Ma Qiu Ji (fragrant Sesame Chicken)

Ma Qiu Ji, or Fragrant Sesame Chicken, is a classic dish from Shandong Cuisine known for its aromatic sesame flavor and tender chicken. This recipe is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a popular choice for family dinners and special occasions.

Ma Qiu Ji (fragrant Sesame Chicken)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken pieces and marinate for 15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
  4. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens.
  5. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the chicken. Toss to combine.
  6. Transfer the fragrant sesame chicken to a serving dish and serve hot with steamed rice.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
15 minutes
Total time:
35 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large skillet Bowls for marinating and mixing

Tools

Cutting board Knife Measuring spoons Measuring cup

Serving suggestions

Serve the fragrant sesame chicken with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant before adding them to the dish.

Cost

$12