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Sesame Oil Chicken

Tender poached chicken tossed with fragrant sesame oil, ginger, and scallions, served chilled or warm. An elegant Taiwanese classic that's had a recent viral revival as a trending cold dish.

40 minEasyServes 4320 cal/serving

TaiwaneseDinnerStovetopStandardGluten-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 oz fresh ginger, cut into 1/4 inch slices
  • 4 scallions, cut into 2 inch pieces
  • 4 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp white sesame seeds (toasted)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring 4 cups chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.

  2. 2

    Add 2 oz cut into 1/4 inch slices fresh ginger and 4 cut into 2 inch pieces scallions to the broth.

  3. 3

    Gently place 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the hot broth and return to a simmer.

  4. 4

    Cook for 12-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).

  5. 5

    Remove chicken from the pot and let cool slightly, about 5 minutes.

  6. 6

    Once chicken is cool enough to handle, cut into bite-sized pieces or tear into strips.

  7. 7

    In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1/2 tsp sugar.

  8. 8

    Place chicken in a serving bowl and pour the dressing over it.

  9. 9

    Toss gently to coat.

  10. 10

    Garnish with 2 tbsp white sesame seeds (toasted) and 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro.

  11. 11

    Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Questions

What internal temperature should Sesame Oil Chicken reach?

For Sesame Oil Chicken, the target internal temperature is 165 F (about 75 C), given in step 4. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

What can I use instead of rice vinegar in Sesame Oil Chicken?

The entry for Sesame Oil Chicken calls for 1 tbsp rice vinegar. In its place: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, softened with a pinch of sugar, is close. Avoid plain distilled vinegar at full strength, which is much sharper.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in Sesame Oil Chicken?

Yes. Boneless thighs at the same weight are more forgiving and stay juicier. Give them two to four minutes longer; they are at their best around 175 F rather than 165 F. As written, the entry for Sesame Oil Chicken uses 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

Does Sesame Oil Chicken contain sesame?

Yes: 4 tbsp sesame oil and 2 tbsp white sesame seeds (toasted). The full allergen list for this entry is gluten, soy and sesame. Seeds used as a garnish can simply be left off; the oil has no true substitute. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

How do I store and reheat Sesame Oil Chicken?

Refrigerate what is left of Sesame Oil Chicken within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. The grain firms up as it chills; add a spoonful of water before reheating.

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