Who doesn’t love a quick and flavorful dish that feels like it came straight from a restaurant? Our Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something deliciously simple. This creamy, nutty dressing, a staple in Japanese cuisine, elevates the humble chicken into a savory masterpiece.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Whether you’re serving it over a crisp salad, alongside steamed rice, or as a protein-packed snack, it’s guaranteed to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, we’ll show you how to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make this flavor-packed Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken. Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to get started:
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound, sliced thinly)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral oil for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Marinade & Sauce
- 4 tablespoons Kewpie Sesame Dressing (the star of this recipe, creamy and nutty)
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce (for added depth and umami)
For Garnish (optional but recommended for added texture and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped (optional)
Serving Suggestions (optional pairings)
- Steamed rice or noodles (to make it a complete meal)
- A mix of fresh greens (for serving it salad-style)
Tools And Equipment
To prepare the Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken, we’ll need a handful of essential tools and equipment. These items ensure smooth preparation and precise cooking:
- Cutting board: For trimming and prepping the chicken breasts.
- Sharp knife: To slice and clean the chicken effectively.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping the chicken while cooking to ensure even searing.
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan: A must for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior on the chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in getting the right balance of Kewpie Sesame Dressing and soy sauce.
- Basting brush (optional): To apply extra sauce while grilling or searing.
Handy Tips:
- Using a heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet can help retain heat evenly, preventing burns and ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
- If grilling, ensure the grill pan or skillet is hot before adding the chicken to guarantee a nice sear.
- Always keep an extra bowl handy to avoid cross-contamination when handling raw chicken.
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting board | Prepping and trimming chicken. |
| Sharp knife | Slicing and cleaning chicken for a polished presentation. |
| Mixing bowl | Mixing marinade and coating chicken evenly. |
| Tongs or spatula | Ensuring the chicken is flipped and cooked evenly. |
| Non-stick skillet | Achieving golden-brown sear on chicken. |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensuring accurate balance of marinade ingredients. |
| Basting brush (optional) | Applying additional marinade or sauce during cooking if needed. |
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create our Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken recipe. Each step ensures the chicken is tender, flavorful, and perfectly paired with the nutty richness of the dressing.
Prep
- Lay the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts on a clean cutting board.
- Trim any excess fat or gristle using a sharp knife.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for an even sear.
- Lightly season both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Marinade The Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of Kewpie Sesame Dressing with 2 tablespoons soy sauce.
- Whisk together until fully blended for a smooth marinade.
- Place the prepped chicken breasts into the bowl, coating them thoroughly in the marinade mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
Cook The Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
- Once the oil shimmers, use tongs to carefully place the marinated chicken into the pan.
- Sear each side for 4–5 minutes, ensuring the exterior turns golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook for another 8–10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest for 5 minutes, ensuring the juices redistribute evenly.
Prepare Additional Ingredients
- Optional Garnishes: Toast 1 tablespoon sesame seeds in a dry skillet over low heat until golden and fragrant. Chop 2 green onions and a small handful of cilantro for freshness.
- Prepare your base: cook steamed rice, noodles, or assemble a fresh salad mix of greens like arugula and spinach.
Assemble The Dish
- Slice the rested chicken into thin strips, cutting against the grain for tenderness.
- Arrange the slices over your chosen base (steamed rice, noodles, or salad).
- Drizzle an extra 2 tablespoons Kewpie Sesame Dressing over the dish for added creaminess and flavor.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and cilantro as garnish for a pop of color and texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing the Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken in advance is a straightforward way to save time while ensuring incredible flavor. Follow these steps for optimal results when making this dish ahead of time:
1. Marinate the Chicken in Advance
- Combine Kewpie Sesame Dressing and soy sauce in a mixing bowl as per the recipe.
- Trim and season the chicken breasts, then submerge them fully in the marinade.
- Place the marinated chicken in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Marinating for an extended time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, creating an even richer taste.
2. Cook Ahead and Store
- After marinating, cook the chicken following the original recipe instructions. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate the cooked chicken for up to 3 days.
3. Reheating Tips
To maintain the chicken’s tender texture and the nutty, savory flavor of the Kewpie Sesame Dressing:
- Microwave: Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat at medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat the sliced chicken in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a small splash of water or extra Kewpie Sesame Dressing to keep it moist.
- Oven: Place the chicken in a covered baking dish at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
4. Assemble Ahead for Serving
- Rice or Noodles: If serving with rice or noodles, cook them ahead of time and refrigerate in separate containers. Reheat when ready to serve.
- Salad Base: Prep greens and vegetables, then store them in a separate container lined with a paper towel to keep them crisp.
- Garnishes: Toast sesame seeds, slice green onions, and chop cilantro in advance. Store everything in small, airtight containers for easy assembly.
| Make-Ahead Step | Storage Duration | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Marinate chicken | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container or resealable plastic bag |
| Cooked chicken | Up to 3 days | Airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil |
| Prepared rice/noodles | Up to 3 days | Separate container; refrigerate |
| Salad base & garnishes | 2-3 days | Paper towel-lined container (greens); airtight for garnishes |
By organizing your preparation this way, we ensure the Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken remains fresh, flavorful, and ready to impress with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Its rich umami flavors and succulent texture make it a versatile option that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some inspired serving ideas to elevate your dining experience:
1. Over Steamed Rice or Noodles
Transform the dish into a hearty, satisfying meal by serving the sliced chicken over a bed of steamed white jasmine rice, fluffy brown rice, or even fragrant garlic butter rice. For a twist, pair it with Japanese soba noodles or udon, tossing the noodles with extra Kewpie Sesame Dressing for a light, nutty coating.
2. Salad Bowl-Style
For a fresh and healthy option, build a vibrant salad bowl around the chicken. Start with a base of mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Layer the chicken on top and drizzle with extra Kewpie Sesame Dressing. You can even sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for added crunch and flavor.
3. Lettuce Wraps
Turn the chicken into finger food by serving it as lettuce wraps. Use crisp butter lettuce leaves to hold chicken slices, shredded carrots, thinly sliced green onions, and a dollop of dressing. This approach works perfectly for appetizers or light lunches.
4. Bento Box Additions
For a creative and portable idea, include slices of the chicken in a Japanese-style bento box. Surround it with sushi rice, pickled vegetables, boiled edamame, and a small container of Kewpie dressing for dipping.
5. With Seasonal Vegetables
Pair the chicken with an assortment of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or grilled zucchini. The vegetables’ mild natural sweetness complements the nutty sesame flavor wonderfully.
Suggested Pairings Table
To help you plan your meal, here is a quick reference table of pairing ideas:
| Base/Side | Preparation Idea |
|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | Drizzle with extra Kewpie Sesame Dressing |
| Noodles (Soba/Udon) | Toss noodles in dressing before topping |
| Mixed Green Salad | Add fresh veggies and garnish |
| Butter Lettuce Wrap | Use crisp lettuce for light wraps |
| Roasted Vegetables | Pair with broccoli, asparagus, or squash |
6. Sandwich or Wraps
Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken works beautifully inside sandwiches or wraps. Spread a light layer of the dressing on a toasted baguette or tortilla, layer the chicken with lettuce, cucumbers, and avocados, and roll tight for a portable option.
Use these vibrant serving suggestions to adapt the recipe to various occasions—whether it’s a cozy dinner for two, a meal prep idea for the week, or a show-stopping dish for guests, serving the chicken creatively ensures it will always impress.
Conclusion
Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken is a true game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal option. With its rich, nutty flavor and simple preparation, this dish effortlessly elevates everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re serving it over rice, tossing it into a salad, or getting creative with wraps or bento boxes, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
By keeping a bottle of Kewpie Sesame Dressing on hand and following a few easy steps, we can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of our own kitchens. Let’s make dinnertime more exciting with this delicious and adaptable recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken?
Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish made by marinating and cooking chicken with Kewpie Sesame Dressing and soy sauce. It’s versatile and can be served with rice, noodles, or salads for a complete meal.
How do I make the chicken tender and juicy?
To ensure juicy chicken, marinate it in Kewpie Sesame Dressing and soy sauce for at least 20 minutes, then cook it over medium heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Once cooked, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain its tender texture.
What sides pair well with Kewpie Sesame Dressing Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, salad greens, or seasonal vegetables. It can also be served in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or bento boxes for creative meal ideas.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or tenders instead of chicken breasts. Adjust cooking times to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
What garnishes work best for this dish?
Toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions are perfect garnishes. They add flavor, texture, and a fresh element to the dish.
Is Kewpie Sesame Dressing gluten-free?
Kewpie Sesame Dressing contains ingredients that may not be gluten-free. Check the label or look for gluten-free alternatives if needed and pair with gluten-free soy sauce.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, the chicken tastes great cold too! Slice it thinly and serve it in salads, wraps, or rice bowls for a refreshing meal option.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
The essential tools include a cutting board, sharp knife, mixing bowl, tongs or spatula, non-stick skillet or grill pan, and measuring cups and spoons.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.