Easy Asian Sesame Chicken Recipe
Asian sesame chicken is a delicious and popular dish that showcases the bold flavors of the Orient. This easy-to-follow recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a savory sesame sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. With a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this flavorful Asian-inspired chicken in no time.
Ingredients
To create this delectable Asian sesame chicken, gather the following ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or black) for garnish
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
– Cooked white rice or steamed vegetables (optional, for serving)
Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the sesame sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the mixture is well combined. This rich and flavorful sauce will be the key to infusing the chicken with delicious Asian flavors.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour half of the sesame sauce over the chicken, reserving the rest for later. Toss the chicken to ensure it’s well coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or ideally, a few hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat some cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them until they are fully cooked through and lightly browned on the outside, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Thicken the sauce: While the chicken is cooking, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the reserved sesame sauce and mix well. This will help thicken the sauce and give it a glossy appearance.
5. Add the sauce to the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, pour the thickened sesame sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce to ensure it’s evenly coated. Allow the sauce to simmer with the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes until it thickens and forms a glaze.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove the Asian sesame chicken from the heat, and sprinkle the sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions over the top. The seeds add a delightful crunch, while the green onions lend a pop of freshness. Serve the chicken over steamed white rice or alongside your favorite steamed vegetables.
Asian sesame chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the exotic flavors of the Orient to your dining table. With its delectable sweet and savory sauce coating tender chicken pieces, this flavorful meal is sure to become a family favorite in no time.