Caribbean Sesame Chicken

Ingredients

In this Caribbean adaptation of Sesame Chicken, we incorporate traditional Caribbean spices such as allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers to infuse the dish with a distinct island flavor. Additionally, fresh pineapple is added to provide a tropical twist and enhance the overall sweetness and tanginess of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Sesame Chicken, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste) 1/4 teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the soy sauce and Caribbean jerk seasoning. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, allspice, dried thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
5. 5.
   Fry the chicken in the hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. 6.
   In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
7. 7.
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the sesame seeds. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until the chicken is coated in the sesame seeds.
8. 8.
   Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken breasts — For the best texture, make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces of similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Scotch bonnet pepper — Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper according to your spice preference. Be cautious as it is a very hot pepper, so start with a small amount and add more if desired.
• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished dish.
• If you prefer a spicier version, you can add additional scotch bonnet pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Serve the Caribbean Sesame Chicken with steamed rice or coconut rice for a complete meal.
• If you don't have Caribbean jerk seasoning, you can make your own by combining spices like allspice, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as snow peas or carrots for added color and texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Sesame Chicken hot, garnished with sliced green onions. It pairs well with steamed rice or coconut rice. For a complete Caribbean experience, serve with a side of plantains or fried sweet plantains.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the stir-fried chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks on a platter. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with a side of steamed rice or coconut rice.