Sesame Chile Chicken with Gingered Watermelon Salsa
Boldly flavorful and delightfully refreshing, this Sesame Chile Chicken with Gingered Watermelon Salsa is the perfect fusion of spicy, sweet, and tangy. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are coated in a savory-sweet marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and chile paste, then seared to caramelized perfection. Paired with a vibrant watermelon salsa infused with fresh ginger, lime juice, and a hint of cilantro, this dish offers a striking contrast of smoky heat and cooling brightness. Ready in under an hour and ideal for summer gatherings, this standout recipe is as easy to prepare as it is impressive. Perfect for those seeking Asian-inspired flavors with a fresh twist, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chile paste (such as sambal oelek)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds
- 2 cups watermelon (diced into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, chile paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame seeds to create the marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and ensure they're evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
While the chicken marinates, prepare the gingered watermelon salsa. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced watermelon, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss to combine, then set aside in the refrigerator to chill.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and cook the chicken in the skillet or grill pan for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is caramelized and golden brown.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Serve the sesame chile chicken alongside the chilled gingered watermelon salsa. Garnish with additional cilantro or sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
345 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 19.8 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.3 g | 17% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 84 mg | 28% | |
| Sodium | 800 mg | 35% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22.0 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.0 g | ||
| Protein | 21.5 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 41 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 460 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
