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Sticky Baked Sesame Chicken - featured image

Sticky Baked Sesame Chicken: 4 Meals in 1 Hour


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A reliable meal prep recipe for sticky baked sesame chicken that stays juicy and flavorful when reheated. This dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch (divided)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup (110g) honey
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
  4. Arrange chicken cubes in a single layer on the rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Remove and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, water, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
  6. Whisk over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Stir in the cornstarch slurry if a thicker consistency is desired. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  8. Return baked chicken to the warm pan or back to the oven for 2 minutes. Toss chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
  9. Sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For best texture, reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. If microwaving, place a damp paper towel over the container to prevent drying out. Ensure chicken is patted dry before coating to avoid sogginess. Do not overcrowd the pan during baking to ensure crispiness.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approx. 1/4 of the r
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 30
  • Sodium: 900
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 35

Keywords: meal prep, sesame chicken, baked chicken, sticky chicken, healthy dinner, high protein, gluten-free option, dairy-free