Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe

Nutty sesame oil and zesty fresh ginger elevate this sesame ginger chicken to a vibrant favorite you’ll always want at the heart of your weeknight stir-fry table. It’s delicious with a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice, steamed bok choy, a side of crispy wontons, a cold glass of green tea; in fact most things.

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Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• 1 1/4 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons starch (cornstarch or potato starch)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
• 2 stalks green onion, chopped (divided)
• Vegetable oil, for sautéing

For the Sesame Ginger Sauce:

• 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

How To Make Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe

1. Whisk the aromatic marinade: Start by preparing your flavor base. Grate the fresh ginger, mince the garlic, and chop the green onions. In a jar or medium bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and sesame seeds. Set aside a small handful of green onions for the final garnish.
2. Marinate for depth: Place your cubed chicken thighs in a bowl and pour in exactly half of the prepared sauce. Toss well to ensure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the ginger and honey to penetrate the meat, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful during the high-heat sear.
3. Apply the velvet coating: Before cooking, set aside 1 teaspoon of your starch. Take the remaining starch and mix it directly into the marinating chicken. This creates a thin, “velveting” layer that helps the chicken develop a golden crust while giving the final sauce something to cling to.
4. Sear to golden perfection: Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté half of the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes per side until it is golden brown and cooked through.
5. Thicken the glaze: In a small ramekin, mix your reserved teaspoon of starch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour the remaining half of the marinade into the pan with the chicken, followed immediately by the starch slurry. Stir constantly as the heat hits the liquid—it will thicken almost instantly into a dark, glossy glaze that beautifully coats every piece of chicken.
6. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat as soon as the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Sprinkle the reserved green onions and extra sesame seeds over the top. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the sauce is at its shiniest.

Recipe Tips

• Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs are highly recommended for this recipe. They are much more forgiving under high heat and have a richer flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold ginger and sesame notes.
• Fresh Ginger is Vital: Avoid using ground ginger from a jar. The “zing” of freshly grated ginger provides a bright, spicy contrast to the sweet honey that dried ginger simply cannot replicate.
• The Slurry Secret: Never add dry starch directly to a hot pan; it will clump instantly. Always mix it with cold water first to ensure your sauce stays silky and smooth.
• Stove Heat: Make sure your pan is truly hot before adding the chicken. A quick sear is what locks in the juices and creates those delicious caramelized edges.

What To Serve With Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe?

This Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe is a bold, savory meal that needs a neutral or fresh pairing! Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice is the quintessential choice for soaking up the sticky ginger sauce. For a lighter touch, a side of Garlic Ginger Broccoli adds a lovely green crunch that pairs perfectly with the honey-glazed chicken! A handful of Crispy Chow Mein Noodles or a glass of Chilled Sake pairs wonderfully with the sesame and green onion notes.

How To Store Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken further as it cools.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tiny splash of water to loosen the glaze. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken pieces “rubbery.”
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Sesame Ginger Chicken Recipe Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 340 kcal (per serving)
• Total Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on starch type.

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