Name: Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos.
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts (cut into cubes); 1 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; 2 tablespoons orange zest; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1-3 tablespoons chili paste ((e.g., Gochujang paste)); 2 teaspoons creamy peanut butter; 2-4 cloves garlic (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds; 12 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)

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If you’re craving a delightful fusion of flavors that’s sure to please both your taste buds and your guests, look no further than these Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos. Imagine juicy, crispy chicken tossed in a zesty sesame ginger sauce, all wrapped in a crunchy taco shell. This dish combines the best of Asian and Mexican cuisines, making it the perfect choice for your next taco night. Let’s dive into the delicious world of these tacos!

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of these Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is marinated to perfection, giving it a light, crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The zesty and slightly sweet sauce, combined with fresh toppings, makes every bite a celebration. Plus, the use of hard-shell tacos adds that satisfying crunch we all love. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll achieve taco perfection every time.

What You’ll Need

1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
1 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 + 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 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

What’s in the Gear List

Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken.
Frying pan or wok: To achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Tongs: To flip the chicken without losing its crispy coating.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Serving platter: To beautifully present your tacos.

Directions: Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken with the egg white, tamari or soy sauce, and orange zest. Mix well to ensure all the chicken is evenly coated. Allow this to marinate for at least 30 minutes; this step is crucial for flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated. This will create that crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Drizzle sesame or olive oil into a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari or soy sauce, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, chili paste, creamy peanut butter, chopped garlic, and fresh grated ginger. Adjust the chili paste according to your heat preference. Pour this sauce into the same pan and bring it to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the sauce is simmering, add the crispy chicken back into the pan. Toss to coat the chicken in the sauce thoroughly. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Prepare the Tacos

While the chicken is absorbing the flavors of the sauce, prepare your hard shell tacos. For an extra touch, you can warm them in the oven for a few minutes to enhance their crunchiness.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Fill each taco shell with a generous amount of the sesame ginger chicken. Top with nori sheets, shredded lettuce, kimchi, cilantro, green onion, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Drizzle with yum yum sauce for that irresistible finishing touch.

Year-Round Variations

Swap out chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option that still packs a flavorful punch.
Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the chicken for extra crunch and nutrition.
For a lighter option, serve the chicken on lettuce wraps instead of taco shells.
Experiment with different sauces, such as a spicy sriracha mayo or a sweet chili sauce, to switch up the flavors.

Pro Perspective

As a food lover, I can assure you that these Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos will become a staple in your home. The combination of the crispy chicken and the sweet and savory sauce is simply addictive. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to easily customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos will impress your family and friends.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you’re planning ahead, you can marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavors even more. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a pan or microwave before serving. If you want to keep the taco shells crispy, store them separately. Fresh toppings should be prepared just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add even more flavor to your tacos. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

What if I can’t find tamari or soy sauce?

If tamari or soy sauce is unavailable, you can use coconut aminos as a great alternative, which provides a similar umami flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free tamari and ensure that your taco shells are also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make these tacos spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili paste or include sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes as toppings. You can also serve with a spicy salsa on the side.

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In Closing

Indulging in these Crispy Sesame Ginger Chicken Tacos is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The delightful crunch of the taco shells combined with the flavorful chicken and fresh toppings makes each bite truly satisfying. Don’t be surprised if these tacos become a go-to recipe in your household. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy a fabulous taco night that’s bursting with flavor!