Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor explosion with this irresistible Sticky Garlic Sesame Chicken that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces glazed with a mouthwatering sauce that's simultaneously sweet, savory, and packed with aromatic garlic and toasted sesame notes. This Asian-inspired dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds - and the best part? It's easier to make than you might think!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger to create a flavorful marinade.
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-2 inches in size, to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing thoroughly to coat each piece completely. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the remaining marinade for later. Place chicken pieces in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, allowing each piece to develop a golden-brown caramelized exterior and cook through completely.
- Pour reserved marinade into the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and glaze the chicken.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken during the last minute of cooking to toast them lightly and add extra nutty flavor.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to further set and chicken to absorb flavors.
- Garnish with freshly sliced green onions just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dish, drizzling any remaining pan sauce over the chicken.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before marinating to ensure maximum flavor absorption and achieve that perfect golden-brown caramelization.
- Don't rush the marinating process - letting the chicken sit in the marinade for 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for the best searing and even cooking results.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure each piece gets crispy edges.
- Watch the heat carefully when reducing the marinade to create a thick, glossy sauce without burning.
- Toast the sesame seeds briefly to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 180mg
