Garlic Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, savory sauce infused with garlic and sesame flavor. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a burst of flavor that your family will love. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a meal that feels gourmet. Whether you’re preparing dinner on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for the weekend, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory notes makes Garlic Sesame Chicken a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fresh vegetables, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a balanced meal. Discover the joy of cooking this comforting yet exciting dish that brings the essence of Asian cuisine right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Sesame Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Garlic Sesame Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor; opt for toasted sesame oil for an extra punch
- Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar to add sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce for a luscious texture
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Garlic Sesame Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Ensure each piece is uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a drizzle of sesame oil and then add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook them until golden brown and fully cooked through—about six to eight minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together cornstarch with water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet once the chicken is cooked and stir well to combine everything. Allow it to cook until thickened—this should take about two minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flair.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Add Some Veggies: Feel free to toss in some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking to enhance nutrition
How to Serve Garlic Sesame Chicken
This Garlic Sesame Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade for Garlic Sesame Chicken a day in advance. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator to enhance flavor. Keep it in an airtight container until ready to cook.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For long-term storage, consider freezing the chicken. It can last up to two months in the freezer when stored properly.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and cover for about five minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on low power, stirring occasionally until warm.
Suggestions for Garlic Sesame Chicken
Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
Overcooking is a common mistake when preparing Garlic Sesame Chicken. The chicken can turn dry and tough if left on the heat for too long. To ensure juicy and tender pieces, cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve this without guessing. Also, remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Pay attention to the cooking time, especially if you’re using thin-cut chicken breasts or thighs.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making delicious Garlic Sesame Chicken. Fresh garlic and ginger provide vibrant flavor profiles that enhance your dish significantly. Dried or stale ingredients may not deliver the same impact, leading to a bland result. When shopping for sesame oil and seeds, opt for high-quality products, as these will elevate your dish’s taste. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli can also add color and nutrition. Always check expiration dates on sauces and oils to ensure they are at their peak freshness.
Balance the Flavors
Striking a balance between sweet, salty, and savory flavors is essential when making Garlic Sesame Chicken. Too much soy sauce can make your dish overly salty, while an excess of sugar can overpower other flavors. Start with small amounts of each ingredient and adjust based on your taste preference. Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to brighten the flavors and cut through any heaviness. Taste as you go; this will help you create a well-rounded dish that everyone will love.
Don’t Skip Marinating
Marinating the chicken is an important step that should not be overlooked in Garlic Sesame Chicken preparation. A good marinade infuses flavor deep into the meat, making each bite satisfying. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and honey for a marinade that packs a punch. Allow at least 30 minutes for marinating; longer is even better if you have time. Refrigerate during this process to keep the chicken safe from bacteria while enhancing its flavor profile.
FAQs
What are the best side dishes for Garlic Sesame Chicken?
When serving Garlic Sesame Chicken, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Steamed rice is a classic choice that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully. You might also consider stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrition. A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken dish. Additionally, if you’re looking for something heartier, consider serving it alongside fried rice or noodles tossed in sesame oil for extra flavor.
Can I make Garlic Sesame Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, preparing Garlic Sesame Chicken ahead of time can save you valuable moments during busy weekdays or special occasions. You can marinate the chicken several hours in advance or even overnight to deepen its flavor profile significantly. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing quality. When you’re ready to serve it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through; just be careful not to overcook it again.
Is Garlic Sesame Chicken healthy?
Garlic Sesame Chicken can be part of a healthy diet when prepared mindfully. The dish features lean protein from chicken breast, which supports muscle growth and repair while being low in fat when skinless cuts are used. The addition of garlic provides health benefits like improved immune function and reduced inflammation. To boost nutritional value further, include plenty of colorful vegetables alongside your chicken; they offer vitamins and minerals essential for overall health while keeping calories in check.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Garlic Sesame Chicken?
Absolutely! Substituting ingredients can make Garlic Sesame Chicken fit various dietary needs or preferences while retaining its deliciousness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce; it offers similar flavor profiles without gluten content. For those who prefer plant-based meals, swap out chicken with tofu or tempeh; both absorb marinades well while providing protein alternatives. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on seasonality—zucchini or mushrooms work great too!
Conclusion for Garlic Sesame Chicken
Garlic Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. By avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking and using stale ingredients, you ensure optimal taste and texture every time you cook it. Balancing flavors enhances its appeal while allowing marination time elevates overall quality significantly. With simple substitutions available for various dietary preferences, this dish remains versatile and accessible to all home cooks looking to impress guests or enjoy family dinners at home!

Garlic Sesame Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Sesame Chicken is a flavorful dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce infused with garlic and sesame. This easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With its sweet and savory notes, Garlic Sesame Chicken is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a well-rounded meal that captures the essence of Asian cuisine.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Marinate the chicken in this mixture for at least 20 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
- Whisk cornstarch with equal parts water until smooth; add to the skillet and stir until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Serve garnished with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg