Name: Oven Baked Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes); 2 large eggs (beaten); 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour); 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs (for a fantastic crunch); 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon onion powder; 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 2.5 tablespoons water; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar; 0.25 cup rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch; 0.25 cup sesame seeds; 0.25 cup scallions (chopped)

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If you’re searching for a delicious, healthier alternative to takeout, look no further than this Oven Baked Sesame Chicken. Juicy, tender pieces of chicken are enveloped in a crispy coating of panko bread crumbs and sesame seeds, then drizzled with a sweet and savory sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that the whole family will love.

Top Reasons to Make Oven Baked Sesame Chicken

Healthy Alternative: Baking instead of frying cuts down on excess oil and calories.
Quick Prep Time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to pop in the oven in no time.
Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger creates a deliciously rich flavor.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, with steamed vegetables, or as part of a salad for a complete meal.
Kid-Friendly: The crispy coating and sweet sauce are sure to appeal to picky eaters.

What We’re Using

1 and 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
2 large eggs: Beaten, these will help the coating stick to the chicken.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour: You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
1 and 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs provide a fantastic crunch.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder beautifully.
4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: A savory base for our sauce that keeps it healthier.
2 and 1/2 tablespoons water: Helps to dilute the soy sauce for a balanced flavor.
2 tablespoons sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a rich, nutty flavor.
3 tablespoons light brown sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
1/4 cup rice vinegar: A touch of acidity to brighten the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Grated, for that zesty kick.
3 cloves garlic: Minced, adding depth to our sauce.
1 and 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce for a perfect consistency.
1/4 cup sesame seeds: For a delightful crunch and added flavor.
1/4 cup scallions: Chopped, for a fresh garnish.

Gear Checklist

Baking Sheet: A sturdy sheet to hold the chicken while it bakes.
Parchment Paper: Optional, but it makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Mixing Bowls: For prepping the chicken and sauce.
Whisk: To beat the eggs and mix the sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for best results.

Cook Oven Baked Sesame Chicken Like This

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a crispy texture without frying.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, the beaten eggs in the second, and the panko bread crumbs in the third.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Take each piece of chicken, dip it in the flour to coat, then into the beaten eggs, and finally, roll it in the panko bread crumbs until fully coated. Place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway for even browning.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, in a saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, water, sesame oil, light brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Toss and Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and place it in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.

What to Use Instead

Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Can replace light brown sugar for a natural sweetener.
Sunflower Oil: If you don’t have sesame oil, sunflower oil can work as a neutral substitute.

Missteps & Fixes

Chicken Not Crispy: Ensure you coat the chicken evenly and give it enough space on the baking sheet for air circulation.
Sauce Too Thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a little more water until you reach the desired consistency.
Overcooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Oven Baked Sesame Chicken is great for meal prep! You can bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. After cooking, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Quick Questions

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture that is ideal for this dish.

What can I serve with Oven Baked Sesame Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower and replace the eggs with a flax egg or aquafaba for breading.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Keep Cooking

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Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Oven Baked Sesame Chicken, don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with friends and family! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table, and the best part is, you can feel good about serving it. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!