Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips Recipe

Are you craving a flavorful twist on your favorite Asian-inspired dish? Dive into the delicious world of Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips! This delightful recipe brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a touch of heat, making it a sure-hit for any family dinner or gathering. With tender, juicy chicken coated in a luscious whiskey glaze and topped with nutty sesame seeds, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Wondering how to put your spin on this delectable dish? Consider experimenting with different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, for a unique flair. Additionally, feel free to tweak the glaze by adjusting the sweetness or adding your favorite spices to match your palate.

To achieve the perfect crunch on your chicken strips, ensure your oil is hot enough during frying and don’t overcrowd the pan. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your loved ones with this crowd-pleasing, copycat recipe that’s sure to become a regular at your dining table!

Ingredients for Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips:

To create a delectable batch of Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips that serves 8–10 people, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. This recipe combines savory, sweet, and a hint of heat to elevate your chicken strips, making them perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering. Below are the essential components categorized for better organization.

For the Chicken Strips:

• 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch strips)
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups of breadcrumbs (Panko is preferred for extra crunch)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Whiskey Glaze:

• 1 cup of whiskey (your choice of bourbon or rye)
• 1/2 cup of soy sauce
• 1/3 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of honey
• 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

For Garnishing:

• 3 tablespoons of sesame seeds (toasted for nutty flavor)
• 2 green onions (finely sliced)
• Chopped cilantro (optional, for added freshness)

Alternative Ingredients and Variations:

• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding sriracha or chili sauce to the whiskey glaze.
• For a citrus twist, incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the glaze.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to whip up your very own Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips. Enjoy the process and the flavorful results!

How to prepare Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips:

Follow these straightforward steps to create delicious Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips in the comfort of your kitchen.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients. You will need chicken breasts, whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, sesame seeds, and green onions. Measure everything accurately for the best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take the chicken breasts and slice them into thin strips. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

After marination, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Set up a breading station with cornstarch in one bowl and beaten eggs in another. Dip each chicken strip first into the cornstarch, shaking off any excess, then into the egg mixture.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken strips, cooking them in batches if necessary. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Step 6: Make the Whiskey Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine leftover marinade, and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to bubble and reduce for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once the chicken strips are cooked, remove them from the oil, and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Drizzle the whiskey glaze over the chicken strips and gently toss to coat evenly.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Transfer the glazed chicken strips to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions to garnish. Serve immediately with steamed rice or your choice of side.

This method ensures your Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips are flavorful, crispy, and a hit at any meal!

Tips for the Perfect Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Maintain the Right Temperature

To achieve crispy chicken strips, oil temperature is crucial. Heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C). A food thermometer can help monitor the temperature effectively. If the oil is too cool, the chicken won’t crisp up, and if it’s too hot, it may burn before cooking through. Cook the strips in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much. This technique ensures each piece has ample space and cooks evenly, maximizing that desired crunch.

Use Quality Ingredients for the Best Flavor

Quality ingredients elevate any dish, and these chicken strips are no exception. Opt for fresh, organic chicken breast instead of pre-packaged versions to enhance flavor and tenderness. For the whiskey glaze, use a good-quality whiskey to ensure deeper notes and richer undertones. Fresh garlic and ginger can add vibrant flavors, so consider grating them instead of using premade versions. This small effort can make a noticeable difference in the final taste.

Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions

If you have dietary restrictions, substitutions can still keep your meal enjoyable. For gluten-free options, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. Make sure your whiskey also meets gluten-free standards. Those avoiding sugar can use a sugar substitute or honey-like alternative to balance the flavors in the glaze. For a low-carb version, you may want to skip the breading and use slices of chicken marinated in the glaze, grilled to perfection instead.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

Want to amp up the flavor profile? Consider adding chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds right before serving adds crunch and an appealing visual touch. If you enjoy a hint of sweetness, incorporate a small amount of brown sugar in the marinade to create a more caramelized finish upon cooking.

Keeping these tips in mind will help you create the most delightful dish. With practice, you’ll master this recipe and impress friends and family alike with your culinary skills!

Storage Tips for Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips:

Maintain Freshness of Chicken Strips

To keep your chicken strips fresh, allow them to cool completely before storing. When hot strips go into the fridge, they create steam, leading to sogginess and loss of texture. Once cooled, pack the chicken strips in an airtight container. Using a container helps to lock in moisture and keeps unwanted odors out. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper or wax paper if stacking strips to avoid them sticking together.

Optimal Storage Conditions

Store the chicken strips in the refrigerator for the best results. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Keeping your refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) slows down bacterial growth and keeps your food safe. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the strips in a freezer-friendly bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags with the date for easy reference.

Shelf Life of Chicken Strips

When stored properly, frozen chicken strips maintain their best quality for about 2 to 3 months. Beyond this period, they may lose flavor and texture but remain safe to eat. To reheat frozen strips, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in an oven or air fryer for crispy results. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crunchy outside of the chicken strips, as microwaving can make them chewy.

Additional Tips for Reheating

For the best reheating experience, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken strips on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will restore crispy texture. If using an air fryer, heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you will enjoy delicious, Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips even after the first serving. Enjoy your tasty dish repeatedly without compromising quality!

Related Recipes

If you enjoy the bold flavors of Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips, you will appreciate these complementary dishes. Each of them brings a unique twist that pairs well with the sweet and savory notes of whiskey and sesame.

• Sesame Crusted Tofu Bites: These bite-sized tofu snacks feature a crunchy sesame coating. Their texture contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken strips, providing a vegan option for your meal. The combination of sesame flavors enhances the overall dining experience, making it enjoyable for everyone.
• Honey Garlic Shrimp: This dish offers a sweeter glaze similar to the whiskey glaze. With succulent shrimp sautéed in a honey-garlic sauce, it delivers a delightful taste that complements the chicken strips. The vibrant flavors of the shrimp can elevate your meal and provide a seafood counterpart to your chicken.
• Asian-style Broccoli Slaw: A fresh and crunchy side, this slaw brings brightness to your plate. The crisp vegetables and a sesame dressing balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Including this slaw will add a refreshing crunch that cleanses the palate between bites.
• Teriyaki Vegetable Stir-Fry: This stir-fry incorporates seasonal vegetables with a savory teriyaki glaze. The umami flavors pair excellently with the chicken strips, and the colorful mix of vegetables adds visual appeal. This dish rounds out the meal while ensuring you get your daily dose of greens.

These recipes enhance the experience of enjoying Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips, providing a variety of flavors and textures. Consider serving them together for a delicious and balanced spread!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips?

Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips are delectable chicken tenders coated in a savory and sweet whiskey-infused glaze, often resembling popular restaurant-style dishes. They are typically breaded, fried, or baked, and finished with a glossy sauce that combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, whiskey, sesame oil, and other ingredients, resulting in a delightful culinary experience.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While the traditional recipe uses chicken, you can easily substitute other proteins, such as turkey or pork, to create a similar dish. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the choice of meat, so adjust accordingly to ensure the protein is thoroughly cooked.

Is it possible to make the recipe gluten-free?

Yes, transforming this dish into a gluten-free version is straightforward. Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and opt for gluten-free breading options. This ensures that those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy delicious whiskey-glazed chicken strips without any concerns.

How can I achieve a crispy coating on my chicken strips?

To achieve a crispy texture, it’s essential to use a combination of techniques. Double-breading the chicken strips can enhance crunchiness; first dipping them in seasoned flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally coating them with breadcrumbs. Frying at the right temperature, usually around 350°F, will also help in achieving that perfect crisp.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the whiskey glaze in advance. Simply combine all the necessary ingredients and store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to cook your chicken strips, just reheat the glaze in a saucepan until it reaches the desired consistency.

What can I serve with Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips?

This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside steamed rice, a fresh salad, or even stir-fried vegetables. The sweetness of the whiskey glaze also complements dishes like fried rice or noodles, making it a versatile option for your meal planning.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Copycat Whiskey-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips recipe delivers a delightful combination of flavors that is both simple and versatile. By following straightforward steps, you can transform basic chicken strips into a mouthwatering dish reminiscent of your favorite restaurant. The recipe allows room for customization; feel free to adjust the glaze’s sweetness or spice level to suit your palate. For a healthier version, consider baking the chicken strips instead of frying, while still enjoying that irresistible whiskey glaze. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins or dipping sauces to create your ideal meal. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also showcases your culinary creativity, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Embrace the simplicity and flexibility this recipe offers, and delight your family and friends with your own delicious take on this favorite!

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