Craving something delicious and easy to prepare? This sesame chicken recipe is just what you need! With tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, topped with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish is sure to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it combines delightful flavors that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details so you can whip up this amazing dish in no time!
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, sliced
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 10g
This nutritional value is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly covered.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
6. Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
7. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
8. Reduce heat and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken and stir to combine.
10. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or use different types of meat like shrimp or beef. Additionally, honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Sesame chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside egg rolls or dumplings.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it’s sealed well to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it tough—cook just until golden.
- Not properly coating the chicken can result in uneven texture.
- Using too much sauce can make the dish overly salty—measure carefully.
- Skipping the sesame seeds can reduce the dish’s authentic flavor.
- Not simmering the sauce long enough can lead to a watery consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken for added flavor if time allows.
- Use a non-stick skillet for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds for presentation.
- Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken for seasoning adjustments.
FAQs
Can I make sesame chicken gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to ensure the dish is gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Is sesame chicken healthy?
While it’s not the lowest calorie option, it can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, especially with vegetables.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain excess moisture before cooking.
What can I serve with sesame chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This sesame chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that is both easy and quick to prepare. Perfect for any occasion, it combines the sweetness of honey and the savory notes of soy sauce, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy this recipe with your loved ones and savor the delicious results!
Sesame Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions sliced
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly covered.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
- Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
- Reduce heat and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken and stir to combine.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Nutrition
