Oven Baked Lemony Sesame Chicken
Oven-baked lemon sesame chicken features tangy lemon flavor complemented by toasted sesame seeds, perfect for a flavorful, easy-to-prepare main dish suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, brown sugar, vegetable oil, salt, ground ginger, and dry mustard.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, toss until coated, cover, and refrigerate for several hours to marinate.
- Turn chicken pieces occasionally during marinating.
- Preheat oven to the desired temperature (not specified).
- Remove chicken from marinade, coat with bread crumbs, sesame seeds, and paprika.
- Arrange chicken on a baking sheet and bake until cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine vinegar to the marinade. If you don't have sesame seeds, crushed nuts or panko breadcrumbs can serve as a good substitute. Ensure to coat the chicken evenly for the best texture. Baking at a higher temperature will yield a crispier crust while keeping the chicken juicy. Remember to turn the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemony sesame chicken with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh salad for a light meal. It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a side of carrot soup extraordinaire for a comforting dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and color. For a complete spread, consider offering a dipping sauce on the side to enhance the dish's flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked lemony sesame chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the coating. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Lemony Sesame Chicken contains roughly 365 calories, with 10g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces may cook faster than bone-in chicken. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have liquid brown sugar, you can make a substitute by mixing granulated sugar with a little molasses. Alternatively, you can use maple syrup or honey, but this may slightly alter the flavor profile. Adjust the quantity to taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the marinade. You could also serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).