Sesame Chicken
Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that features tender, baked chicken breasts coated in a nutty and flavorful crust of sesame seeds and almonds. With a hint of paprika, this dish is perfect for families looking for a healthy yet delicious meal option that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a shallow baking pan at 300°.
- Remove the pan from the oven and increase the setting to 400°.
- Mix the egg and milk in a bowl.
- Shake together in a paper bag the flour, almonds, sesame seeds, paprika, and salt.
- Dip the chicken in the egg mixture, then shake in the bag to coat with flour.
- Lay the chicken in the pan, and turn over to coat with melted butter.
- Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Turn the pieces over and bake for another 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture. You can substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour if desired, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts can add more moisture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken can work, but adjust baking times to ensure it's heated through. Don’t forget to taste before serving to adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame chicken over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. It pairs beautifully with Ramen Cabbage Salad for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation. A side of low-fat Pumpkin Soup can complement this dish nicely, creating a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the coating. You can also microwave, but it may lose its crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Chicken contains roughly 247 calories, with 10g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2442mg per serving (106% 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 make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this sesame chicken gluten-free by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Make sure to check the labels of your ingredients, like baking powder, to ensure they're gluten-free as well.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Olive oil can also be used for a healthier fat choice, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Just melt it in the pan as you would with butter.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced. If using smaller pieces, they may cook faster, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
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).