Easy Sesame Chicken in 20 Min (So Tasty!)

If you’re craving takeout but want something healthier and quicker at home, you’re in for a treat! This Easy Sesame Chicken recipe brings the bold, sticky-sweet flavor of your favorite Chinese dish right to your dinner table—in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even a satisfying solo meal, this recipe checks all the boxes: quick, simple, and absolutely delicious. 🍗✨

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of sweet and savory, thanks to the rich combination of soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and aromatic spices like ginger and garlic. It’s lightly crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and tossed in a glossy sesame glaze that clings to every bite.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is made to build confidence in the kitchen. Plus, it’s super customizable—serve it with rice, noodles, or fresh veggies. Either way, it’s going to be a hit!

🌱 Why You’ll Love This Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Mild, comforting flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
• Better Than Takeout: Healthier, fresher, and less greasy than most restaurant versions.
• Naturally Sweetened: Uses honey for a more wholesome sweetness.
• Nutrient-Packed: Chicken is high in lean protein, while sesame seeds provide healthy fats and minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Sesame oil adds not just flavor but also anti-inflammatory benefits, while garlic and ginger bring antibacterial and digestive properties. It’s the perfect feel-good meal without sacrificing taste or time!

🍽️ What is Chicken Breast?

Chicken breast is the leanest cut of chicken, coming from the pectoral muscle. It’s known for being high in protein, low in fat, and incredibly versatile in cooking. When cooked correctly, it’s juicy, tender, and absorbs flavors beautifully—making it the perfect canvas for bold sauces like sesame glaze.

🔍 Fun Fact: Chicken breast contains essential nutrients like vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium, which help boost your immune system and support metabolism.

You’ll find it featured in everything from stir-fries and salads to soups and sandwiches—making it a true staple in kitchens around the world.

🛍️ Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Must-Have Ingredients:

• Chicken Breast (1 lb): Lean protein base.
  Substitute: Tofu, shrimp, or boneless thighs for variation.
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): Adds umami depth.
  Substitute: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free versions.
• Honey (2 tbsp): Balances saltiness with natural sweetness.
  Substitute: Maple syrup or brown sugar.
• Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): Rich, nutty aroma.
  Substitute: Toasted peanut oil (if not allergic).
• Garlic Powder & Ginger Powder (1 tsp each): Quick flavor boosters.
  Substitute: Fresh minced garlic and ginger for bolder taste.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp): Helps create a crispy coating and thickens the sauce.
  Substitute: Arrowroot powder or potato starch.
• Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp): For frying.
  Substitute: Avocado oil or sunflower oil.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp): Garnish with crunch and flavor.
  Optional: Chopped peanuts or cashews.

👩‍🍳 Chef’s Tips for Success

• Marinate Smart: Even a short 10-minute marinade with soy sauce and sesame oil deepens flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to get that perfect golden sear.
• Use Medium-High Heat: This ensures a quick sear and prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Fresh is Best: Fresh garlic and ginger can elevate the flavor compared to powders.
• Garnish Right: A sprinkle of green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only looks beautiful but enhances flavor and texture.

📢 More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Easy Sesame Chicken, try these other delicious and easy recipes:

• Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe – Delicious in 30 Minute
• 15-Min Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp
• Quick Teriyaki Chicken Skillet
• Sweet and Sour Tofu Stir-Fry
• Best Easy Orange Chicken Bites
• Sticky Korean Chicken Wings

🍽️ Let’s Get Cooking!

Ready to skip the takeout and whip up something amazing in your own kitchen? This Easy Sesame Chicken will have everyone asking for seconds—and it only takes 20 minutes! Gather your ingredients, turn up the heat, and let’s bring those delicious aromas to life.

Unique Flavor

Easy Sesame Chicken in 20 Min (So Tasty!)

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 300 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year Dietary:

Dairy-Free

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Author: Judy Sanders Cooking Method: Frying, Simmering Cuisine: Asian, Chinese Courses: Dinners, Main Dishes Recipe Keys: Quick Meals

Description

A speedy and delicious sesame chicken recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving Chinese takeout at home!

Ingredients

Cook Mode Cooking Mode Disabled

Servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken breast (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce (Low-sodium recommended)
• 2 tbsp Honey
• 1 tbsp Sesame oil
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Ginger powder
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch
• 2 tbsp Water
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp Sesame seeds (For garnish)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Marinating the Chicken

   In a bowl, combine 1 lb of diced chicken breast with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
   Marinating the chicken helps infuse it with flavor and tenderize the meat.

2. Preparing the Sauce

   Mix together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated ginger in a small bowl. Set aside.
   Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking

1. Cooking the Chicken

   Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
   
   Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure the chicken browns evenly.

2. Adding the Sauce

   Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
   Stirring constantly helps the sauce coat the chicken beautifully.

Finishing Touches

1. Garnishing and Serving

   Sprinkle 1 tbsp of sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the sesame chicken. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
   Garnishing adds a pop of color and extra flavor to the dish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 296kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 14.6g23%

Saturated Fat 1.8g9%

Trans Fat 0.1g

Cholesterol 82.8mg28%

Sodium 492.1mg21%

Potassium 444.8mg13%

Total Carbohydrate 14.1g5%

Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%

Sugars 8.7g

Protein 26.8g54%

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Calcium 32.3 mg

Iron 1.1 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. ____ (*Keep in mind that these are approximate values and may vary slightly depending on the brands and exact proportions of ingredients used. For more precise measurements, it’s best to use a specific nutritional calculator or product labels for the ingredients you’re using.)

Note

• For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it.
• Adjust the amount of honey and soy sauce to suit your taste preference.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
• Serve the sesame chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Make extra sauce and store it in the fridge for up to a week for quick meal prep.
• You can add a bit of heat with some chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
• If you want a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce while simmering.

Keywords: Chicken, Sesame, Quick, Easy, Flavorful

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