sauce, so get ready to enjoy a flavorful, gluten-free twist on a classic takeout favorite.

Discover a variety of tasty gluten-free Asian-inspired chicken recipes that will redefine your fakeaway dining experience. From the savory notes of Gluten-Free Teriyaki Chicken to the Gluten-Free Sweet and Sour Chicken and the zesty kick of Gluten-Free Orange Chicken. These dishes showcase the diverse world of gluten-free cooking. Elevate your Gluten-Free Chicken game with flavors that pack a punch.

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Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken Recipe

Imagine juicy chicken pieces soaking up a blend of yogurt and sesame oil. This simple step infuses them with a mouthwatering taste. But the magic doesn't stop there. Our Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken boasts a coating made from cassava flour, white rice flour, and cornstarch mixed with chicken broth. This batter creates a thick yet fluid shell that crisps up beautifully when fried. It delivers the perfect crunch in every bite.

The sauce is where the magic happens. Mix tamari, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil blends to create a medley of flavors. With minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, this sauce perfectly combines savory and sweet. It pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken.

This Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken is more than just a recipe; it's an invitation to enjoy a scrumptious fakeaway in the comfort of your home. So, gather your ingredients, and let's create this dish.

Why You’re Going to Love These Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken

Irresistible crunchiness - Sink your teeth into perfectly crispy chicken coated with a unique cassava flour and white rice flour batter blend.

Flavor fusion - Experience a great taste with our savory and slightly sweet sauce, where tamari, honey, and rice vinegar mingle effortlessly.

Quick Marination - In just 30 minutes, transform chicken into flavorful perfection by marinating with a blend of yogurt and sesame oil, setting the stage for a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients in Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken

For the Chicken and Coating

Chicken Breast - Tender and boneless chicken breast form the heart of this dish, providing a protein-rich source for the flavors to shine.

Gluten-Free Coating - A blend of cassava flour, corn starch, white rice flour, salt, black pepper, and baking powder forms a gluten-free coating that delivers that sought-after crispy texture.

Chicken Broth - The chicken broth not only adds moisture but infuses the coating with savory depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs - These gluten-free bread crumbs create the irresistible crunch that envelops each piece of chicken.

For The Sesame Sauce

Sauce - A harmonious blend of tamari (or gluten-free soy sauce), chicken broth, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and roasted sesame seeds forms the luscious sesame sauce that coats the chicken.

Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken

The right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and helps you achieve your Gluten-Free Chicken dish's desired texture and flavors. So here is what you need:

Mixing Bowls - You'll need mixing bowls to prepare the chicken marinade, coating batter, and sesame sauce.

Whisk - A whisk will help you smoothly combine ingredients like yogurt, sesame oil, and chicken broth, ensuring a consistent batter and sauce.

Deep Fryer or Heavy Bottom Pan - To achieve that perfectly crispy coating, a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan with sufficient oil for frying is essential.

Cooking Thermometer - If using a pan, a cooking thermometer ensures that the oil reaches the right temperature for frying, leading to optimal results.

Wok or Skillet - A wok or skillet is ideal for sautéing garlic and ginger and creating the sesame sauce.

Slotted Spoon or Tongs - You'll need these utensils to carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil and remove them once they're fried to golden perfection.

If you have any questions about making Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Make Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken

1. Mix chicken, salt, ground black pepper, yogurt, and sesame oil in a bowl. Mix well and set aside. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix cassava flour, cornstarch, white rice flour, salt, ground black pepper, and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken broth and mix well. The batter will be thick yet have a smooth and flowing consistency.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated. After dipping, gently lift the chicken from the batter and proceed to coat it evenly with breadcrumbs. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.
4. Heat oil in a heavy bottom pan or deep fryer over low heat.
5. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary, ensuring an even cooking process. Cook until the coating turns a beautiful golden brown, indicating its crispiness. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, then allow it to cool.
6. Mix tamari sauce, chicken broth, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
7. Heat the oil using a wok or deep skillet, then saute the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
8. Pour in the sauce mixture and red pepper flakes. Mix well until it has boiled.
9. Once the mixture reaches a boiling point, swiftly incorporate and thoroughly blend the cornstarch mixture. Allow the mixture to boil briefly, ensuring the desired consistency is achieved.
10. Add in the fried chicken and coat all the chicken with the mixture. Add the sesame seeds and mix well. Take it off the heat and serve while hot. Top with sliced green onion and sesame seeds. Serve with rice.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken

These expert tips will help you craft the best Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken with a delightful balance of textures and flavors:

Preheat Oil Adequately - Ensure the oil is heated correctly before frying the chicken to achieve optimum crispiness and avoid greasiness.

Thoroughly Coat Chicken - Make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the batter and breadcrumbs for consistent frying results.

Adjust Spice Level - Tailor the red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness in the sesame sauce for a personalized touch.

Monitor Oil Temperature - If frying in a pan, use a cooking thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature, resulting in perfectly fried chicken.

Let Chicken Cool - Allow the fried chicken to cool slightly before tossing it in the sesame sauce; this prevents excess moisture from affecting its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Store Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken?

Store any leftover Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can be safely stored for up to 2-3 days. Consider using an oven or air fryer to reheat to ensure you have a crispy texture.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken. To freeze, place the cooked and cooled chicken and sauce in separate airtight, freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remember to separate the chicken layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven to restore its crispiness, and warm the sauce in a pot. Combine the chicken and sauce once both have been heated up sufficiently.

Can You Make This Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, preparing Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken ahead of time is possible. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce components in advance. However, it's recommended to coat the chicken with the sauce just before serving to maintain the desired crispiness. Reheat the chicken gently and combine it with the sauce for a delicious dinner recipe.

What Substitutions / Replacements Can I Make in This GF Sesame Chicken?

As with anything, you can substitute as you like, but here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Chicken Broth - Consider using vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or a different broth for an altered flavor profile.

Spice Level - Adjust the red pepper flakes to your personal preference, dialing up or toning down the spiciness.

Serving Base - Instead of rice, pair the sesame chicken with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a different dining experience.

Chicken Alternative - For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Sauce Tweaks - Play with the sauce ingredients, like using tamari for a richer flavor or swapping honey for maple syrup for a distinct sweetness.

What to Serve with Healthy Sesame Chicken?

You can serve your GF Chinese chicken in a variety of ways. Here are a few of our favorites:

Steamed Jasmine Rice - The fragrant, fluffy texture of steamed jasmine rice is an ideal side to the savory notes of the sesame chicken. Its subtle taste makes the dish's flavors shine while providing a neutral base.

Stir-Fried Vegetables - A colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables adds a burst of freshness and nutrients to your meal. 

Cauliflower Rice - Cauliflower rice is a fantastic choice for a lower-carb alternative. Its neutral taste pairs well with the bold flavors of the sesame chicken, offering a guilt-free and nutritious option.

Gluten-Free Fried Rice - We love adding a gluten-free fried rice side as it is packed with colorful veggies, protein, and a hint of soy sauce. This flavorful option adds a hearty twist to your sesame chicken.

Sesame Gluten-Free Noodles - Elevate the sesame theme by serving the chicken alongside sesame noodles. These delicate strands absorb the sauce beautifully, infusing every bite with an extra layer of flavor.

Asian Slaw - The refreshing crunch of an Asian slaw provides a great contrast to the tender chicken. The slaw's zesty dressing complements the savory profile of the dish, creating a well-rounded palate experience.

How To Make The Best Gluten-Free Chinese Chicken Sauce?

The key to elevating your Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken lies in mastering the art of creating the perfect sauce. Here's how you can ensure your sauce is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, enhancing the overall experience of your dish:

• Balanced Blend - Start by combining tamari (or gluten-free soy sauce), honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. These ingredients lay the foundation for a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between umami and sweetness, enriching the flavors of your chicken.
• Aromatics Upgrade - Infuse your sauce with finely minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. These aromatic additions bring depth and complexity, elevating the sauce from basic to extraordinary.
• Red Pepper Kick - Add a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle hint of heat. This ingredient adds a delicate kick that complements the savory and sweet elements.
• Cornstarch Mixture - Create a smooth texture by mixing cornstarch with water. This mixture is a thickening agent, giving your sauce the perfect consistency to coat your chicken.
• Boil and Thicken - Once your sauce is combined, heat it in a wok or deep skillet until it boils. Then, introduce the cornstarch mixture, stirring vigorously to ensure proper incorporation. Watch as your sauce thickens and takes on a lustrous shine.

What Other Ways Can You Bread Chicken?

There's more than one way to achieve that coveted crispy exterior when it comes to breading chicken.

Here are a few techniques to consider, each offering a unique texture and flavor profile:

Double-Dip - For an even heartier crunch, try the double-dip method. After coating your chicken in the flour mixture, dip it back into the marinade for a second round. This double layer of moisture and coating creates a substantial crunch that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Nutty Coating - Want to experiment with flavors? Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or cashews into your coating mixture. This adds a nutty crunch and an extra dimension of taste that complements the sesame flavors.

Panko - If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, consider using gluten-free panko crumbs. These larger, airy breadcrumbs create an exceptionally crispy crust that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken inside.

 Did you make this Gluten-Free Sesame Chicken recipe? Please leave me a comment below, letting me know what you think.