Description
Sticky Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For Serving:
Steamed rice
Steamed broccoli
Directions
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil the pan and sear chicken thighs on both sides until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the sauce to thicken, stirring constantly.
Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it well in the sticky sesame sauce.
Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. Serve warm over steamed rice with a side of broccoli.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Sticky Sesame Chicken every time. First, ensure your chicken is patted dry with paper towels to promote a good sear. Whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly until the honey is fully dissolved. When searing the chicken, avoid moving it for the first 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust. After removing the chicken, pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry slowly while stirring constantly; the sauce will thicken within 1-2 minutes. Reduce the heat to low before returning the chicken to the pan, tossing gently to coat without breaking the pieces.
Serving Suggestions
While steamed rice and broccoli are classic, this versatile dish pairs wonderfully with other sides. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. For added freshness, top with a quick cucumber salad or shredded carrots. You can also incorporate the chicken into lettuce wraps for a light, hands-on meal. Garnish with extra green onions, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or a drizzle of sriracha.
How-to Summary
In summary, this quick 25-minute meal involves searing chicken, then creating a glossy, sweet-savory sauce in the same pan. The key steps are: 1) Whisk the sauce, 2) Sear and set aside the chicken, 3) Simmer and thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry, 4) Return chicken to coat, and 5) Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts work well. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking and be careful not to overcook, as they can dry out faster than thighs.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or in the microwave at reduced power.
Is there a substitute for rice vinegar? Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar are suitable substitutes in a pinch.
Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely. Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
Why is my sauce not getting sticky/thick? Ensure your cornstarch slurry is well-mixed and that the sauce is at a simmer when you add it. Simmer for a full 1-2 minutes after adding to activate the starch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding the cornstarch directly to the sauce: This will create lumps. Always mix it with cold water first to form a smooth slurry.
- Overcrowding the pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful sear.
- Using high heat for the sauce: High heat can cause the honey to burn. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer.
- Skipping the toasting of sesame seeds: Toasting in a dry pan for a minute dramatically enhances their nutty flavor.
Conclusion
This Sticky Sesame Chicken recipe is a reliable, flavorful weeknight winner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, combined with its simple technique, makes it a dish you’ll return to again and again. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. Enjoy this delicious, versatile meal with your favorite sides for a satisfying dinner any day of the week.