Savory And Sweet Garlic-Sesame Chicken Thighs

I have been making these garlic-sesame chicken thighs for years, and they never disappoint. The aroma of the garlic and sesame filling the kitchen is always a sure sign that dinner is going to be delicious. The combination of flavors is so simple yet so flavorful, making this a go-to dinner in my household. I love that it’s relatively easy to make, and the flavors can be adjusted to suit any palate.

Garlic-Sesame Chicken Thighs Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 6 tablespoons water, divided
• 1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and 2 tablespoons water. Stir until combined.
• Place chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish.
• Drizzle sesame oil over the chicken thighs and sprinkle minced garlic over them.
• Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken thighs and rub it around to coat.
• Place in preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
• In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch, remaining 4 tablespoons water and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until combined.
• Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and pour the cornstarch mixture over them.
• Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
• Remove from oven and sprinkle with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
• Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving size: 1 chicken thigh
• Calories: 245
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 27g
• Sodium: 810mg

How can garlic-sesame chicken thighs be used in a variety of dishes?

Garlic-sesame chicken thighs can be used in a variety of dishes thanks to their robust flavor and tender texture. The combination of garlic and sesame gives the thighs a unique flavor that can be used to create a range of exciting meals. From stir-fries and wraps to tacos and salads, these flavorful thighs can easily be adapted to suit any cuisine. Here are some ideas for how to use garlic-sesame chicken thighs in a variety of dishes.

Stir-Fries: Garlic-sesame chicken thighs are an excellent addition to stir-fries. The flavor of the garlic and sesame pairs nicely with vegetables, and the tender texture of the chicken helps to make a complete meal. To make a stir-fry with garlic-sesame chicken thighs, simply stir-fry the thighs with some vegetables, season with soy sauce and sesame oil, and serve over steamed rice or noodles.

Wraps: Garlic-sesame chicken thighs are also great in wraps. Simply shred the cooked thighs and mix with shredded lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers. Top with a dollop of garlic-sesame dressing and wrap in a warm tortilla for a quick and delicious meal.

Tacos: The flavor of garlic-sesame chicken thighs also works well in tacos. Simply fry the thighs until crispy and serve with taco shells, lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite toppings.

Salads: For a light and healthy meal, garlic-sesame chicken thighs are also a great addition to salads. Simply mix the cooked thighs with some shredded lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers, and top with a garlic-sesame dressing.

No matter what type of dish you’re making, garlic-sesame chicken thighs are a great option for adding flavor and texture. With the right ingredients, these flavorful thighs can easily be adapted to suit any cuisine.

What are the key flavor notes that garlic-sesame chicken thighs provide?

Garlic-sesame chicken thighs provide a flavor combination of savory garlic, sweet sesame and a hint of umami.

Garlic is a key component in this dish and adds a deep savory flavor. When combined with sesame, the flavor is further enhanced and balanced, creating a savory-sweet combination. The umami element in garlic-sesame chicken thighs comes from the sesame, which adds a subtle nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.

In terms of preparation, garlic-sesame chicken thighs start with a marinade of garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and a few other ingredients. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor before it is cooked. Once cooked, the garlic and sesame oil caramelize in the pan, creating a delicious crust that further enhances the flavor of the dish.

Overall, garlic-sesame chicken thighs provide a flavor combination of savory garlic, sweet sesame and a hint of umami. The marinade adds depth and complexity to the flavor, while the cooking process enhances the flavor further. For those looking for a delicious dish with an explosion of flavor, garlic-sesame chicken thighs are a great option.

What are the health benefits of garlic-sesame chicken thighs?

The health benefits of garlic-sesame chicken thighs are numerous. Here are some of the key benefits:

• High Protein: Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle and other tissues in the body.
• Low Fat: Chicken thighs are low in fat and calories, making them an excellent choice for people who are trying to maintain a healthy weight.
• Vitamin B6 and Iron: Chicken thighs are a good source of vitamin B6 and iron, both of which are important for energy production and red blood cell formation.
• Zinc: Chicken thighs are also a good source of zinc, which is essential for a healthy immune system and wound healing.
• Garlic and Sesame: Garlic and sesame are both excellent sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chicken thighs are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and can help reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Overall, garlic-sesame chicken thighs provide a variety of healthy nutrients and can be an excellent addition to any diet.

Are there any tips to get the most flavor out of garlic-sesame chicken thighs?

Yes, there are several tips to help you get the most flavor out of garlic-sesame chicken thighs. Here are a few:

• Marinate the chicken: marinating your chicken thighs in garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce for an hour or two will help to bring out the flavors of the sauce.
• Sear the chicken: searing your chicken in a hot pan will lock in the flavor and caramelize the garlic and sesame seeds.
• Use a thermometer: using a thermometer to ensure that your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and the flavor is at its peak.
• Adjust the seasoning: adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let the chicken rest: letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes will allow the juices to redistribute for a juicier, more flavorful chicken.

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to get the most flavor out of your garlic-sesame chicken thighs.

What are the advantages of using chicken thighs instead of other parts of the chicken?

Chicken thighs are an excellent option for those looking to prepare a flavorful and juicy dish. Compared to other parts of the chicken, thighs offer several advantages.

First and foremost, chicken thighs are much more flavorful than other cuts of chicken. This is because they contain more fat, which helps keep the meat moist and juicy during cooking. Furthermore, thighs are generally easier to cook than other parts of the chicken, making them popular among home cooks.

Another benefit of using chicken thighs is that they are relatively inexpensive. This makes them a great option for budget-conscious cooks, as their low cost makes them more affordable than other cuts of chicken. Furthermore, they can be cooked in a variety of ways, such as baking, sautéing, or grilling, making them a versatile option for any meal.

Lastly, chicken thighs are a great source of lean protein. This makes them a great choice for those looking to boost their protein intake or for those following a healthy diet. Furthermore, they are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and zinc.

In conclusion, chicken thighs are an excellent option for those looking to prepare a flavorful and juicy dish. Compared to other parts of the chicken, thighs offer several advantages, including more flavor, easier cooking, a lower cost, and a good source of lean protein.