Introduction
Sesame roast chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich array of flavors. Jamie Oliver’s recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a standout choice for family dinners or gatherings. The sesame seeds add a lovely crunch, while the marinade infuses the chicken with deep, appetizing notes. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma, setting the stage for a wonderful meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Whole chicken – 1.5 kg
Sesame oil – 3 tablespoons
Soy sauce – 4 tablespoons
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Fresh ginger – 1 thumb-sized piece, grated
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Sesame seeds – 4 tablespoons
Fresh coriander – a handful, to serve
Lime – 1, cut into wedges
Prep Time
The prep time for this sesame roast chicken is approximately 15 minutes. This quick preparation makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal rather than preparing it.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, ensuring a delightful and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 220°C/450°F. This high temperature will help achieve a crispy skin on the chicken.
Prepare the Chicken
Choose a whole chicken, weighing about 1.5 kg. Remove any giblets from the cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and some sea salt and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring you also season inside the cavity.
Add Garlic and Ginger
Crush 3 cloves of garlic and grate a thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger. Add them to the cavity of the chicken for added flavor.
Roast the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken in a roasting tray. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the juices run clear when pierced at the thigh.
Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.
Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is resting, pour the juices from the roasting tray into a saucepan. Heat gently and simmer to reduce slightly, creating a rich sauce.
Serve the Chicken
Carve the rested chicken and serve it with the reduced sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Notes
Choosing the Right Chicken
Opt for free-range or organic chickens if available, as they tend to have better flavor and texture.
Make it Spicy
For a spicier kick, include sliced fresh chilies or a pinch of chili flakes in the marinade.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Leftover Chicken
Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator and is perfect for sandwiches or salads the next day.
Marinating Option
For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before roasting.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting is a cooking method that involves cooking food evenly in an oven. In this recipe, the chicken is roasted at a high temperature to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.
Marinating
Marinating is the process of soaking food in a seasoned liquid before cooking. Here, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of sesame oil and other seasonings to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
Glazing
Glazing involves applying a layer of sauce or liquid to food during cooking to add flavor and create a shiny finish. The chicken is glazed with the marinade towards the end of the roasting process to intensify its flavor.
Resting
Resting is crucial after cooking, allowing the juices to redistribute within the meat. After roasting, the chicken should rest before carving to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful.
FAQ
What type of chicken is best for roasting?
For roasting, a whole chicken is ideal as it cooks evenly. Choose a free-range or organic chicken for the best flavor.
Can I use different oils for marinating?
Yes, you can substitute sesame oil with other oils, though it may alter the final flavor. Olive oil or peanut oil are good alternatives.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes to a few hours is recommended to enhance the flavor. Overnight marination provides even better results.
What is the best way to check if the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 75°C (165°F) at the thickest part.
Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces. Adjust the cooking time as smaller pieces will cook faster than a whole chicken.
Conclusion
The Sesame Roast Chicken is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with the rich, nutty flavors of sesame. This recipe not only highlights the wonderful taste of roasted chicken but also offers a simple yet impressive way to elevate your dining experience. With easily accessible ingredients and straightforward methods, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sesame Noodle Stir-Fry
Combine cooked noodles with a mix of vegetables and sesame oil for a quick and tasty meal that complements your roast chicken perfectly.
Asian Slaw
Create a refreshing slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame vinaigrette to serve as a crunchy side dish alongside the roasted chicken.
Garlic Roast Potatoes
Roast some potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs to add a hearty and comforting side, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Steamed Broccoli with Sesame Seeds
Lightly steamed broccoli tossed with sesame seeds creates a nutritious and visually appealing side that pairs well with the chicken.
Coconut Rice
Serve the sesame roast chicken with fragrant coconut rice for a tropical twist that balances the savory flavors of the dish.
Honey Soy Glazed Carrots
Glaze baby carrots in a mixture of honey and soy sauce and roast them until tender for a sweet and savory side dish that complements the chicken beautifully.