| Prep Time ⇒ | 20 mins |
| Protein ⇒ | 12g |
| Fat ⇒ | 11g |
| Carbs ⇒ | 4g |
Savory Sesame Chicken Dip
Indulge in this delightful sesame chicken dip, featuring marinated chicken nestled on a smooth bed of garlic-infused cream cheese, garnished with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro, all drizzled with a spicy-sweet chile sauce. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests! Serve it alongside rice crackers or any crackers of your choice for a satisfying appetizer.
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 teaspoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
- 4 cups cooked diced chicken breast
- 3 (8-ounce) packages reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup salted peanuts, chopped
- 8 medium green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sweet chile sauce
Directions :
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Add the cooked chicken and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to marinate.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, ¼ cup of cilantro, the remaining garlic, and salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 3: Spread the cream cheese mixture onto a large serving platter. Top it with the marinated chicken.
Step 4: Sprinkle the dish with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and the remaining cilantro. Drizzle the sweet chile sauce over the top.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Recipe Facts :
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients! For instance, cilantro is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing antioxidants. Curious to learn more? Check out this Wikipedia article.
For more delightful recipes and tips, visit my blog at hearty-recipes.com. Enjoy your savory sesame chicken dip!
The nutritional benefits of ingredients :
The Power of Chicken: A Lean Protein Source
Chicken is a star ingredient in many recipes, and for good reason. It’s an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. A typical serving of chicken provides not only protein but also vital vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins (particularly niacin and B6) that play crucial roles in energy metabolism. Including chicken in your diet can help support weight management by promoting satiety, meaning you feel fuller for longer. For more details on chicken’s nutritional profile, check out this link.
Sesame Seeds: Tiny But Mighty
Sesame seeds are the unsung heroes in many dishes, including your dip. These tiny seeds pack a nutritional punch with healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. They’re also a fantastic source of calcium, magnesium, and iron, contributing to bone health and energy production. Additionally, sesame seeds contain lignans, which may have antioxidant properties. Curious to learn more about the benefits of sesame seeds? Visit this link.
The Creaminess of Greek Yogurt: A Healthier Alternative
If your recipe includes Greek yogurt, you’re in for a treat! Greek yogurt is not only creamy and delicious, but it’s also rich in protein, making it a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without adding too many calories. It’s also packed with probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health, aiding in digestion and supporting the immune system. Greek yogurt contains less sugar than regular yogurt, making it a smart choice for those watching their sugar intake. To explore more about Greek yogurt’s health benefits, check out this link.
Fresh Herbs: Nature’s Flavor Boosters
Herbs like cilantro or green onions often complement dishes like your Sesame Chicken Dip beautifully. These fresh ingredients not only enhance flavor without added calories but also provide various vitamins and antioxidants. Cilantro, for example, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help in detoxifying the body. Green onions are rich in vitamin K, essential for bone health and proper blood clotting. To discover more about the benefits of herbs, explore this link.
Soy Sauce: A Savory Kick
Soy sauce adds a distinctive umami flavor to dishes and can offer some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. Traditional soy sauce contains isoflavones, which have been studied for their potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. However, it’s important to choose low-sodium options to manage salt intake effectively. To learn more about soy sauce and its health implications, click here.
Garlic: A Flavorful Health Ally
Garlic is another ingredient that not only boosts the flavor of your dip but also provides numerous health benefits. Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, garlic has been linked to improved heart health due to its ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, it contains compounds that may have antibacterial and antiviral effects. For a deeper dive into garlic’s nutritional profile, check out this link.
The Role of Nuts: A Crunchy Nutritional Booster
If your dip incorporates any nuts, such as peanuts or cashews, you’re adding an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Nuts are known for their heart-healthy properties and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium. However, portion control is key, as nuts are calorie-dense. To discover more about the health benefits of nuts, visit this link.
Dive into Deliciousness: More Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed making your Sesame Chicken Dip, you’ll love exploring more recipes that celebrate hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. Head over to hearty-recipes.com for a plethora of delicious ideas that will keep your meals exciting and nutritious!