A delightful twist on a classic sesame chicken recipe, featuring a tangy glaze and vibrant mandarin oranges.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the right texture for the chicken.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides.
Browning the chicken adds a rich flavor and seals in the juices.
Transfer the browned chicken to a 13x9-inch baking dish.
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer for even cooking.
In a saucepan, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Heat until the mixture thickens.
Stir constantly to prevent the glaze from sticking or burning.
Pour the glaze evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
Use a spatula to spread the glaze evenly for consistent flavor.
Bake the chicken uncovered for 50 minutes.
Check the chicken's doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Add the mandarin oranges and water chestnuts to the baking dish and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Adding the toppings towards the end preserves their texture and flavor.
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the chicken before serving.
Toasting the sesame seeds beforehand enhances their nutty aroma and taste.
