04 Jun 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
3 lb chicken thighs
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
1/2 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup chives
Honey sesame chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the nuttiness of sesame seeds. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. The following guide will walk you through the steps to create this delectable meal.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Clean and trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Flavor the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- If you're using soy sauce, mix it with the honey and brush the mixture onto the chicken thighs.
3. Toast the Sesame Seeds:
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, set aside.
4. Marinate (Optional):
- For an added layer of flavor, you can marinate the chicken thighs in the garlic, ginger, honey, and soy sauce for at least 30 minutes.
5. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down if skin is present. Cook until the skin is crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken thighs and continue to cook until the other side is browned and the chicken is cooked through, about another 5-7 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Add Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the chicken with the aromatics.
7. Make the Sauce (Optional):
- If you want a sauce, combine the honey and soy sauce with water and pour it into the skillet. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
8. Finish the Dish:
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the chicken thighs.
- Garnish with finely chopped chives just before serving.
9. Serve:
- Transfer the honey sesame chicken to a serving platter.
- Serve immediately, with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Tips:
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more vibrant and robust flavor.
- Toast the sesame seeds lightly before using them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Marinating the chicken thighs in the honey sesame mixture for a few hours or overnight can deepen the flavors.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh chives right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
With its sweet and savory notes, honey sesame chicken is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Following these tips and steps, you'll have a dish that's both satisfying and impressive. Enjoy your homemade honey sesame chicken with a side of steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal!