Air Fryer Fakeaway – Sticky Sesame Chicken

This sticky sesame chicken is a popular recipe from my latest book Air Fryer 30 Minute Meals. Probably one of my favourite fakeaway dishes as it has all the satisfaction of your favourite takeaway, without the guilt. Pair it with tender egg noodles and steamed pak choi for a complete meal.

Can you make sesame chicken in the air fryer?

Making sesame chicken in the air fryer is one of the easiest ways to enjoy this classic Chinese takeaway dish at home. It delivers crispy, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and savoury sticky sesame sauce—without the excess oil of deep frying. It’s a perfect fakeaway option for a healthier dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavour.

Is air fryer sesame chicken healthier than takeaway?

Absolutely. Traditional sesame chicken is usually deep-fried and coated in a high-sugar sauce. The air fryer allows you to cook the chicken with minimal oil while still achieving a crispy coating. Plus, when you make your own fakeaway sesame chicken at home, you control the ingredients—reducing sugar, salt, and fat content.

How do I get crispy chicken in the air fryer?

To get that crispy sesame chicken texture in the air fryer:

• Coat chicken pieces in cornflour or a mix of cornflour and plain flour
• Spray lightly with oil
• Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed
• Flip halfway through cooking for even crisping

This gives the chicken a perfect crunch before tossing in the sticky sesame sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs for air fryer sesame chicken?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work brilliantly for air fryer sesame chicken. They stay juicy and tender inside, even after crisping in the air fryer. Chicken breast also works if you prefer leaner meat—it’s all down to personal taste for your fakeaway night.

@boredoflunch

Airfryer Crispy Sesame Chicken 😮‍💨 🍗 🌶️ Probably the best & easiest fakeaway you’ll make in your airfryer, sticky sweet & crispy chicken balls. If you love easy recipes like this preorder my new Slowcooker book, currently £10 on Amazon 🙌🏼 📕 (Link in bio) Ingredients – 300g chicken coated in – 3 tbsp flour – 1 beaten egg – 100g panko breadcrumbs or cornflakes Sauce – 1 tsp sesame oil – 2 tbsp soy sauce – 3 tbsp honey – 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce – 1 tsp rice wine – 1/2 a tsp 5 Spice – 3 tbsp sriracha Method 1. Coat the chicken in the flour, then the egg & breadcrumbs 2. Spray with oil and airfry for 14 mins at 200 3. Mix the sauce together, add to airfryer basket and shake then airfry for another 2 minutes – alternatively stir on a pan Top with sesame seeds, spring onions & chilli. Recipe serves 3 #fakeaway #sesame #chicken #airfried #airfryerrecipe #airfryer #easyrecipes #food #recipe #recipes #moneysaving #budget #budgeting #easymeals #easy #food #viral #tiktok #tok

♬ Good Love – 220 KID

Can I meal prep air fryer sesame chicken?

Definitely. Cook the chicken in the air fryer and store separately from the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crisp, then toss it in the sauce. This keeps your fakeaway sesame chicken tasting fresh and delicious all week.

Can I make air fryer sesame chicken gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free sesame chicken in the air fryer, simply:

• Use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari)
• Make sure your cornflour and other ingredients are gluten-free
• Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs (if using a breadcrumb coating)

You’ll still get the same sticky, crispy fakeaway finish—just without the gluten.

What should I serve with air fryer sesame chicken?

Turn your air fryer sesame chicken fakeaway into a full meal by serving it with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Egg fried rice (air fryer or stovetop)
• Air fryer broccoli or stir-fried vegetables
• Spring rolls or dumplings

This brings the full fakeaway night experience to your kitchen—minus the delivery wait.