Sesame Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Sweet, and Perfect for Family Dinners

Sesame Chicken, a popular dish in American-Chinese cuisine, combines crispy chicken chunks with a sweet sesame sauce. It originated from the adaptation of traditional Chinese recipes to suit American tastes. The dish evolved over time, blending local ingredients and flavors to create a distinctive meal that appeals to many.

Key Ingredients in Easy Sesame Chicken

Easy Sesame Chicken uses commonly available ingredients. Here’s a breakdown:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Soy Sauce: Provides umami and saltiness.
• Honey: Adds sweetness and balances the sauce.
• Garlic: Enhances flavor with a pungent kick.
• Ginger: Adds a warm, slightly spicy taste.
• Cornstarch: Used for coating chicken pieces to achieve crispiness.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic flavor.
• Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Garnish that adds freshness and texture.

These ingredients combine to create a balanced, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.

How to Make Easy Sesame Chicken

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice 2 pounds of chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Mince 4 cloves of garlic and 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger. Measure 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
2. Marinate Chicken: Combine the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Create Sauce: Mix the remaining soy sauce, honey, water, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water, then add to the bowl to thicken the sauce.
4. Cook Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
5. Add Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken pieces.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the cooked sesame chicken. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the dish’s flavor compared to dried or powdered ingredients.
• Balance Sweetness and Savory: Adjust the honey and soy sauce ratio to balance sweetness and savoriness according to your taste preferences.
• Properly Heat Oil: Ensure the oil is hot before adding chicken to achieve a crispy texture without absorbing excess oil.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding decreases the temperature, leading to less crispy chicken.
• Rest the Chicken: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before adding the sauce, enabling the meat to retain its juiciness.

Using these tips in combination with the step-by-step recipe ensures you make flavorful and easy sesame chicken that satisfies any craving.

Nutritional Benefits of Easy Sesame Chicken

Caloric Content and Serving Size

Easy Sesame Chicken provides a balance of macronutrients per serving. Typically, one serving size (about 200 grams) contains around 350-400 calories. This value includes the chicken, sauce, and any accompanying vegetables like green onions. When preparing the dish at home, you can adjust portion sizes to manage your caloric intake.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Chicken Breasts:
Chicken breasts are a lean protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth. A 100-gram portion offers approximately 31 grams of protein and minimal fat.

Sesame Oil:
Sesame oil contains healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Garlic and Ginger:
Garlic and ginger enhance immune function. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger can aid digestion and reduce nausea.

Honey:
Honey provides natural sweetness and antioxidants. It can help reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.

Green Onions:
Green onions are rich in vitamins A and C. They help support vision and the immune system.

Soy Sauce:
Soy sauce, used in moderation, adds umami flavor and contains essential amino acids. Opt for low-sodium varieties to reduce sodium intake.

By incorporating these ingredients, Easy Sesame Chicken offers not only great taste but also nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome addition to your meal repertoire.

Serving and Pairing Ideas for Easy Sesame Chicken

Best Side Dishes

Incorporate a variety of sides to enhance your Easy Sesame Chicken. Steamed jasmine rice complements the dish’s sweet and savory flavors, providing a neutral base. Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add a crunchy texture and extra nutrients. You can also try serving egg rolls or dumplings for a more authentic experience. Another excellent option is a light and refreshing cucumber salad, which balances the richness of the chicken with a tangy and fresh counterpart.

Drink Pairings

Select drinks that balance the flavors of your Easy Sesame Chicken. Green tea provides a mild and earthy flavor, complementing the dish without overwhelming it. Light beers, such as pilsners or lagers, offer a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime to cleanse your palate. If you prefer wine, a chilled glass of Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc’s fruity undertones can enhance the dining experience.

Conclusion

With its crispy texture and sweet sesame sauce Easy Sesame Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. By using fresh ingredients and mastering the cooking techniques you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Pair it with side dishes like steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables and complement the meal with a refreshing drink. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion Easy Sesame Chicken offers a delightful culinary experience that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Enjoy the flavors and the compliments that are sure to follow!