Tahini Chicken Recipe

Background and History

Tahini Chicken is a delightful fusion dish that brings together Middle Eastern flavors with a contemporary twist. Tahini, a creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds, is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, often used in dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush. This recipe pairs the rich, nutty flavor of tahini with tender chicken, creating a unique and delicious meal. The combination of garlic, lemon, and spices enhances the dish, making it both flavorful and nutritious. This dish has gained popularity in modern cuisine due to its simplicity and the nutritional benefits of tahini, which is rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.

Recipe Guide

Serves

• 4 people

Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time

• 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.

Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
• Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the Chicken

• Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through.

Add the Sauce

• Pour the tahini sauce over the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure they are well coated.

Bake the Chicken

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

• Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

Notes

• Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple salad to complete the meal.
• For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the tahini sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.

Allergy Warning

• Contains sesame (tahini).
• Ensure all ingredients are free from cross-contamination if you have specific allergies.

Enjoy your Tahini Chicken, a delicious and healthy dish that brings a taste of the Middle East to your table. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

What is the best way to use tahini?

Tahini is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, such as in hummus, salad dressings, sauces, dips, and even in desserts like cookies and brownies for a nutty flavor.

Is tahini an Indian spice?

No, tahini is not an Indian spice; it is a Middle Eastern paste made from ground sesame seeds, commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

Is tahini delicious?

Yes, tahini is delicious with its rich, nutty flavor that adds depth and creaminess to both savory and sweet dishes.

Can you use tahini on its own?

Yes, you can use tahini on its own as a spread, or drizzle it over vegetables, meats, or toast. However, it is often mixed with other ingredients to enhance its flavor.

Is tahini healthy?

Yes, tahini is healthy as it is rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Why is tahini so expensive?

Tahini can be expensive because sesame seeds, the primary ingredient, are often imported and require significant processing to turn into a smooth paste, increasing production costs.

What does tahini taste like?

Tahini has a rich, nutty, slightly bitter flavor with a creamy texture, similar to a mild, unsweetened peanut butter.

Does tahini go bad?

Yes, tahini can go bad. It should be stored in a cool, dark place and used within a few months of opening. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life.

Why do people use tahini?

People use tahini for its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture, which enhances a variety of dishes, and for its nutritional benefits, adding healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients to meals.

Is tahini roasted or raw?

Tahini can be made from either raw or roasted sesame seeds, with roasted tahini having a deeper, nuttier flavor compared to raw tahini, which has a milder taste.