There’s a certain joy that comes with recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home—especially when they taste even better than the original! I recently found myself craving that delicious Sesame Chicken from Pei Wei, but with the overwhelming options of fast food around me, I knew I needed a healthier, homemade alternative. That’s when I decided to whip up this Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Recipe, and let me tell you, the results were nothing short of miraculous!
Imagine succulent chicken thighs, perfectly coated and air-fried to crisp perfection, then tossed in a rich, sticky sauce bursting with savory-sweet flavors. With just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have, this quick and easy recipe transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary treat that will have your family asking for seconds! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this aromatic, flavor-packed adventure that’s sure to leave everyone satisfied and coming back for more!
Why Will You Love This Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Recipe?
Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, taking only about 15 minutes to cook!
Flavor Explosion: The perfect blend of soy sauce, orange juice, and hoisin creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the dish.
Healthier Twist: Skip the takeout and make a healthier version of your favorite dish without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table.
Versatility: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice for a complete meal.
Try it today and discover a new family favorite!
Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 1 pound chicken thighs – The richer flavor of thighs makes for a juicier dish compared to chicken breasts.
• 1/2 cup potato starch – This is key for achieving a crisp coating on the chicken.
For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds a delightful touch of caramel sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce – This is the savory backbone of the sauce, enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons orange juice – Freshens up the sauce with a citrus zing that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce – A deliciously sweet and thick sauce that brings depth to the flavor, mimicking the restaurant classic.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Adds a warm, spicy note that brightens the overall dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – This gives the sauce a savory richness without any chopping required.
• 1 tablespoon water – Helps to mix the cornstarch into the sauce without lumps.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Thicken the sauce for that perfect clingy texture.
For Garnishing (Optional)
• green onions – Chopped as a fresh, crispy topping to enhance presentation and flavor.
• sesame seeds – Adds a nutty crunch that complements the sauce and chicken beautifully.
Now that you have your Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Recipe ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this dish to life!
How to Make Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken
-
Cut the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb that delicious sauce.
-
Coat the Chicken: Place the diced chicken in a large bowl, add the potato starch, and mix it with your hands until each piece is well-coated. This coating will give your chicken that irresistible crunch.
-
Prepare the Air Fryer: Arrange the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer tray or basket, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking.
-
Oil the Chicken: Generously spray or brush the chicken with olive oil. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy texture we all love!
-
Air Fry the Chicken: Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. Remember to flip the chicken halfway through for even browning. Look for a beautifully crisp exterior!
-
Toss in Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked through, toss it in your prepared sauce until every piece is beautifully glazed. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Optional: Serve over rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken
-
Room Temperature: If you’ve just cooked your Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken, it can rest at room temperature for up to 2 hours but should be refrigerated after that.
-
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing to maintain its texture.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
-
Reheating: To enjoy your saved chicken, reheat in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F or until heated through. This will help retain its crispy texture!
What to Serve with Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken?
To create a delightful dining experience, pair your flavorful chicken with sides that complement its savory sweetness and rich texture.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every bite a comforting experience.
- Crispy Broccoli: The crunch of air-fried or roasted broccoli offers a fresh contrast to the tender chicken, elevating the meal.
- Savory Fried Rice: Incorporating peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs adds colorful bursts of flavor and a satisfying hearty element that pairs perfectly.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter twist, serve the chicken over spiralized zucchini, which adds freshness and a fun texture.
- Sesame Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing can cleanse the palate and enhance the dish’s nutty notes.
- Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad brightens the meal with its zesty kick, balancing the sweetness of the chicken beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy exterior of these fries harmonize wonderfully with the savory elements of the chicken.
- Chilled Green Tea: Sipping on this light beverage complements the meal while providing a soothing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Mango Sorbet: End your meal with a creamy, slightly tart dessert that refreshes the taste buds and rounds out the dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the chicken pieces in potato starch and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re ready for a quick cook. Additionally, you can mix up the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, toss it in the pre-made sauce, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for that fresh touch. This way, you save time and maintain that crispy deliciousness!
Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Variations
Feel free to mix things up and tailor this delightful recipe to your taste buds!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep the flavors while skipping the gluten. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t compromise taste.
-
Sweetener Swap: Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that lends a unique twist to the sauce. You’ll be amazed at how these options transform the flavor profile!
-
Heat Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy sizzle that gives the dish an exciting edge. This addition brightens up the flavor and can be adjusted to match your spice tolerance.
-
Veggie Boost: Toss in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas alongside the chicken for a vibrant, colorful stir-fry that enhances both nutrition and presentation. These veggies not only add texture but also brighten up the dish!
-
Marinade Magic: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for an hour before cooking. This step infuses the chicken with all that zesty goodness and elevates the dish to new savory heights.
-
Citrus Variations: Experiment with lime or pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a different fruity brightness that complements the savory elements beautifully. Each option offers a refreshing twist!
-
Noodle Delight: Serve the crispy chicken over lo mein or rice noodles instead of just rice for a fun, comforting twist that’ll appeal to the noodle lovers in your life. It turns your meal into a delightful noodle bowl that invites seconds!
-
Creamy Option: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter into the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor that adds richness and pairs beautifully with the chicken. It’s a wonderful way to indulge while savoring familiar flavors!
Expert Tips for Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken
-
Cut Evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are uniform (1-inch) for even cooking and a consistent crunch throughout.
-
Coat Generously: Don’t skimp on the potato starch! A thorough coating is essential for that crispy exterior you’re aiming for.
-
Oil Wisely: Use enough olive oil to achieve a golden color; it’s key to preventing dryness. A light spray works well!
-
Check for Doneness: Make sure to flip halfway through cooking; this helps achieve a perfect crisp on all sides of the chicken.
-
Customize Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients or add your favorite veggies to make this Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat your own!
Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump with a rich, dark color and minimal fat. The skin should be smooth, and you should avoid any packages that have a lot of liquid or dark spots. Fresh chicken will have a neutral smell, while any off-odors indicate it’s best left at the store.
What’s the best way to store leftover sesame chicken?
To store your Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken, place any leftovers in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely. In the refrigerator, it can be safely kept for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it reach room temperature before sealing it up; this helps keep that delightful crispy texture!
Can I freeze my sesame chicken?
Very! To freeze your Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container (removing as much air as possible). It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F for that crispy finish.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there are a few tips to troubleshoot. First, ensure you coated the chicken evenly with potato starch. If it’s not crisping up in the air fryer, try increasing the cooking time by a couple of minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning. Flipping the chicken halfway during cooking promotes an even crisp. Also, don’t forget to use enough olive oil—this step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crunch!
Is this sesame chicken recipe suitable for those with food allergies?
The Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken contains soy sauce, which is a common allergen. If you or your guests have soy allergies, you may substitute with coconut aminos for a similar flavor without the allergens. Additionally, double-check the hoisin sauce as it can contain various allergens depending on the brand. Always read labels to ensure all ingredients align with dietary needs!
Can I add vegetables to this sesame chicken?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely add your favorite vegetables to the Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken. Consider bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrients. Simply sauté them briefly before tossing in with the cooked chicken and sauce—it makes for a beautiful and colorful meal!
Crispy Easy Pei Wei Sesame Chicken Copycat Made Simple
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the sauce.
- Place the diced chicken in a large bowl, add potato starch, and mix until each piece is well-coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer tray or basket in a single layer.
- Generously spray or brush the chicken with olive oil for a golden, crispy texture.
- Set the air fryer to cook at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Once cooked through, toss the chicken in prepared sauce and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.