If you’re looking for a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare, this Easy Sesame Chicken recipe is just what you need. This delightful meal combines tender pieces of chicken with a rich and savory sauce featuring soy sauce and sesame oil. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love. Plus, the ingredients are simple and can be found in most grocery stores, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sesame Chicken

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

this recipe

Ingredients for Easy Sesame Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; it adds a rich depth of flavor to the dish

For the Sauce:

• Brown Sugar: This balances out the salty flavors from the soy sauce and adds caramelization when cooked
• Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce; ensure it’s well mixed before adding it to avoid lumps

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Sesame Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Stir until fully blended.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. You can also add chopped green onions if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if you like. Serve hot over rice or alongside steamed vegetables.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in soy sauce overnight before cooking

How to Serve Easy Sesame Chicken

This Easy Sesame Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor. Store the marinated chicken covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing; it lasts up to three months when properly sealed.
• Reheating: To reheat, place your Easy Sesame Chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Suggestions for Easy Sesame Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Easy Sesame Chicken. Stale or expired ingredients can significantly alter the taste and texture of your dish. Always use fresh chicken, vegetables, and spices to ensure that every bite bursts with flavor. Fresh ginger and garlic will give your sauce a vibrant kick, while crisp vegetables enhance the overall texture. Additionally, avoid using pre-packaged sauces, as they often contain preservatives and artificial flavors that can detract from the homemade quality of your dish. Take the time to select quality ingredients; it makes all the difference in creating a delicious meal.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Overcooking your chicken can lead to dry and tough pieces in your Easy Sesame Chicken. To avoid this common mistake, keep an eye on the cooking time and temperature. Cooking chicken quickly over high heat ensures that it remains juicy and tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you notice the chicken turning a golden brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly to allow it to cook evenly. Remember, it’s better to undercook slightly than to serve dry chicken.

Balance Your Sauce

Creating a well-balanced sauce is key to elevating your Easy Sesame Chicken. Too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty, while not enough can leave it bland. Aim for a harmonious blend of sweetness, saltiness, and acidity by adjusting the proportions of honey or sugar and vinegar in your sauce. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sesame oil or chili paste. Taste as you go! This allows you to make adjustments based on your preferences. A well-balanced sauce will enhance not just this dish but also any stir-fry or Asian-inspired meal you prepare in the future.

Garnish Thoughtfully

Garnishing may seem like a trivial detail, but it plays a significant role in how appetizing your Easy Sesame Chicken looks and tastes. Use toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions as garnishes for both visual appeal and added texture. The crunchiness of sesame seeds complements the tender chicken well, while green onions provide a sharp contrast in flavor. Avoid heavy garnishes that overshadow the main dish; simplicity is often more appealing. A thoughtful garnish makes your dish restaurant-worthy and enhances its overall presentation.

FAQs

What is Easy Sesame Chicken?

Easy Sesame Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish known for its sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender pieces of chicken coated in a rich sesame sauce. This recipe typically includes soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for depth of flavor. The dish is often served with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights since it comes together quickly without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

How long does it take to make Easy Sesame Chicken?

Preparing Easy Sesame Chicken is quick and efficient! From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes making this delicious meal. The prep work involves cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces and gathering your ingredients for the sauce. Cooking usually takes around 15 minutes over medium-high heat until everything is cooked through and nicely glazed with sauce. This makes it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you want something comforting yet don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Can I make Easy Sesame Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Easy Sesame Chicken ahead of time if you’re looking for convenient meal options during busy days. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days after preparation. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through—just be cautious not to overcook it again! If you plan on making it ahead of time, consider preparing extra sauce separately so that each serving remains flavorful when reheated.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Sesame Chicken?

Easy Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its sweet-savory flavors. Classic options include steamed jasmine rice or fried rice seasoned lightly with soy sauce and vegetables like peas and carrots. Stir-fried broccoli or snap peas add color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the chicken dish without overwhelming it. Another great option is a simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar—this adds freshness that enhances every bite! Feel free to mix-and-match sides based on what you have available!

Conclusion

In summary, making an unforgettable plate of Easy Sesame Chicken hinges on using fresh ingredients, careful cooking techniques, balanced sauces, and thoughtful garnishing practices. By avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking chicken or neglecting ingredient quality, you create a delightful dining experience that will impress your family or guests alike! With just about 30 minutes of preparation time needed for this flavorful dish paired with suitable sides like steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables—it’s perfect even during busy weeknights! Whether enjoyed alone or shared among loved ones at dinner gatherings—this recipe promises satisfaction every time!

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Easy Sesame Chicken

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Easy Sesame Chicken is a delicious, Asian-inspired dish that transforms your kitchen into a culinary haven with minimal effort. Featuring tender chicken pieces enveloped in a savory sesame sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and umami. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether served over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables, Easy Sesame Chicken is versatile and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Impress family and friends with this quick yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of takeout without leaving home.

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Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Fresh garlic
• Low-sodium soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Brown sugar
• Cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces; season with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, and cornstarch.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden (5-7 minutes).
4. Pour in the sauce; stir to coat and cook for an additional minute until thickened.
5. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.
6. Serve hot over rice or steamed vegetables.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 73mg

Keywords: - For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce for 30 minutes prior to cooking.- Add broccoli or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.