If you’re looking for an effortless yet flavorful dish to impress your family or guests, then this easy sesame chicken is just what you need. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce enriched with the warm nuttiness of sesame oil. Perfectly paired with rice or vegetables, it brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your dining table. You can whip it up in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With its balanced flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, you’ll find that crafting this easy sesame chicken requires minimal effort and ingredients. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your kitchen!

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
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick; peel and finely grate before adding
• Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for richer flavor; it’s essential in giving the dish its signature taste
• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels while maintaining flavor
• Honey or Brown Sugar: This ingredient balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce with a touch of sweetness

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor; use low-sodium if preferred
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce; mix with water before adding to avoid lumps
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds are perfect for garnish and add crunch

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 Ingredients

Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking throughout.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add marinated chicken pieces without overcrowding the pan. Cook until golden brown on all sides (about five minutes).

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In another bowl, mix together chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Once the chicken is cooked through, pour this mixture into the skillet with the chicken.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Stir frequently until the sauce thickens (about two minutes). If desired, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top during this stage.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired. Serve alongside steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

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 ingredients overnight

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. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to enhance flavor.
• Storing: Leftover Easy Sesame Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it will last for about three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Suggestions for Easy Sesame Chicken

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

One common mistake when preparing easy sesame chicken is overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, losing its tender texture. To ensure perfect tenderness, cook the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. It’s essential to sauté the chicken on medium-high heat, allowing it to sear quickly while retaining moisture. If you’re using leftover chicken, be mindful of reheating it gently to avoid further drying out the meat. Perfectly cooked chicken enhances the overall flavor and enjoyment of your easy sesame chicken dish.

Skipping Marination

Another mistake often made is skipping the marination step. Marinating your chicken not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. A simple marinade of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil can transform your dish into a flavorful delight. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor infusion. If you skip this step, you may end up with a bland dish that lacks depth and richness. Investing time in marination pays off with delicious results in your easy sesame chicken.

Neglecting Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is vital for creating delicious easy sesame chicken. Many people rely on old or stale ingredients, which can significantly affect taste and quality. Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions elevate this dish, providing aromatic flavors that enhance the overall experience. Avoid using pre-packaged sauces that contain preservatives; instead, make your own sauce using simple ingredients like soy sauce and honey. Freshness translates into better nutrition and flavor, making each bite more enjoyable. Always prioritize fresh produce to ensure your easy sesame chicken shines.

Forgetting Presentation

Lastly, many home cooks overlook presentation when serving easy sesame chicken. A well-plated dish creates an inviting atmosphere and enhances the dining experience. Take a moment to arrange your chicken attractively on a plate, garnishing with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for color contrast. Serve alongside steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to add variety to your meal’s appearance. Neglecting presentation can make even the tastiest dishes seem unappealing. Invest some effort into how you present your food; it makes a big difference in how much others enjoy it.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Easy Sesame Chicken?

To prepare easy sesame chicken, gather essential ingredients: boneless chicken breast or thighs, soy sauce, honey or sugar, garlic cloves, fresh ginger, vegetable oil for frying, sesame seeds for garnish, and green onions for added freshness. You may also want cornstarch to create a crispy coating if desired. Adjust seasoning by adding chili flakes if you prefer some heat in your dish. Using these fresh ingredients will brighten up flavors and provide an authentic taste reminiscent of takeout versions while ensuring it’s homemade.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Sesame Chicken?

Preparing easy sesame chicken typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish if you have all ingredients ready beforehand. The actual cooking time is around 15-20 minutes after marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes or longer if possible. This quick recipe allows you to enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen while still delivering great flavors reminiscent of restaurant-quality meals.

Can I make Easy Sesame Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Making easy sesame chicken ahead of time is convenient for meal prep enthusiasts or busy weeknights. Cooked sesame chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage (up to three months). When reheating leftovers, do so gently on low heat to maintain moisture without drying out the chicken. Serving with freshly cooked rice or vegetables will help create a delightful meal even after storage.

Can I substitute proteins in Easy Sesame Chicken?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes use chicken as the main protein source for easy sesame chicken, you can easily substitute other proteins based on preference or dietary needs. Tofu works well as a vegetarian alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully during marination; shrimp offers a delightful seafood option that pairs wonderfully with sesame flavors too! Feel free to experiment with whichever protein suits your taste while keeping in mind cooking times may vary depending on what you choose.

Conclusion

Creating delicious easy sesame chicken at home doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming; it’s all about avoiding common mistakes that could detract from its flavor and appeal. By properly marinating your protein, using fresh ingredients, avoiding overcooking methods while enhancing presentation skills—you’ll elevate this simple dish into something extraordinary! The versatility of this recipe allows substitutions based on personal preferences while fitting seamlessly into any mealtime routine without sacrificing taste quality either way! Enjoy crafting this delightful meal that brings excitement back into everyday cooking occasions—perfectly suited whether you’re hosting family dinners or whipping up quick weekday meals!

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Sesame Chicken

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

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Description

Easy Sesame Chicken is a delightful, quick dish that captures the essence of Asian cuisine right at your dining table. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet-savory sauce infused with toasted sesame oil. This recipe is not only simple but also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust flavors according to your preferences. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, Easy Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fresh vegetables. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress your family and friends with this homemade delight that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

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Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Fresh garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Toasted sesame oil
• Low-sodium soy sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Chicken broth
• Cornstarch
• Sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, then cook marinated chicken until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Mix chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth; pour into the skillet with chicken.
5. Stir until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes). Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve hot over rice or alongside vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: - For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.- Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options.- Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition.