Sesame Chicken with Cucumber Slaw

Name: Sesame Chicken with Cucumber Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 cups shredded cucumber; 1 cup shredded carrots; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I absolutely adore this Sesame Chicken with Cucumber Slaw! The combination of tender chicken coated in a savory sesame sauce paired with the crisp, refreshing slaw makes for a dish that feels both comforting and vibrant. I often find myself craving it after a long day, as it’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare. With its mix of textures and flavors, this meal always satisfies my hunger while keeping things light and exciting. You'll find it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even a small gathering with friends.

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:09:28.035Z

Making this Sesame Chicken is always a delight for me. I remember the first time I tried it—I was amazed at how well the tender chicken pairs with the rich sesame sauce. I love that a simple combination of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates such a depth of flavor. One tip is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; it truly enhances the taste.

The cucumber slaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the dish beautifully. I often experiment with different toppings, like chopped scallions or sesame seeds, to elevate the presentation and flavor. It's always a hit at my dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender chicken coated in a savory sesame-rich sauce
Crisp cucumber slaw adds a refreshing crunch
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings

The Role of Sesame in Flavor Development

Sesame oil plays a critical role in enhancing the flavor profile of this dish. Its nutty aroma and taste add depth to the chicken's savory sauce. If you're looking to make your own sesame oil, toasting raw sesame seeds over medium heat until golden can intensify the flavor even more. Just be careful not to burn them, as that can impart an undesirable bitterness.

In this recipe, sesame seeds also serve a dual purpose—acting as both a garnish and a source of crunch. When toasted lightly, they become aromatic and contribute to the overall texture of the dish. Using a mix of white and black sesame seeds can add a visual appeal and a nuanced flavor complexity that enhances your dining experience.

Perfecting Your Cucumber Slaw

The cucumber slaw acts as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sesame chicken. Choosing the right cucumbers is crucial; English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skins and fewer seeds, which keep the slaw crisp. If using regular cucumbers, consider peeling them to avoid bitterness. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture after shredding, which helps prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.

For those looking to spice up the slaw, consider adding thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers for color and crunch. A splash of lime juice can also brighten the flavors, making it tangy and more vibrant. Preparing the slaw just before serving ensures it retains its fresh texture, enhancing the meal's overall contrast.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious Sesame Chicken and Cucumber Slaw.

For the Sesame Chicken

1 pound chicken breast, sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For the Cucumber Slaw

2 cups shredded cucumber
1 cup shredded carrots
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon sesame oil

With these ingredients ready, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Sesame Chicken with Cucumber Slaw.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Add the sliced chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Slaw

In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cucumber and carrots. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to combine.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken along with the marinade. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken.

Serve

Place the sesame chicken on a serving plate alongside the cucumber slaw. Enjoy your delicious meal!

This dish comes together quickly and is perfect for a satisfying meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with scallions or a drizzle of additional sesame oil. Make sure not to overcook the chicken, as you want it to remain tender and juicy.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This sesame chicken can be marinated in advance, making it a great candidate for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken for up to 12 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Just remember to shorten the marination time to avoid overly salty chicken if using a stronger soy sauce.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will keep well for 3-4 days, while the slaw is best consumed within 1-2 days to maintain its crunchiness. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out.

Scaling and Serving Suggestions

This recipe is easily scalable. Simply double the amounts for a party or a larger gathering, ensuring you have ample space in the skillet for cooking. It’s important to give the chicken enough room; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, resulting in a less desirable texture.

For a complete meal, consider serving the sesame chicken and cucumber slaw with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the rich sauce. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions can enhance the dish visually and provide a fresh flavor burst. Pairing it with a light salad or miso soup can create a well-rounded dinner experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with tofu, shrimp, or even pork.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with firm tofu and ensure to use a plant-based soy sauce.

→ What can I serve with sesame chicken?

It's great on its own, but you can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.