If you’re looking for a flavorful dish that’s simple to make, look no further than Easy Sesame Chicken. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve a meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Asian restaurant. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this Easy Sesame Chicken is versatile enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether served over rice or alongside steamed vegetables, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll love how effortless it is to whip up this delicious meal at home.
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
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; you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Sesame Oil: This adds a rich nutty flavor; opt for toasted sesame oil for deeper taste
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Brown Sugar: This helps balance out the savory flavors and adds a hint of sweetness
For the Sauce:
- Cornstarch: Use cornstarch to thicken the sauce; mix it with water before adding it to the pan
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
Start by dicing your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely and set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Add the diced chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil and sauté the marinated chicken until it becomes golden brown and fully cooked—about 6-8 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked chicken along with any remaining marinade. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens—this should take about two minutes.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Remove from heat and transfer your Easy Sesame Chicken onto serving plates. Optionally garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
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, or even overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. Chop any vegetables you plan to use and store them in airtight containers for up to two days.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It will maintain its best quality for about three months when frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the Easy Sesame Chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, microwave it on medium power for two-minute intervals until warm, ensuring not to overcook and dry out the chicken.
Suggestions for Easy Sesame Chicken
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Easy Sesame Chicken. Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Avoid using stale or frozen chicken, as it may lead to a rubbery texture and an unappealing taste. Additionally, fresh garlic and ginger can elevate the dish, providing a vibrant aroma and taste that dried alternatives simply cannot match. Always check the expiration dates on your sauces and oils to ensure optimal flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking is a common mistake that can ruin your Easy Sesame Chicken. When chicken is cooked for too long, it becomes dry and tough, which detracts from the overall dish. To avoid this, cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and no longer. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Cooking in smaller batches can also help achieve even cooking, ensuring each piece remains juicy and flavorful.
Balance the Sauce
A well-balanced sauce is essential for delicious Easy Sesame Chicken. If your sauce is too salty or sweet, it can overwhelm the dish. Start with a base of soy sauce and gradually add honey or sugar to reach your desired sweetness. Taste as you go to maintain balance. Adding a splash of rice vinegar can introduce acidity that brightens flavors without overpowering them. Remember, adjusting your sauce while cooking allows you to create a more harmonious dish.
Use the Right Cooking Technique
The cooking technique you choose greatly influences the outcome of Easy Sesame Chicken. Stir-frying is typically the best method because it cooks quickly and keeps ingredients crisp. Ensure your pan is hot before adding oil to prevent sticking and allow for even cooking. If you’re baking or frying, adjust cooking times accordingly for optimal results. Using high heat helps seal in juices while creating that desirable crispy exterior without sacrificing moisture.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Easy Sesame Chicken?
To prepare Easy Sesame Chicken, gather simple yet flavorful ingredients including chicken breast, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame seeds. You’ll also need vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers if you want to add color and nutrition to your dish. Rice or noodles serve as excellent sides to complement your meal perfectly. By having fresh vegetables on hand, you can customize the recipe according to your preferences.
Can I make Easy Sesame Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare many components of Easy Sesame Chicken ahead of time for convenience. Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and sesame oil up to 24 hours before cooking; this enhances flavor significantly. Chop vegetables in advance as well; just be sure to store them properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. While it’s best served immediately after cooking, leftovers can be reheated easily.
Is Easy Sesame Chicken healthy?
Easy Sesame Chicken can be made healthier by adjusting a few ingredients and portions. Opting for lean cuts of chicken reduces fat content while incorporating more vegetables increases nutritional value significantly. You can substitute regular soy sauce with low-sodium options to reduce salt intake without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, controlling the amount of honey used keeps sugar levels lower while still delivering sweetness that balances out savory notes.
How do I store leftovers of Easy Sesame Chicken?
To store leftovers of Easy Sesame Chicken properly, first let it cool down before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours after serving to prevent bacterial growth safely. The dish can last up to three days in the refrigerator if stored correctly; just ensure it remains sealed tightly at all times. For longer preservation, consider freezing portions for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion for Easy Sesame Chicken
Making Easy Sesame Chicken involves several key elements that contribute to its deliciousness and appeal. By using fresh ingredients, avoiding overcooking the chicken, balancing flavors in your sauce, and employing appropriate cooking techniques, you set yourself up for success in preparing this delightful dish. Taking care with each step ensures that every bite bursts with flavor while remaining tender and juicy throughout.
Additionally, remember that preparation plays a large role—having everything ready beforehand makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable! Whether you’re new to kitchen adventures or an experienced chef looking for a quick recipe option, these tips will help you create a fantastic meal everyone will love!. Enjoy your culinary journey with this versatile recipe!
Easy Sesame Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Easy Sesame Chicken is a quick and delicious dish that brings the enticing flavors of Asian cuisine right to your table. This recipe features tender, bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a meal that rivals your favorite takeout. Serve it over fluffy rice or with crisp steamed vegetables for a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, Easy Sesame Chicken is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
Instructions
- Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic.
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and minced garlic; add chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the marinated chicken until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes).
- Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth; pour into the skillet with the chicken along with any leftover marinade. Stir until sauce thickens (around 2 minutes).
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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