Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos

There’s something truly magical about the combination of flavors in Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos. Picture yourself winding down after a long day, craving something that’s a little bit crunchy, a little bit savory, and a whole lot of delicious. That’s when these tacos come into play. With the delightful crunch of sesame, the sweetness of ginger, and the heartiness of chicken, each bite takes you on a flavorful journey. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these tacos are sure to impress. They bring a unique twist to the traditional taco night, making it a festive occasion every time. I remember the first time I made these; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. The best part? They’re easy to whip up, turning a regular weeknight into something special.

What makes Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos stand out is not just their incredible flavor but also the way they bring people together. There’s a certain joy in sharing a meal where everyone can assemble their own tacos with their favorite toppings. I love the fact that they can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. You can add fresh veggies, drizzle some yum yum sauce, and let your creativity shine. Plus, they’re a hit with both adults and kids alike, making them perfect for family gatherings or casual parties. Trust me, once you try these tacos, you’ll be dreaming about them long after they’re gone!

What You Need for Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos

In crafting the perfect Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos, every ingredient plays a vital role. The balance of flavors and textures is key to making these tacos a standout dish. Starting with fresh chicken and a blend of savory sauces, each component contributes to a deliciously cohesive experience. The combination of spices, zesty orange zest, and the crunch of sesame seeds creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes – The star of the show, providing protein and substance.
• 1 egg white – Helps the chicken adhere to the coating for a crispy finish.
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest – Brightens up the dish with citrus notes.
• 1/3 cup cornstarch – Creates a crispy coating when baked.
• Sesame or olive oil, for drizzling – Adds richness and aids in browning.
• 1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce – Additional flavoring for the sauce.
• 1/3 cup orange juice + 2 tablespoons zest – Enhances the sweetness and tang of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – A touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
• 1-3 tablespoons chili paste (I love Gochujang paste) – For that spicy kick.
• 2 teaspoons creamy peanut butter – Adds creaminess and richness.
• 2-4 cloves garlic, chopped – A flavor enhancer that’s hard to beat.
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger – Brings warmth and zest.
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds – For a crunchy finish and nutty flavor.
• 12 hard shell tacos – The vessel for all the deliciousness.
• Nori sheets, lettuce, kimchi, cilantro, green onion, and queso fresco or your favorite cheese, for serving – Adds freshness and personalization.
• Yum yum style sauce, for serving – A deliciously creamy topping option.

Making Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delicious Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos. This process is straightforward and so rewarding! Follow these simple steps to bring your taco dreams to life.

1. Preheat your oven to 475° F. This high temperature will give the chicken a lovely crispness. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, egg white, tamari or soy sauce, and orange zest. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade. It should become glossy and fragrant.
3. Next, take a separate bowl and add the cornstarch. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces through the cornstarch to create a nice coating. This step is crucial for achieving that ultimate crunch!
4. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with some sesame or olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Bake for 8 minutes, then carefully flip the pieces over and bake for another 3 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for golden-brown color and a cooked-through texture.
5. While the chicken is baking, you can whip up the sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the remaining tamari or soy sauce, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, chili paste, creamy peanut butter, chopped garlic, and ginger. This sauce is going to elevate the flavor of your tacos significantly.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and pour the sauce over it. Toss well to coat all the pieces evenly; this is where the magic happens. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra crunch.
7. Now, it’s time to assemble! If you’re using nori, stuff it into the hard shell tacos first. Then, fill the shells with the saucy chicken and top with your favorite garnishes like kimchi, lettuce, and cilantro.
8. Serve immediately with any extra sauce from the baking sheet and/or yum yum style sauce. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos with friends and family!

Recipe Variations about Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos

There’s no limit to how you can customize your Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos! Here are some tips to switch things up and make the recipe your own.

• Protein Options: Substitute the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Style: Use a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of chili paste to kick up the heat.
• Crunch Factor: Add shredded cabbage or carrots for an extra crunch.
• Flavor Boost: Try adding lime juice or zest to the sauce for a zesty flavor.

Serving Options for Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos

When it comes to serving Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos, the possibilities are endless! Think about what complements the flavors of the dish and the season.

• Side Salads: A fresh cucumber or Asian-style salad pairs wonderfully.
• Fresh Salsas: Consider a mango or pineapple salsa for a sweet contrast.
• Occasions: These tacos are perfect for casual dinners, summer barbecues, or even game days.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve them with fresh corn on the cob or grilled veggies.
• Storage Tips: Store leftover chicken filling separately from the taco shells to maintain their texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos truly shine with their unique blend of flavors and textures, making them a standout choice for any meal. I encourage you to give these a try; they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also bring a delightful twist to your dinner table. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos

Craving something delicious? Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos offer a perfect blend of crunchy and savory, making them an irresistible choice for dinner! With zesty flavors and a satisfying crunch, these tacos are a must-try for anyone looking for an easy weeknight meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts cut into cubes
• 1 each egg white
• 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• sesame or olive oil for drizzling
• 1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce
• 1/3 cup orange juice plus 2 tablespoons zest
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1-3 tablespoons chili paste (I love Gochujang paste)
• 2 teaspoons creamy peanut butter
• 2-4 cloves garlic chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 12 each hard shell tacos
• nori sheets, lettuce, kimchi, cilantro, green onion, and queso fresco or your favorite cheese for serving
• yum yum style sauce for serving

Equipment

• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 475° F. This high temperature will give the chicken a lovely crispness. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, egg white, tamari or soy sauce, and orange zest. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade. It should become glossy and fragrant.
3. 3. Next, take a separate bowl and add the cornstarch. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces through the cornstarch to create a nice coating. This step is crucial for achieving that ultimate crunch!
4. 4. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with some sesame or olive oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Bake for 8 minutes, then carefully flip the pieces over and bake for another 3 to 5 minutes. You’re looking for golden-brown color and a cooked-through texture.
5. 5. While the chicken is baking, you can whip up the sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the remaining tamari or soy sauce, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, chili paste, creamy peanut butter, chopped garlic, and ginger. This sauce is going to elevate the flavor of your tacos significantly.
6. 6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and pour the sauce over it. Toss well to coat all the pieces evenly; this is where the magic happens. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra crunch.
7. 7. Now, it’s time to assemble! If you’re using nori, stuff it into the hard shell tacos first. Then, fill the shells with the saucy chicken and top with your favorite garnishes like kimchi, lettuce, and cilantro.
8. 8. Serve immediately with any extra sauce from the baking sheet and/or yum yum style sauce. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos with friends and family!

Notes

• Yum Yum Sauce: Combine 1-2 tablespoons of chili paste, 1 tablespoon ketchup, and either 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mayo. Season with 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt. The sauce will keep for 1 week in the fridge.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.