There’s nothing quite like the aroma of sizzling chicken mingling with the toasty scent of sesame oil to lift my spirits after a long day. As someone who loves homemade meals but also strives to eat healthily, I often find myself searching for quick yet satisfying dinners. This Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delightful answer—combining succulent chicken pieces with a rich, savory sauce that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility; in just 25 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful, gluten-free, low-carb meal that leaves your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or simply looking for a fulfilling dinner that keeps you away from takeout, this dish is sure to please. Join me as I guide you through this 30-minute culinary adventure that brings comfort food into alignment with your health goals!
Why is Healthy Sesame Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Core: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Nourishing Ingredients: Low-carb and gluten-free, making it a wholesome choice.
Flavorful Balance: The rich sesame sauce offers deep umami notes that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste even better, making it a great option for meal prep. Consider pairing it with a light salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for both family dinners and impressing guests—everyone will love it!
Healthy Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breast – This lean meat serves as the primary protein source; opt for thighs for added moisture.
• Avocado Oil – A healthy fat ideal for sautéing; can be swapped with olive or coconut oil for variety.
For the Sauce
• Coconut Aminos – Adds a rich umami flavor; a perfect gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
• Honey – Acts as a natural sweetener; consider maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Imparts essential sesame flavor; avoid substitutes to maintain authenticity.
• Fresh Ginger – Offers warmth; if unavailable, ground ginger can do the trick.
• Garlic – Enhances depth with fresh minced cloves.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity; optional if you prefer a mellow flavor.
• Black Pepper – Elevates overall taste; adjust according to your preference.
• Lime Zest and Juice – Provides brightness; can be omitted for less citrusy notes.
For the Garnish & Sides
• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle for added texture and a visual appeal in your Healthy Sesame Chicken.
• Green Beans – A nutritious vegetable side; feel free to replace with your favorite veggies.
• Cooked Rice – A common base for serving, but cauliflower rice offers a fantastic low-carb alternative.
How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. This size allows for even cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
- Cook the Sides: While preparing the chicken, cook the rice and green beans according to the package directions. Timing is key, so aim for everything to be ready simultaneously.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers, ready for sautéing.
- Sauté the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the hot oil and sauté for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Mix the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Remove Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step helps prevent overcooking.
- Cook the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the hot pan and cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it bubbles and thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it well in the sauce until all pieces are evenly flavored.
- Serve: Plate the Healthy Sesame Chicken over your cooked rice and green beans, garnishing with sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
Optional: For a delightful twist, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Complement your meal with delicious sides and beverages that enhance the flavors and textures of this dish.
- Coconut Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative remains fluffy and absorbs the rich sesame sauce perfectly, offering a delightful base for your chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Its vibrant green color and mild flavor balance the savory richness of the chicken while adding a nutritious crunch.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil, this salad adds a crisp and tangy contrast.
- Garlic Sautéed Spinach: Lightly cooked with garlic, the spinach provides an earthy touch that complements the umami in the sesame chicken beautifully.
- Sesame Ginger Dressing: Drizzle this on steamed veggies or a fresh salad to echo the flavors of the dish, enhancing overall dining experience.
- Chilled Green Tea: This soothing beverage is perfect for cleansing the palate between bites, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich and flavorful main dish.
- Mango Sorbet: As a light dessert, its natural sweetness and fruity freshness cleanse the palate while providing a satisfying finish to your meal.
- Pickled Carrots: These add a tangy, crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken, making them a perfect side.
Storage Tips for Healthy Sesame Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will keep your Healthy Sesame Chicken fresh and delicious all week!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying it again.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Add a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
Serving Suggestions: Pair reheated Healthy Sesame Chicken with fresh veggies or a light salad for a quick and complete meal!
Expert Tips for Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Perfect Timing: Watch cooking times closely; overcooking the chicken can lead to a dry texture, so aim for golden and juicy pieces.
- Sauce Thickness: Ensure the sauce bubbles before adding the chicken to get that desired thickness; this step enhances the flavor without burning.
- Garnish Brilliance: For extra crunch and flavor, use freshly toasted sesame seeds as a garnish; this adds an appealing texture to your Healthy Sesame Chicken.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to switch up the veggies! Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers work beautifully in this dish.
- Storage Made Simple: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheating in a pan helps maintain the dish’s delicious flavors.
Healthy Sesame Chicken Variations
Embrace your creativity with these delightful variations and substitutions for the perfect Healthy Sesame Chicken!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, offering a fantastic plant-based alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully. Enjoy the savory goodness that satisfies all dietary preferences!
- Nut-Free: Omit sesame seeds or use sunflower seeds as a garnish to keep the dish nut-free but just as delicious. This ensures everyone at the table can enjoy without worry.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. Elevate the flavor profile with just a simple adjustment!
- Extra Veggies: Mix in some bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for added nutrients and crunch, making your meal even more colorful and satisfying. Each bite becomes an exciting adventure!
- Cauliflower Rice: Replace traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist that retains the freshness while cutting carbs significantly. Perfect for a lighter meal option!
- Asian Twist: Incorporate bok choy or baby corn to infuse an authentic Asian flair into your dish. These additions enhance the texture and taste, providing a delightful experience!
- Coconut Rice: Cook the rice with a splash of coconut milk to give it a subtle sweetness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. It’s comfort food elevated!
- Citrus Blast: Squeeze fresh orange juice into the sauce for a bright, zesty twist that brings a refreshing element without overpowering the classic flavors. Your taste buds will thank you!
Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
What chicken should I use for Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is the star of this dish, but I often recommend using chicken thighs or tenders for added moisture. They cook beautifully and make the dish even more tender.
How should I store leftovers of Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal throughout the week without any loss of flavor!
Can I freeze Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, I recommend freezing the cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
What if the sesame sauce is too thick?
If you find that the sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or low-sodium chicken broth to loosen it up and stir until you reach your desired consistency. This is a common occurrence, especially if you’ve cooked it down a bit too long.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Very! If you’re allergic to soy, you’ll love that coconut aminos serve as a great gluten-free alternative in this recipe. Always check labels if you’re concerned about hidden ingredients, especially in store-bought versions of oils and sweeteners.
Can I add more vegetables to Healthy Sesame Chicken?
The more the merrier! This dish is incredibly flexible, so feel free to toss in extra veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to amp up the nutrition and color. Just cook them briefly so they maintain some crunch and vibrancy.
These answers cover common concerns and tips to make your cooking experience even smoother—enjoy your culinary journey with Healthy Sesame Chicken!
Deliciously Healthy Sesame Chicken Ready in 25 Minutes!
Equipment
- Large pan
- Whisk
- cutting board
- knife
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Breast Cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Can be swapped with olive or coconut oil
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup Coconut Aminos Gluten-free soy sauce alternative
- 2 tablespoons Honey Consider maple syrup for a vegan option
- 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil Avoid substitutes to maintain authenticity
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Can substitute with ground ginger if unavailable
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced fresh cloves for depth
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Optional if you prefer a mellow flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to your preference
- 1 lime Lime Zest and Juice Can be omitted for less citrusy notes
For the Garnish & Sides
- 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds For garnish
- 2 cups Green Beans Feel free to replace with your favorite veggies
- 2 cups Cooked Rice Cauliflower rice offers a low-carb alternative
Instructions
How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Start by cutting the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Cook the rice and green beans according to the package directions, aiming for everything to be ready simultaneously.
- Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers.
- Add the chicken cubes to the hot oil and sauté for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Whisk together the coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to prevent overcooking.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the hot pan and cook for about 3-5 minutes until it bubbles and thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat well in the sauce.
- Plate the Healthy Sesame Chicken over your cooked rice and green beans, garnishing with sesame seeds.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro before serving for extra flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
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