Simplylos Oven Baked Sesame Chicken: Easy, Flavorful Recipe

Are you craving a dish that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than our Simplylos Oven Baked Sesame Chicken. This dish combines the savory goodness of sesame oil and soy sauce with the tender juiciness of baked chicken, creating a delightful meal that will become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is an effortless way to enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine at home.

Origins and Interesting Facts

Sesame chicken is a popular dish in many Asian-inspired kitchens, beloved for its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. While traditionally deep-fried, our oven-baked version offers a healthier twist without sacrificing taste. The use of sesame oil, a staple in Asian cooking, dates back thousands of years and is known for its rich, nutty flavor that adds depth to any dish.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful Simplylos Oven Baked Sesame Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Marinade:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Coating:
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Garnish:
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional: sliced red chili for heat

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Simplylos Oven Baked Sesame Chicken:

Preparing the Marinade

1. Mix the Marinade:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-3 hours, for maximum flavor.

Baking the Chicken

3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
4. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a shallow dish, combine sesame seeds, cornstarch, and flour. Mix until evenly distributed.
5. Coat the Chicken:
   • Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. One at a time, remove each piece from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the sesame seed mixture, ensuring an even coat on all sides. Place coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake:
   • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown and crisp.

Serving

7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional red chili slices for added heat. Serve with steamed rice or your choice of side dish.

Tips and Variations

Cooking Tips

• Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken pieces are uniform in size to promote even cooking. If some pieces are thicker, consider pounding them to the same thickness.
• Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy coating, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the marinade and sesame seed mixture before baking.

Variations

• Honey Sesame Baked Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier, more tender dish.
• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Baked Asian Chicken Breast Recipes: Feel free to explore other Asian-inspired marinades, such as adding orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
• Delish Sesame Chicken: Enhance the dish with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal.

Substitutions

• Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
• Hoisin Sauce: If unavailable, substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of brown sugar or honey.

Nutritional Information

Here is the approximate nutritional information per serving (assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 850mg

Conclusion

Simplylos Oven Baked Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey creates a perfectly balanced marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments section below. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes, like our Crispy Fried Boiled Eggs or Baked Chinese Chicken Recipes. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and new recipes.