| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 310 | 8g | 1.5g | 38g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 3g | 23g | 1.2g |
One of my favorite dishes to make at home is the Sesame Seed Teriyaki Chicken. It’s a recipe that perfectly captures the spirit of fusion cuisine, marrying the sweet and savory flavors often found in Asian culinary traditions with the vibrant and juicy essence of tropical fruits. As a native New Yorker, I’ve always been enamored with how this city brings diverse flavors together in unexpected ways, and this dish is no exception.
The Magic of Sesame Seed Teriyaki Chicken
You might be wondering why this particular recipe stands out among the myriad of chicken dishes out there. The answer lies in its robust yet balanced flavor profile. The combination of low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar creates a complex and irresistible sauce that clings lovingly to the chicken pieces. Add to that the warmth of garlic and ginger, and you have a dish that tantalizes the taste buds. The crowning glory, however, is the pineapple chunks. They bring a burst of sweetness that not only complements the savory elements but also adds a refreshing note to each bite.
A Healthy Yet Indulgent Option
If you’re health-conscious, this recipe has plenty to offer. Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, making them a healthier alternative to other cuts of meat. The inclusion of bell peppers and pineapples adds fiber and a variety of essential vitamins, including Vitamin C. The sesame seeds not only add a delightful crunch but are also rich in healthy fats and minerals like zinc and magnesium.
What’s more, the use of low-sodium soy sauce ensures that you can enjoy the delightful umami flavors without worrying too much about sodium intake. For those who are mindful of their carbohydrate consumption, you can easily swap out the white rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
This dish is somewhat reminiscent of sweet and sour chicken but with a more nuanced and sophisticated flavor profile. It also pairs exceptionally well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light Asian-inspired salad. If you’re hosting a dinner, consider serving this alongside Teriyaki Salmon Stir-Fry or even a vibrant Thai Cucumber Salad for a complete meal experience.
So next time you’re in the mood for a culinary adventure that combines the best of many worlds, give this Sesame Seed Teriyaki Chicken a try. It’s a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Method
Step One
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Set the sauce mixture aside.
Step Two
In a small bowl, mix the water and cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Add this mixture to the sauce mixture and stir to combine.
Step Three
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Four
Add the red and green bell pepper slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the peppers begin to soften.
Step Five
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken and bell peppers. Stir well to coat all the ingredients with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step Six
Add the pineapple chunks and sesame seeds to the skillet. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step Seven
Serve the Sesame Seed Teriyaki Chicken over cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy!
