Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken (Printer View)

Sweet ginger-sesame glaze brings juicy chicken bites to life, ideal for a quick, flavorful main course.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

→ Sauce

06 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce
07 - 3 tablespoons honey
08 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
09 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
10 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
11 - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
12 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
13 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

→ Garnish

14 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
15 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced

# Method:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly toss chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add coated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 - In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes (if using) until smooth.
04 - Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
05 - Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece in the sauce, and continue to cook for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce becomes glossy and sticky.
06 - Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced spring onions before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just over thirty minutes so perfect for weeknights
  • Saucy sticky glaze you will want to lick off the spoon
  • Uses easy pantry staples plus fresh ginger for zing
  • Kid friendly with optional heat if you like a bit of spice
  • Cleanup is minimal and reheats beautifully
02 -
  • This version has no dairy so works for many diets
  • Lets you control the sugar and spice level easily
  • Thighs stay juiciest but breast works too
03 -
  • Do not crowd the chicken in the pan cook in batches if needed for maximum caramelization
  • Grate ginger just before using to capture its full aroma and pungency
  • Watch the sauce closely while simmering since honey and sugar can burn quickly

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