Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken?
It is a baked chicken dish that uses a coating of crushed corn flakes and sesame seeds with a honey and yogurt binder for a healthy, crispy finish.
How many WW points is this recipe?
Each serving of this Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken is approximately 6 WW points.
What is the baking temperature for this chicken?
The chicken should be baked in an oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How long does it take to bake the chicken?
The chicken takes approximately 45 minutes to bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
What type of coating is used on the chicken?
The coating is a blend of 1 1/4 cups of crushed corn flake crumbs, 1/4 cup of sesame seeds, and various spices.
Is this chicken fried or baked?
This is a healthier, baked version of sesame chicken, making it lower in fat than traditional fried recipes.
What spices are used in the crumb mixture?
The mixture includes paprika, salt, ground ginger, and ground red pepper for a well-rounded flavor.
How do I prepare the chicken for coating?
Dip each chicken breast into a mixture of plain nonfat yogurt and honey before tossing it in the crumb bag.
Why is yogurt used in this recipe?
Plain nonfat yogurt is used to help the crumb mixture adhere to the chicken while keeping the meat moist without adding much fat.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, plain nonfat Greek yogurt can be used as a direct substitute for regular plain nonfat yogurt.
Do I need to toast the sesame seeds beforehand?
No, the recipe uses untoasted sesame seeds as they will toast naturally during the 45-minute baking process.
What kind of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 8 pieces of trimmed, boneless skinless chicken breasts.
Can I use chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with thighs, though you should adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the purpose of the melted margarine?
Drizzling melted margarine over the chicken pieces before baking helps enhance the crispiness of the corn flake crust.
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free corn flake crumbs.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a very mild heat from the 1/8 teaspoon of ground red pepper, but it is generally considered family-friendly.
What type of pan should I use for baking?
A 15x10-inch jelly roll pan or a standard cookie sheet sprayed with cooking spray is recommended.
How should I arrange the chicken on the pan?
Space the chicken pieces out so they do not touch, which allows air to circulate and ensures even browning.
Can I substitute honey with something else?
You can use agave nectar or maple syrup, but it will change the specific flavor profile of the 'honey' sesame chicken.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
How can I reheat the chicken to keep it crispy?
Reheating in an air fryer or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit is better for maintaining crispiness than using a microwave.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, because it is baked and high in protein, it serves as an excellent main dish for weekly meal planning.
Can I use pre-crushed corn flakes?
Yes, you can buy corn flake crumbs pre-crushed or crush whole corn flakes yourself in a food processor or bag.
What side dishes go well with this chicken?
It pairs well with steamed broccoli, snap peas, brown rice, or a light cucumber salad.
Can I freeze the chicken after it is cooked?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months, though the coating may lose some crunch after thawing.
Do I need to cover the chicken with foil while it bakes?
No, the chicken should remain uncovered so the dry heat can crisp the outer coating.
What happens if I don't have a zip-loc bag?
You can use a shallow bowl to dredge the chicken in the crumb mixture, though the bag method provides more even coverage.
How many people does this recipe serve?
The recipe uses 8 chicken breasts, typically serving 4 to 8 people depending on the size of the portions.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, melted butter can be used in place of margarine, though it may slightly affect the total fat and point count.