Chicken Sesame Stir Fry

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a dish that you typically enjoy from your favorite takeout place right at home. That’s why I love preparing Chicken Sesame Stir Fry. It’s not just about the flavors, but also the joy of creating something delicious with fresh ingredients. The aroma of the sesame oil as it heats up in the pan immediately transports me to that bustling restaurant where I first fell in love with this meal. Every time I make it, I find myself reminiscing about those evenings spent sharing food with friends and family, laughing over meals that fill our stomachs and warm our hearts.

What I adore most is how simple it is to bring together the key players in this dish. The combination of tender pieces of chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and the crunch of green beans creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. And let’s not forget the glaze of rich teriyaki sauce that binds everything together, giving that beautiful glossy finish. With a quick stir-fry, you get a wonderfully satisfying meal that’s better than any takeout option around!

So, whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Chicken Sesame Stir Fry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the reasons why this recipe deserves a special place in your recipe book.

What to Buy for Chicken Sesame Stir Fry

When it comes to making Chicken Sesame Stir Fry, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and flavorful sauces come together to create this delightful dish. I love selecting vibrant, seasonal produce for this meal, which not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to gather.

• 1 tablespoon canola oil or coconut oil – This oil serves as the perfect base for frying and helps enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil – Adds a nutty, rich flavor that is essential in Asian cuisine.
• 1/4 cup chicken stock – This will keep your stir fry moist and flavorful.
• 1/3 cup clean-eating teriyaki sauce (divided, homemade or store-bought) – The sweet and savory glaze that ties all the flavors together.
• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts, sliced into strips – The star protein of this dish that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and sliced into strips – Adds a splash of color and sweetness.
• 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and sliced into strips – Offers additional nutrients and flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – The aromatic element that enhances the dish’s overall taste.
• 2 cups green beans, fresh, stemmed and chopped – Provides a lovely crunch and color.
• 1/2 cup scallions (chopped, sliced diagonally) or chopped cilantro – Adds freshness and a pop of flavor.
• 1/8 cup sesame seeds – Toasted for some added crunch and nuttiness.

How to Assemble Chicken Sesame Stir Fry

Cooking Chicken Sesame Stir Fry is not only simple but also a fun experience in the kitchen. Let’s get started! Gather your ingredients and follow these steps for a delicious result.

1. Start by toasting the sesame seeds. In a dry skillet, place the seeds over medium heat, stirring frequently. You’ll know they’re ready when they become golden and fragrant. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once done, set them aside.
2. Next, prepare the chicken. Coat the slices in half of the teriyaki sauce. In a large pan or wok, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the coated chicken. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until the meat is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. In the same pan, add the green beans along with a splash of chicken stock. Cover the pan and let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until the green beans are crisp but tender.
4. Now, add the sesame oil and the sliced bell peppers to the pan. Cook uncovered for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peppers should be tender yet still vibrant in color.
5. Next, add the minced garlic and the remaining teriyaki sauce to the mixture. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds. This step is crucial; you want the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring it into the mix. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through. The ingredients should be well combined, creating a beautiful blend of colors and aromas.
7. Finally, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the stir fry and garnish with scallions or chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with either brown rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Recipe Notes about Chicken Sesame Stir Fry

To help you get the most out of your Chicken Sesame Stir Fry, here are some useful tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be enjoyed for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry in a suitable container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with steamed brown rice or whole-grain noodles for a wholesome meal.
• Meal Prep: This dish is excellent for meal prep. Make a double batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Substitutions: Use tempeh or tofu for a vegetarian version. Just ensure they are well-seasoned for the best flavor.

What to Serve Alongside Chicken Sesame Stir Fry

When it comes to serving Chicken Sesame Stir Fry, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Brown Rice: A classic choice, it absorbs the flavors beautifully.
• Noodles: Try serving with whole grain or rice noodles for a delightful twist.
• Side Salad: A light salad with a sesame dressing can complement the stir fry perfectly.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or bok choy steamed to perfection make a nutritious side dish.
• Occasions: Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or casual gatherings with friends.
• Storage Tips: Make sure to refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness.
• Seasonal Pairings: Consider providing seasonal fruits like watermelon or mango for a refreshing dessert.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Chicken Sesame Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. I encourage you to give it a try this week!

Your family will love the taste, and you’ll enjoy how easy it is to whip up. Don’t wait—make it tonight!

Chicken Sesame Stir Fry

Craving a quick and delicious meal? This Chicken Sesame Stir Fry combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich teriyaki sauce for a delightful weeknight dinner. Perfectly easy to make, it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chicken stock
• 1/3 cup clean-eating teriyaki sauce
• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken thighs
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow or orange bell pepper
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 cups green beans
• 1/2 cup scallions
• 1/8 cup sesame seeds

Equipment

• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Set aside.
2. Coat the chicken strips in half of the teriyaki sauce. Add canola oil to a pan or wok over medium heat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Add the green beans and chicken stock to the pan. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, until the beans are crisp but tender. Add sesame oil and the bell peppers to the pan with the beans. Cook uncovered for about 4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and remaining teriyaki sauce, and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir. Cook for one minute until warmed through. Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Garnish with scallions or cilantro. Serve with brown rice or noodles. Enjoy!

Notes

To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Serve alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!