Chicken with sesame and honey

Sesame and honey chicken: a delicious recipe for special moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will prepare a savory sesame and honey chicken recipe, a dish that perfectly combines the natural sweetness of honey with the intense flavor of soy sauce and the crunchiness of sesame seeds. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for family dinners or a special occasion. So, let's get started!

A brief history of the recipe

Sesame and honey chicken is a dish inspired by various culinary traditions, combining Asian influences with modern cooking techniques. This recipe reflects the harmony between sweet and savory ingredients, making it perfect for those who appreciate food with a balanced taste. Whether you enjoy it at a festive meal or on a quiet evening at home, each bite will bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients needed for sesame and honey chicken

*For the chicken:*
- 500 g chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

*For the marinade:*
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably sesame oil or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (freshly grated for extra flavor)

*For the batter:*
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons starch
- 150 ml water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

*For the sauce:*
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger
- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (rice vinegar is ideal)
- 3 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (preferably homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon starch (dissolved in a little cold water)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the marinade:
In a bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, oil, water, sugar, salt, and grated ginger. Cut the chicken breast into equal-sized pieces (cubes of about 3 cm) and add them to the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Marinating will help tenderize the meat and infuse flavors.

2. Preparing the batter:
In another bowl, beat the egg and add the flour, starch, water, salt, and baking soda. Mix well until you get a fluid batter, similar to pancake batter. The consistency should be liquid enough to coat the pieces of meat but not so thin that it won't stick.

3. Preparing the sauce:
In a non-stick pan, add a little oil and sauté the crushed garlic and grated ginger for a few seconds, being careful not to burn them. Add the water, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Finding the perfect balance:
Mix the dissolved baking soda with a little cold water and pour it over the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Adjust the honey to taste, keeping in mind that a smaller amount will provide a less sweet flavor.

5. Frying the chicken:
After marinating, remove the chicken pieces from the refrigerator and drain them in a colander. Coat them with the prepared batter, ensuring they are well covered. In a deep pan, heat the oil and fry the pieces of meat in batches until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

6. Finalizing the dish:
After frying the chicken, add it to the prepared sauce and mix well to coat each piece of meat. Then, roll them in sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Serving and side dish suggestions

This sesame and honey chicken pairs perfectly with a side of fried rice, wok vegetables, or a fresh salad. Share this dish with family or friends, providing them with a memorable culinary experience. If you wish to experiment, try adding chili peppers or green onions for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Nutrition and benefits

This sesame and honey chicken recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken breast, while sesame provides healthy fatty acids and antioxidants. Honey adds a touch of natural energy. One serving contains approximately 400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted for pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey and add more soy sauce or vinegar for a more balanced taste.

3. What other side dishes can I try?
You can serve this chicken with sautéed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh summer salad.

4. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Tips and variations

- Experiment with different types of seeds: instead of sesame, try pumpkin seeds or even chopped nuts.
- Add a spicy note by including chili sauce in the final sauce.
- For a more complex flavor, incorporate a few drops of sesame oil into the marinade.

I hope this sesame and honey chicken recipe brings you joy and flavor in the kitchen! Feel free to share your results with loved ones and explore the various possibilities this versatile recipe offers. Enjoy your meal!