Sweet and Spicy Chicken Sticks

Steps

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1. 1
   Remove the skin from the chicken breast (optional). Cut into the thicker sections and butterfly them to even out thickness. Pierce the entire surface with a fork to help seasoning penetrate.
   ▶ ≈1:54
2. 2
   Using a slicing technique, cut the chicken into pieces about 1.5 cm wide, then cut lengthwise into sticks approximately 1 to 1.5 cm wide.
   ▶ ≈2:35
3. 3
   Place chicken in a dish or plastic bag. Rub in the sugar thoroughly until it's completely absorbed and the meat becomes shiny. Add sake, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in sequence, and massage everything together until well combined.
   ▶ ≈3:01
4. 4
   Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
   ▶ ≈3:47
5. 5
   After 15 minutes, remove the plastic wrap. Coat the chicken evenly with potato starch, gently shaking off excess as you go.
   ▶ ≈3:58
6. 6
   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds. Carefully arrange the chicken sticks in the hot oil.
   ▶ ≈4:23
7. 7
   Maintain medium-low to medium heat. After about 2 minutes, flip and continue cooking until both sides are browned and the chicken is cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes total. Check the sides for even browning.
   ▶ ≈5:09
8. 8
   Remove the chicken sticks and set aside. Wipe away excess oil from the frying pan with paper towels.
   ▶ ≈6:19
9. 9
   Add soy sauce, mirin, water, sugar, and potato starch to the pan. Mix well before heating to prevent lumps.
   ▶ ≈6:29
10. 10
    Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce becomes translucent and thickens to a glossy consistency, about 1 minute.
    ▶ ≈6:50
11. 11
    Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add white sesame seeds. Toss quickly until the chicken is well coated with the glaze, then remove from heat.
    ▶ ≈7:13
12. 12
    Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy.
    ▶ ≈7:31