Sesame Seed Baked Chicken
Juicy baked chicken coated with sesame seeds and marinated in Italian dressing, offering a savory, slightly nutty flavor that's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in Italian dressing overnight in the refrigerator.
- One hour before serving, preheat oven to 375°F.
- Melt margarine in a flat pan.
- Roll chicken pieces in sesame seeds.
- Place chicken in the pan with melted margarine.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then turn the chicken.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes more.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the sesame seeds before rolling the chicken. If you're out of margarine, butter is a great substitute, and you can also use olive oil for a healthier option. To ensure even cooking, try to cut the chicken pieces into similar sizes. This recipe pairs beautifully with Aunt Mattie'S Cucumber Salad for a refreshing side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sesame seed baked chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs nicely with rice or quinoa to soak up any flavor from the chicken. For a delightful dessert, try serving Grandma Bounds Syrup Cookies afterward, creating a comforting meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sesame seed baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the skin remains crispy. For best results, avoid using the microwave as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Seed Baked Chicken contains roughly 780 calories, with 19g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1452mg per serving (63% 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 skinless chicken for this recipe?
While skinless chicken can be used, the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor during baking. If you prefer skinless, consider marinating the chicken longer to infuse more flavor and ensure it doesn't dry out during cooking.
What can I substitute for Italian dressing?
If you don't have Italian dressing, a homemade mix of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs can work well. Alternatively, vinaigrette or even a simple blend of lemon juice and olive oil can provide a tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the sesame seeds or the marinade. You could also use a spicy Italian dressing or serve the baked chicken with a hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy 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).