Go Back

Sesame Ginger Chicken - Bright, Savory, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-size pieces
  • Soy sauce: Low-sodium preferred
  • Fresh ginger: Peeled and finely grated
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced
  • Honey or brown sugar: For sweetness
  • Rice vinegar or lime juice: Bright acidity
  • Sesame oil: Toasted for deep nutty flavor
  • Neutral oil: Avocado, canola, or grapeseed for high-heat cooking
  • Cornstarch: For thickening and optional light coating
  • Chicken broth or water: Helps loosen the sauce
  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha: Optional heat
  • Sesame seeds: Toasted if possible
  • Green onions: Thinly sliced for garnish
  • Optional veggies: Broccoli florets, snap peas, bell pepper, or carrots
  • Cooked rice or noodles: For serving

Method
 

  1. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk 1/3 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar), 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 3 minced garlic cloves, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. In a separate small cup, mix 2 teaspoons cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water to create a slurry. Set both aside.
  2. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry and cut into 1-inch pieces. Toss with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and a pinch of salt and pepper. This light coating helps with browning and keeps the chicken tender.
  3. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1–2 tablespoons neutral oil. You want it hot enough that the chicken sizzles immediately.
  4. Sear in batches: Add half the chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes, flip, and cook another 2–3 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken. Avoid crowding so you get good color.
  5. Add veggies (optional): If using, add a splash more oil. Stir-fry broccoli, bell pepper, snap peas, or carrots for 2–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Season lightly with salt.
  6. Combine and glaze: Return chicken to the pan. Stir the sauce once more, pour it in, and bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
  7. Finish with sesame: Sprinkle in 1–2 teaspoons sesame seeds and a final drizzle of toasted sesame oil, if you like. Taste and adjust—add a splash more soy for salt, honey for sweetness, or vinegar for brightness.
  8. Garnish and serve: Top with sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds. Serve over hot rice or noodles, making sure each serving gets plenty of sauce.