Easy Sesame Chicken
There’s something about Easy Sesame Chicken that brings a spark of joy to my kitchen. It was a rainy day when I first decided to whip this dish up for dinner. The aroma of the marinade filled the air, reminding me of cozy evenings spent at my favorite Asian restaurant. My family gathered around the table, and when I served the tender, glazed chicken, their eyes lit up with delight. It was a simple recipe, yet the flavors were vibrant and satisfying. I love that this dish is quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and ginger creates a deliciously sticky glaze that coats the juicy chicken perfectly. Each bite is a burst of flavor that transports you to culinary bliss.
Recipe Snapshot
22 mins
10 mins
12 mins
Medium
320 kcal
28 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
17 g
Chef’s Knife, Whisk
The Charm of This Easy Sesame Chicken
Quick and Easy
One of the reasons I adore Easy Sesame Chicken is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a fabulous meal on the table in no time! Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Flavorful Marinade
The marinade is what makes this dish shine. Combining soy sauce, honey, and lime juice creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory that elevates the dish. Plus, it helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
Healthier Alternative
This recipe is a healthier alternative to takeout. By preparing it at home, I can control the ingredients and avoid any unwanted additives. You can enjoy the same comforting flavors while keeping your meal balanced.
Family-Friendly
Kids love Easy Sesame Chicken! The sweet glaze and tender texture are always a hit, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming their taste buds.
Versatile Dish
This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed rice, toss it in a salad, or pair it with stir-fried veggies. The options are endless, allowing you to create a meal that suits your taste preferences.
Impressive Presentation
Finally, Easy Sesame Chicken not only tastes great but looks beautiful on the plate! Garnishing with fresh coriander and a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a pop of color and makes it feel fancy enough for any occasion.
Ingredient List for Easy Sesame Chicken

When preparing Easy Sesame Chicken, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the depth of flavor that makes this dish so beloved. The star players are the chicken, which becomes tender and juicy, and the marinade, which adds a sweet and savory profile that’s irresistible. Together, these ingredients come together to create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
A key ingredient that brings umami flavor and saltiness to the dish. - Honey: 2 teaspoons
Adds sweetness to balance the salty notes of the soy sauce. - Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon
Provides acidity and brightness, enhancing the overall flavor. - Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and warmth. - Ginger: 1 tablespoon, chopped
Brings a zesty kick and complements the sweetness of the honey. - Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
Adds rich nuttiness to the marinade. - White & Black Sesame Seeds: 1/2 tablespoon
Used as a garnish, they add crunch and visual appeal. - Chicken Breasts: 2, skin-on
Main protein that becomes juicy and flavorful when marinated. - Fresh Coriander: Handful
A fresh herb used for garnishing, adding a burst of color and freshness.
Making Easy Sesame Chicken

Making Easy Sesame Chicken is a breeze and perfect for those who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these steps to create a dish that will impress everyone at the table.
- Preheat the grill to 400°F. You’ll want a hot cooking surface to achieve that perfect sear and flavor on the chicken.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until well combined. This marinade should be smooth and aromatic, with the sweetness of honey balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. This step is crucial for flavor; let them soak in the goodness.
- Store in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more delicious dish.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off. You want to make sure the chicken isn’t too saucy, so it grills perfectly.
- Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 6 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a nice char and the juices run clear.
- Transfer the chicken to plates and garnish with fresh coriander and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This finishing touch not only looks beautiful but also adds extra flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Easy Sesame Chicken with your favorite sides.
- Consider pairing this dish with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for a few hours!
- Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Internal Temperature: Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Glaze: If you like a sticky glaze, brush some of the reserved marinade on the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to customize Easy Sesame Chicken, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some great ideas to make this dish your own!
- Storage: To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
- Pairing: Serve this dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu for a delicious plant-based version.
- Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or fresh chili peppers to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Make It Sweet: Experiment with different levels of honey or add a splash of orange juice for a fruity twist.
Perfect Matches for Easy Sesame Chicken
Pairing Easy Sesame Chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the delicious sauce and complements the flavors beautifully.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp greens like bok choy or bell peppers add color and nutrition.
- Asian Noodle Salad: A cold noodle salad with sesame dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
- Spring Rolls: Serve with fresh spring rolls for an appetizer that ties the meal together.
- Occasions: This dish is great for casual family dinners, meal prep, or even a potluck with friends. It’s versatile enough for any gathering!
- Seasonal Pairing: During warmer months, consider serving with a chilled cucumber salad.
FAQ
Conclusion
Easy Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and a reminder of home-cooked goodness. With its tender chicken and sweet glaze, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. I encourage you to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Easy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and half of the sesame seeds until well combined.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
- Store in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 6 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the chicken to plates and garnish with fresh coriander.
Notes
- Tip 1: To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
- Tip 3: Serve this dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Tip 4: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu for a delicious plant-based version.
- Tip 5: Add some chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.


