Sweet and Spicy Sesame Chicken

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dry sherry
• 1 dash sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 4 (5 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup distilled white vinegar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon red chile paste (such as Thai Kitchen®)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Directions

1. Combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, dry sherry, a dash of sesame oil, flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water, baking powder, baking soda, and canola oil in a large bowl. Mix well; stir in chicken. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
3. Combine 1/2 cup water, chicken broth, vinegar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, red chili paste, and garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, constantly stirring. Turn heat to low and keep warm, occasionally stirring.
4. Fry marinated chicken in batches until cooked through and golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. Transfer chicken to a large platter, top with sauce, and sprinkle chicken with sesame seeds.