Introduction to Sesame Chicken
Sesame chicken has earned its place as a beloved dish, especially among young professionals who crave a quick yet satisfying meal. Combining tender chicken bites coated in a sweet and savory sauce, this dish strikes a perfect balance between flavors. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also introduces a delightful crunch and freshness.
Why has it become such a favorite? For one, it can be prepared in under 35 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option after a long day at work. With its Asian-inspired flavors, sesame chicken effortlessly bypasses the need for takeout, saving not just time but also money. Many professionals have also become conscious of their nutritional intake, and this recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried options, with a considerable amount of protein and less fat.
Packed with ingredients that can easily be found, sesame chicken fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle. You can find more tips on making healthy choices on the Healthline website. So, if you're in search of a delicious, simple, and nutritious meal to impress your palate, look no further — sesame chicken is the way to go!
Ingredients for Sesame Chicken
Essential ingredients for the dish
To create delicious sesame chicken, you'll need a handful of essential ingredients that work together to build robust flavors:
- Chicken breast: 1.5 pounds, cut into ½-inch cubes; this lean protein serves as the star of the dish.
- Seasonings: Kosher salt, black pepper, and ginger powder for that perfect flavor base.
- Oils: Toasted sesame oil and avocado oil add richness and depth.
- Aromatics: Minced garlic (about four cloves) and red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
- Sauce components: Reduced sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari), monk fruit sweetener (coconut sugar or honey works too), tomato paste, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feeling adventurous? Customize your sesame chicken with these optional ingredients:
- Vegetables: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
- Nuts: Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch.
- Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by using different sweeteners or adding a drizzle of honey.
- Heat level: Elevate the spiciness with additional red pepper flakes or chili paste.
Experiment with these ingredients to make the dish truly your own! For more recipe inspiration, check out this site for ideas.
Preparing Sesame Chicken
When you're ready to whip up a delicious batch of sesame chicken, it’s essential to take a step-by-step approach for the best results. Follow these guidelines to prepare a meal that’s not only tasty but also impressively easy to make.
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
The first step in creating the perfect sesame chicken is to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into ½-inch cubes
- Seasonings: kosher salt, black pepper, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes for that extra kick
- Oils: toasted sesame oil and avocado oil for cooking
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is non-negotiable!
- Rice: Cooked white rice to serve alongside
- Scallions: For garnish
Ensure you have a large deep skillet or wok ready to go. This will be your best friend in cooking everything to perfection.
Marinate the Chicken
Next comes marinating the chicken, which is crucial for infusing flavor. Combine the cubed chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, ginger powder, and arrowroot in a bowl. Drizzle in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil and mix everything until well coated. Marinating for at least 15 minutes can enhance the flavors even more, but if you're short on time, don’t worry—marinating for just a few minutes will still do the trick.
Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Once your chicken is marinated, heat your skillet over medium-high heat for about three minutes. Add half of the avocado oil and allow it to heat up before adding half of the chicken in an even layer. Cook it for about 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through. The goal is to get that golden brown exterior. Repeat this process for the remaining chicken to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Prepare the Flavorful Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, it’s the perfect time to whip up the sauce that makes sesame chicken shine! In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, monk fruit sweetener, tomato paste, and rice vinegar. Add a splash more of the toasted sesame oil, sesame seeds, and grated ginger. Whisk it all together until smooth, and don’t forget the last ingredient: a slurry made from arrowroot and filtered water to thicken it up.
Combine Chicken and Sauce for Ultimate Flavor
After the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for a fragrant aroma. Add half of your prepared sauce to the pan, cooking for about a minute. Return the chicken, toss everything together, and drizzle in your slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another couple of minutes until everything is well combined and coated.
Don’t forget to serve your scrumptious sesame chicken over warm rice and garnish with chopped scallions. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes—and trust us, your friends will be asking for seconds!
For more information on ingredient substitutions and preparation tips, check out reputable cooking sites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Happy cooking!
Variations of Sesame Chicken
Sesame Tofu for a Vegetarian Option
Looking for a fantastic vegetarian alternative? Try sesame tofu! Simply use cubed firm tofu in place of chicken. Marinate the tofu to soak up delicious flavors before sautéing it until golden brown. Toss it in the same sweet and savory sauce, and you're in for a treat. This variation not only satisfies veggie lovers but also adds a delightful texture to your meal.
Sweet and Spicy Sesame Chicken
For those who enjoy a little heat, consider making sweet and spicy sesame chicken. Just add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. The kick complements the sweetness perfectly, creating a dish that’s both tantalizing and memorable. Don’t forget to balance the flavors—adjusting sweeteners can often lead to the perfect harmony. Explore this variation to elevate your usual sesame chicken experience!
For great tips on choosing sauces, check out resources like Serious Eats for expert advice.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Sesame Chicken
Ensure Chicken is Tender and Juicy
For perfectly tender sesame chicken, marinate your chicken pieces beforehand. A simple mix of kosher salt, ginger, and toasted sesame oil will enhance their flavor and moisture. When cooking, remember to avoid overcrowding the skillet; this ensures each piece gets a chance to crisp up beautifully. Cook in batches if needed!
Balancing Flavors in the Sauce
Achieving that perfect balance of sweet and savory is key in sesame chicken. Use a combination of reduced sodium soy sauce and monk fruit sweetener to elevate the flavors without overpowering. Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes for desired heat, and don’t skip on the sesame seeds – they bring great texture and a nutty finish!
By following these tips, you'll create a dish that's not only delicious but sure to impress your friends and family! For more tips, check out articles on mastering stir-fries at Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Sesame Chicken
Best Accompaniments for a Well-Rounded Meal
To create a delightful meal around sesame chicken, consider serving it with fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice, which soaks up the sauce beautifully. Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy add a nutritious crunch, while a simple cucumber salad balances the dish's richness. For those who love spice, some chili garlic sauce on the side can elevate the flavors!
Creative Plating Ideas
When it comes to presentation, make your sesame chicken shine! Serve it in a shallow bowl, placing the chicken on a bed of rice, and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that extra pop of color. For a touch of elegance, use a large white plate and arrange the veggies around the chicken, creating a vibrant and colorful spectacle.
Discover more about plating techniques here.
Time Breakdown for Sesame Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready for sesame chicken is a breeze. Set aside about 15 minutes to chop the chicken and gather your seasoning components.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the cooking part is quick too! Expect to spend approximately 20 minutes bringing everything to life in the pan.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious homemade sesame chicken meal ready to impress. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner gathering. Enjoy!
For more helpful kitchen tips, check out this guide on meal prepping to save time in the kitchen!
Nutritional Facts for Sesame Chicken
Calories in a Serving
A single serving of sesame chicken packs about 513 calories, making it a satisfying meal option that won't weigh you down.
Protein Content
With 44.5 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic choice for those looking to boost their protein intake. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth.
Key Nutritional Highlights
Here are some key highlights of this delicious recipe:
- Carbohydrates: 54 grams, primarily from white rice, providing energy.
- Fats: 16 grams, including healthy fats from sesame oil.
- Fiber: 1.5 grams, which aids digestion.
- This dish balances protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome dinner choice.
For a deeper dive into the health benefits of sesame chicken ingredients, explore WebMD for insights into chicken breast nutrition or check out Healthline for ideas on incorporating lean protein into your diet. Enjoy this vibrant dish while reaping its health benefits!
FAQs about Sesame Chicken
Can I make sesame chicken gluten-free?
Absolutely! To whip up a gluten-free version of sesame chicken, simply opt for gluten-free tamari instead of traditional soy sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that maintain that savory flavor you love. Always double-check the labels of your other ingredients like sauces and condiments to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple! Allow your sesame chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for about 3 months. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the tenderness of the chicken.
What are some common mistakes when making sesame chicken?
When preparing sesame chicken, avoid the following pitfalls:
- Overcrowding the pan: This can cause your chicken to steam instead of crisp up. Cook in batches for the best texture.
- Skipping marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate can enhance flavor. Even a 15-minute rest can make a difference!
- Neglecting the sauce: Ensure your sauce ingredients are well combined before adding to avoid clumps of uneven flavor.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create a sesame chicken that’s not only delicious but also impressively homemade!
Conclusion on Sesame Chicken
In conclusion, this sesame chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. I encourage you to try it out and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments. I’d love to hear how you personalized this dish!
Sesame Chicken
Equipment
- large deep skillet or wok
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small ½-inch cubes
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon arrowroot or cornstarch
- 1.5 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil divided
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1.5 tablespoons minced garlic about 4 cloves
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 2 scallions, sliced
Sauce
- ⅓ cup reduced sodium soy sauce or gluten-free tamari
- 3 tablespoons monk fruit sweetener coconut sugar, honey or sweetener of choice
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 2.5 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
- 0.5 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot or cornstarch
- 0.25 cup filtered water
Instructions
- Combine cubed chicken with salt, pepper, ginger, arrowroot, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for 3 minutes. When hot add half of the avocado oil and let it heat up for 1 minute.
- Add half of the chicken in an even layer to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate. Repeat with remaining oil and chicken.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing the soy sauce, sugar, tomato paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and ginger together in a bowl until well combined. Set aside.
- Make the slurry by combining the tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot flour and water together in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Add ½ tablespoon sesame oil to the pan along with red chili pepper flakes and garlic. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add half of the sauce to the pan and continue cooking for 1 minute, stirring the bottom of the pan frequently.
- Return the chicken back into the pan and toss to combine. Add the remainder of the sauce into the pan. Slowly drizzle in the arrowroot slurry and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Serve with cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
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