Sesame Chicken Recipe

Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this is the main protein of the dish.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the chicken.

Sesame oil: Provides a distinct, nutty aroma and taste.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce and coat the chicken.

Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the savory elements.

Rice vinegar: Adds a slight tanginess to the sauce.

Garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.

Sesame seeds: Sprinkled on top for a crunchy texture and nutty taste.

Green onions: Chopped and used as a fresh garnish.

To ensure the chicken pieces cook evenly and remain tender, make sure they are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces. When mixing the chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This will also help the cornstarch form a light coating that crisps up nicely when cooked. When cooking the chicken in the skillet, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure each piece browns properly. If necessary, cook in batches.

• Chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based alternative that absorbs flavors well and provides a similar texture.

• Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.

• Sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a different but still rich flavor, though it lacks the nutty taste of sesame oil.

• Cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent that works similarly to cornstarch.

• Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and can be used in the same quantity.

• Rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used as a direct replacement.

• Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder but still flavorful alternative to garlic.

• Sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds provide a similar crunch and are a nutritious alternative.

• Green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled sesame chicken into an airtight container. For best results, use a container that fits the amount of chicken snugly to minimize air exposure.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the dish within 3-4 days. This keeps the chicken fresh and flavorful.
• For longer storage, place the sesame chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When freezing, ensure the chicken is spread out in a single layer if using a bag. This helps it freeze more evenly and makes it easier to reheat individual portions.
• To reheat refrigerated sesame chicken, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the dish from drying out.
• For frozen sesame chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat using the same method as refrigerated chicken, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• If you're in a hurry, you can reheat frozen sesame chicken directly in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• To maintain the crunchiness of the sesame seeds, consider adding a fresh sprinkle of seeds and green onions after reheating. This gives the dish a freshly made appearance and taste.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of sesame oil or vegetable oil to the skillet.
  3. Add the leftover sesame chicken to the skillet.
  4. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the sesame chicken in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
  5. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the sesame chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir the chicken and microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, if necessary, until heated through.
  5. Be cautious not to overheat, as the chicken can become rubbery.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  2. Place the sesame chicken in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
  4. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken tender.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch.

• Skillet: Cook the chicken in this over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.

• Small bowl: Whisk together the honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic in this.

• Whisk: Use this to mix the honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined.

• Knife: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic with this.

• Cutting board: Place the chicken breast and garlic on this while cutting.

• Measuring spoons: Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds with these.

• Spatula: Stir and cook the chicken in the skillet with this.

• Serving dish: Transfer the finished sesame chicken onto this before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the chicken and green onions ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of mincing it yourself.

Measure sauces beforehand: Measure out the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar before you start cooking.

Cook in batches: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning and faster cooking.

Utilize a non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet can make cooking and cleanup quicker and easier.