Easy Sesame Chicken

Whenever I think about quick and satisfying meals, Easy Sesame Chicken always comes to mind. It’s one of those recipes that not only delivers on flavor but also on ease, making it a staple in my kitchen. Picture it: tender pieces of chicken, perfectly seared, coated in a glossy sesame sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. I often whip this up after a long day, and let me tell you, the smell wafting through my home as it cooks is heavenly.

This dish brings back memories of family dinners where we would gather around the table, the laughter mixing with the delicious aroma of cooking. I love how Easy Sesame Chicken is versatile; it pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a complete meal that satisfies every craving. Plus, it’s one of those recipes you can adjust to your taste—whether you like a little heat or prefer it mild, you can adapt it easily.

What I really enjoy is how simple the ingredients are. With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you can create something that tastes like it just came from a restaurant. For me, cooking is not just about the food; it’s about the memories created and the joy shared over a delicious meal. So, let’s dive into why Easy Sesame Chicken deserves a spot in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients for Easy Sesame Chicken

Cooking with fresh, wholesome ingredients is key to creating a delicious Easy Sesame Chicken. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture, ensuring that you have a vibrant and satisfying dish. From the savory chicken to the rich soy sauce, these ingredients complement each other beautifully.

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces: The star of the dish, offering tenderness and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon canola oil: For sautéing the chicken, providing a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds: Adding texture and a nutty flavor to the finished dish.
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce: The base of the sauce, delivering umami and saltiness.
• ⅓ cup brown sugar: Balancing the salty soy sauce with sweetness to create a harmonious glaze.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adding a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Enhancing the sesame flavor and providing richness.
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger root: Offering a warm and aromatic flavor that complements the chicken.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infusing the dish with a robust and savory aroma.
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce: Adding a hint of heat for those who like a kick.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, creating a glossy finish.

Step by Step Instructions for Easy Sesame Chicken

Making Easy Sesame Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

1. Start by whisking together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Set this aside for later.

2. Next, heat the canola oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly but isn’t smoking. This is the perfect time to introduce your chicken.

3. Carefully add the chicken thighs to the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want to give each piece space to sear properly. Let them cook without moving them for about five minutes, or until they form a nice golden crust.

4. Once the first side is beautifully browned, flip the chicken pieces over to cook the other side. Continue searing until they are cooked through, which should take another five minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible at this point!

5. When the chicken is done, carefully pour in the sauce mixture. Stir it around to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer for one to two minutes until it thickens slightly, clinging to the chicken.

6. As the sauce thickens, take a moment to admire the glossy finish it gives to your chicken. Once it’s ready, remove the pan from the heat. This is where you can taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

7. Before serving, garnish your Easy Sesame Chicken with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal. You can also add some sliced green onions if you have them on hand.

8. Plate the chicken along with any sauce from the pan, and serve it over steamed rice or noodles to soak up every bit of flavor. Enjoy your homemade meal!

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to make Easy Sesame Chicken your own! Here are some customization ideas that you can try to elevate this dish further.

• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add in some red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chilies when cooking.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken thighs for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
• Rice Variations: Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa for a different texture and flavor.
• Herbs and Greens: Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Meal Prep: Make a double batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week!
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with adding different sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a unique twist.

How to Serve Easy Sesame Chicken

Serving Easy Sesame Chicken can be just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to help you create a delightful meal:

• With Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to absorb the delicious sauce.
• Over Noodles: Try pairing it with lo mein or rice noodles for a different texture.
• As a Lunchbox Meal: Pack leftovers in a lunchbox with veggies and rice for a satisfying meal on the go.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family meals or gatherings, where everyone can dig in.
• Pairing with Veggies: Sautéed or steamed vegetables can complement the dish and add more color to your plate.
• Seasonal Side Dishes: Consider serving with a side of seasonal greens or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Leftover Ideas: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Sesame Chicken stands out for its delightful balance of flavors and simplicity. It proves that quick meals can be both delicious and satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe and witness how it can become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the wonderful dish you create!

Easy Sesame Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Sesame Chicken is a quick and delicious way to satisfy your craving for a savory meal. Tender chicken coated in a sweet and salty sesame sauce makes for a perfect weeknight dinner. You won't believe how easy it is to make this dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs boneless, skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger root
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Equipment

• Frying pan
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Grater

Method

 

1. Start by whisking together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Set this aside for later.
2. Next, heat the canola oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly but isn't smoking. This is the perfect time to introduce your chicken.
3. Carefully add the chicken thighs to the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want to give each piece space to sear properly. Let them cook without moving them for about five minutes, or until they form a nice golden crust.
4. Once the first side is beautifully browned, flip the chicken pieces over to cook the other side. Continue searing until they are cooked through, which should take another five minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible at this point!
5. When the chicken is done, carefully pour in the sauce mixture. Stir it around to coat the chicken evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer for one to two minutes until it thickens slightly, clinging to the chicken.
6. As the sauce thickens, take a moment to admire the glossy finish it gives to your chicken. Once it’s ready, remove the pan from the heat. This is where you can taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Before serving, garnish your Easy Sesame Chicken with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal. You can also add some sliced green onions if you have them on hand.
8. Plate the chicken along with any sauce from the pan, and serve it over steamed rice or noodles to soak up every bit of flavor. Enjoy your homemade meal!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.