I love quick and easy recipes, especially when they bring comfort and joy to the table. This Shortcut Sesame Chicken is a tried-and-true favorite that I often whip up on busy weeknights. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that makes everyone happy. It’s special because it balances sweetness and savory flavors, and it makes me feel right at home.
Growing up, my dad James would often prepare something similar, often served with a side of steamed rice. I can still hear my sister Jennifer’s giggles as we sat at the table, eager to dive into the meal. Those memories make this recipe even more cherished.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups frozen breaded chicken
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp. sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar
- 1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
My Trusted Kitchen Tools
To make this recipe enjoyable, you only need a few basic kitchen tools. I use a small saucepan for the sauce, a mixing bowl to combine the chicken and sauce, and a pair of tongs for tossing everything together. An oven or air fryer for cooking the chicken makes this whole process easier. Having these items handy ensures a smooth cooking experience.
Bringing It All Together
- Prepare chicken according to instructions. Cover chicken tightly to keep warm.
- Make the honey sauce: In a small pan over medium heat, combine all remaining ingredients except sesame seeds.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer until slightly thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Pour sauce over warm chicken and toss to fully coat.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve with your favorite steamed vegetable and grain.
Making It Your Own (Swaps & Ideas)
You can easily personalize this dish to suit your taste. For a healthier option, swap out the frozen breaded chicken for grilled chicken breasts or thighs. Want to add more veggies? Toss in some broccoli or snap peas into the sauce while it’s simmering. If you prefer a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes. There are so many possibilities!
How We Love to Serve It
We love to serve this Sesame Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or steamed quinoa. The sauce soaks into the grains, making every bite delicious. A side of sautéed baby bok choy or garlic green beans pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the chicken. You can also make a colorful stir-fry to create a more vibrant meal.
A Few Tips For Success
Make sure to watch the sauce closely as it simmers. You want it to thicken without burning. If it gets too thick, a splash of water can help loosen it up. Always check the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through before serving. And if you have it, I recommend using toasted sesame seeds for an even richer flavor.
Saving Some For Later
Leftovers can be a lifesaver on busy days. Just store any extra chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to three days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or heat it gently on the stove. You can serve it over fresh rice for a quick meal the next day.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I hope you enjoy making this Shortcut Sesame Chicken as much as I do. It’s simple yet satisfying, and it brings back fond memories of family dinners. Sharing this recipe means sharing my love for food and the joy it brings to our lives.
Your Questions, Answered
What can I substitute for the frozen breaded chicken?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, grilled or baked chicken can replace the frozen breaded version. You can use chicken breast or thighs, seasoned with your favorite spices.
Can I make the honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the honey sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it gently before pouring it over the chicken.
What vegetables can I serve with Shortcut Sesame Chicken?
Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy are great choices. You can steam or sauté them to add nutritional value and color to your meal. Consider making a simple vegetable stir-fry to serve alongside.
Enjoy this delightful dish and make it your own!
Print
Shortcut Sesame Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and easy sesame chicken recipe that balances sweetness and savory flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen breaded chicken
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp. sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar
- 1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare chicken according to package instructions. Cover chicken tightly to keep warm.
- Make the honey sauce: In a small pan over medium heat, combine all remaining ingredients except sesame seeds.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer until slightly thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Pour sauce over warm chicken and toss to fully coat.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve with your favorite steamed vegetable and grain.
Notes
For a healthier option, swap the frozen breaded chicken for grilled chicken breasts or thighs. You can add broccoli or snap peas into the sauce for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: sesame chicken, quick dinner, weeknight meals, easy recipes, Chinese food