Chicken with Sesame Seeds

Chicken with Sesame Seeds is a delicious dish that combines the rich flavour of chicken with the nutty taste of roasted sesame seeds. This dish can be prepared in different ways, but one of the most interesting versions comes from Assam. Known locally as Til Diya Kukura Mangxo, it is a traditional Assamese chicken curry prepared with sesame seeds, mustard oil, onions, ginger, garlic, and a few simple spices.

In Assamese cuisine, sesame seeds are known as Til, while chicken is called Kukura. This combination creates a special curry with a rich, nutty flavour and a wonderful aroma. Unlike many Indian chicken curries that use a large number of spices and thick tomato-based gravies, this Assamese preparation keeps the seasoning simple. It allows the natural taste of chicken and roasted sesame seeds to stand out.

Black sesame seeds are commonly preferred for this preparation because they have a stronger, nuttier flavour. However, white or brown sesame seeds can also be used. The curry is generally prepared with mustard oil and served hot with steamed rice.

If you enjoy traditional Assamese food or want to try something different from ordinary chicken curry, this recipe is worth preparing at home.

What Makes Assamese Chicken with Sesame Seeds Special?

Assamese Chicken with Sesame Seeds is special because of its simple ingredients and unique flavour. Roasted sesame seeds are the main ingredient that gives the curry its nutty taste and slightly thick texture.

The sesame seeds are lightly roasted and ground into a paste or powder before being added to the chicken. This helps the flavour spread throughout the curry.

Mustard oil is another important ingredient. It gives the dish a traditional Assamese aroma, while ginger, garlic, green chillies, and onions provide additional flavour.

Unlike restaurant-style chicken curry, this dish does not require heavy cream, butter, or large quantities of spices. Its beauty lies in the natural combination of chicken and sesame seeds.

Ingredients for Chicken with Sesame Seeds

This recipe serves approximately four people and follows the traditional Assamese style of preparation.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Main Ingredients

• 750 grams chicken, cut into medium-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup black sesame seeds (white or brown can also be used)
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 2–3 green chillies
• 3 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Salt according to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 small piece of cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional)
• 1–2 cups hot water, as required
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Optional Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized potato, cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnishing

How to Prepare Chicken with Sesame Seeds: Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Clean and Marinate the Chicken

First, clean the chicken pieces properly under running water and drain the excess water. Take the chicken in a large mixing bowl.

Add turmeric powder, salt, and a little mustard oil. Mix everything gently so that the chicken pieces are coated evenly.

Allow the chicken to marinate for approximately 15–20 minutes. This helps the seasoning blend with the meat and improves the overall flavour of the curry.

You can use chicken with or without skin according to your preference. Medium-sized pieces are recommended because they cook evenly and absorb the sesame flavour.

Step 2: Roast the Sesame Seeds

Take a dry frying pan and heat it over low to medium heat. Add the black sesame seeds and roast them gently for a few minutes.

Keep stirring continuously so that the seeds do not burn. Sesame seeds release a pleasant nutty aroma when properly roasted.

Once they become fragrant, remove the pan from the heat and immediately transfer the seeds to a separate plate. This prevents them from continuing to cook in the hot pan.

Allow the seeds to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Sesame Paste

Transfer the roasted sesame seeds into a grinder.

Grind them into a fine or slightly coarse powder. Add one or two tablespoons of water if you want to make a smooth paste.

Do not add too much water because the sesame mixture should be thick enough to blend with the chicken gravy.

Keep the prepared sesame paste aside.

The roasted sesame paste is the most important ingredient in this recipe because it gives the curry its distinctive nutty flavour.

Step 4: Fry the Onions and Whole Spices

Heat mustard oil in a thick-bottomed kadai over medium heat.

Add the bay leaf and cinnamon. Allow them to release their aroma.

Next, add the chopped onions and fry until they become soft and light golden brown.

Add the ginger paste and garlic paste. Cook for another two to three minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Add the green chillies and mix everything properly.

Mustard oil gives the dish an authentic Assamese taste, but regular cooking oil can also be used if mustard oil is unavailable.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Now add the marinated chicken pieces to the kadai.

Mix the chicken thoroughly with the onion, ginger, and garlic mixture.

Cook over medium heat for approximately 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken will begin releasing its natural juices.

Allow the pieces to cook until their outer surface changes colour and they are coated with the masala.

Step 6: Add the Sesame Paste

Add the prepared roasted sesame paste to the chicken.

Mix gently so that the paste coats all the chicken pieces evenly.

Add cumin powder, coriander powder, and black pepper powder. Stir well and cook for another five minutes over low to medium heat.

The sesame paste will gradually blend with the chicken juices and create a rich, nutty gravy.

If the mixture becomes too thick or starts sticking to the bottom, add a little hot water.

Step 7: Cook the Chicken Curry

Add one to two cups of hot water according to your preferred gravy consistency.

If you want to include potatoes, add the pieces at this stage.

Cover the kadai with a lid and cook over low to medium heat for approximately 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked and tender.

Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent the sesame paste from sticking to the pan.

The gravy should become slightly thick as the sesame seeds release their natural oils and flavour.

Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) before serving.

Step 8: Add the Final Flavour

Once the chicken is properly cooked, add garam masala if desired.

Taste the curry and adjust the salt and seasoning. If you prefer a slightly tangy taste, add a little lemon juice.

Cook for another two minutes and turn off the heat.

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a small amount of roasted sesame seeds.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Your traditional Assamese Chicken with Sesame Seeds is now ready to serve.

Transfer the curry into a serving bowl and enjoy it hot with steamed rice.

The nutty flavour of roasted sesame seeds, combined with tender chicken and mustard oil, creates a delicious meal that is different from ordinary chicken curry.

You can also serve this dish with chapati, roti, or other Indian flatbreads.

Different Ways to Prepare Chicken with Sesame Seeds

Chicken with Sesame Seeds can be prepared in different styles depending on your taste and cooking preferences.

1. Assamese Til Diya Kukura Mangxo

This is the traditional Assamese version. It uses roasted sesame seeds, mustard oil, chicken, ginger, garlic, green chillies, and a few basic spices. Black sesame seeds are especially recommended for their strong nutty flavour.

2. Crispy Honey Sesame Chicken

This is a popular restaurant-style preparation. Small chicken pieces are coated with flour, cornstarch, and eggs before being fried until crispy.

They are then tossed in a sweet and savoury sauce prepared with honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, and sesame oil. Roasted sesame seeds are sprinkled on top before serving.

This version is different from Assamese sesame chicken curry because it has a sweet, sticky sauce rather than a traditional gravy.

3. Chicken with White Sesame Seeds

White sesame seeds can be used instead of black sesame seeds. They provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavour.

This version is suitable for people who prefer a less intense sesame taste.

4. Chicken with Sesame and Potatoes

Potatoes can be added to the Assamese sesame chicken curry to make it more filling. They absorb the nutty gravy and create a delicious combination with the chicken.

Health Benefits of Chicken with Sesame Seeds

Chicken with Sesame Seeds contains several nutrients because it combines chicken with sesame seeds and other ingredients.

1. Good Source of Protein: Chicken provides protein, which supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and normal body functions.

2. Contains Healthy Fats: Sesame seeds contain unsaturated fats, which can form part of a balanced diet.

3. Provides Calcium: Sesame seeds contain calcium, which supports normal bone and dental health.

4. Contains Important Minerals: Sesame seeds provide minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper.

5. Provides Energy: Chicken and sesame seeds both contribute protein and energy to the meal.

6. Adds Dietary Variety: This recipe offers a different way to enjoy chicken while including seeds and traditional ingredients in everyday cooking.

The nutritional value depends on the quantity of sesame seeds, chicken cuts, cooking oil, and serving size.

Tips for Making Perfect Assamese Sesame Chicken

• Use fresh chicken for the best flavour.
• Black sesame seeds are recommended for a stronger, nuttier taste.
• Roast the sesame seeds over low heat to prevent burning.
• Transfer the roasted seeds to another plate immediately after roasting.
• Grind the sesame seeds after they have cooled.
• Use mustard oil for an authentic Assamese flavour.
• Do not add too much water because the sesame paste naturally thickens the gravy.
• Cook the chicken slowly so that it absorbs the sesame flavour.
• Avoid using too many spices because the nutty flavour should remain the main highlight.
• Serve the curry hot with freshly prepared steamed rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Chicken with Sesame Seeds called in Assamese?

It is commonly known as Til Diya Kukura Mangxo. In Assamese, Til means sesame seeds, Kukura means chicken, and Mangxo means meat.

2. What makes Assamese sesame chicken different from regular chicken curry?

Assamese sesame chicken uses roasted sesame seeds as a main ingredient. They provide a nutty flavour and naturally thicken the gravy. The recipe also uses fewer spices than many regular Indian chicken curries.

3. Which sesame seeds are best for Assamese chicken curry?

Black sesame seeds are highly recommended because they have a stronger, nuttier flavour. However, white and brown sesame seeds can also be used.

4. Do sesame seeds need to be roasted before cooking?

Yes. Lightly roasting the sesame seeds releases their natural aroma and improves the flavour of the curry. Be careful not to burn them because burnt seeds can make the dish bitter.

5. Can I use white sesame seeds instead of black sesame seeds?

Yes. White sesame seeds are a suitable substitute. They provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavour compared with black sesame seeds.