Chinese cuisine

Sesame Oil Chicken, also known as Ma-You-Ji in Chinese, is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that combines tender chicken with the rich flavor of sesame oil. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great addition to any meal. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Sesame Oil Chicken from start to finish, including selecting the right ingredients, preparing the chicken, and cooking the dish to perfection.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

To make delicious Sesame Oil Chicken, you need to select high-quality ingredients. Here are the main ingredients you will need:

• Chicken: Choose a whole chicken or chicken breast for the best results. The chicken should be fresh and of good quality.
• Sesame oil: This is the main flavoring agent in the dish, so choose a pure and high-quality sesame oil for the best taste.
• Soy sauce: A good-quality soy sauce will enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the dish.
• Sugar: Balances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce and gives it a glossy finish.
• Ginger and garlic: Adds a spicy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Seasoning to taste.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start cooking, you need to prepare the chicken properly. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Cut the chicken: If you are using a whole chicken, cut it into serving-sized pieces. If using chicken breast, cut it into thin strips or cubes.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a bowl and add a few tablespoons of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors and become more tender.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 cup of water. Set this aside for later use.

Cooking the Sesame Oil Chicken

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Here are the steps to follow:

1. Heat the sesame oil: In a wok or a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
2. Add ginger and garlic: Once the oil is hot, add sliced ginger and minced garlic to the wok. Cook for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the wok and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken evenly. The cornstarch in the sauce will help thicken it and give it a glossy finish.
5. Serve and enjoy: Transfer the Sesame Oil Chicken to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Sesame Oil Chicken

To make sure your Sesame Oil Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use high-quality ingredients: As mentioned earlier, using high-quality sesame oil, soy sauce, and other ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your dish.
• Marinate the chicken properly: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight will help it absorb the flavors and become more tender.
• Cook over high heat: Stir-frying over high heat will help lock in the flavors and ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
• Add water carefully: When adding water to the sauce, do so carefully as too much water can make the sauce too thin. Start with less water and add more if needed.
• Serve hot: Serve your Sesame Oil Chicken immediately after cooking to enjoy its best flavor and texture.

Variations of Sesame Oil Chicken

If you want to try something different with your Sesame Oil Chicken, here are some variations you can try:

• Add vegetables: Stir-fry some vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms along with the chicken for a healthier and more colorful dish.
• Use different cuts of chicken: Try using different cuts of chicken such as thighs or drumsticks for a different texture and flavor.
• Use different oils: Try using a combination of oils such as peanut oil or vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.
• Add spices: Add some spices such as red pepper flakes or Szechuan peppercorns for a spicy twist.
• Serve with rice: Serve your Sesame Oil Chicken over rice for a complete meal that’s both delicious and filling.

Conclusion

Sesame Oil Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s easy to make at home. By following our step-by-step guide and tips, you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, Sesame Oil Chicken is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So give it a try today and enjoy this delicious Chinese classic!