Name: Healthy Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil; 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce); 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger); 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Zest and juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish; 1 cup cooked white rice (or cauliflower rice); 2 cups cooked green beans (or broccoli)

Looking for a quick, healthy dinner that hits all the right notes? This Healthy Sesame Chicken is packed with protein, low in carbs, gluten-free, and loaded with flavor—without the takeout guilt. Juicy chicken cubes are coated in a rich sesame sauce and served over rice and green beans, making it a family favorite that’s ready in just 35 minutes. This dish is not only appealing to the taste buds but also ensures that you enjoy every bite while keeping your meal wholesome and satisfying.

The allure of homemade Healthy Sesame Chicken lies in its quick preparation and ease of cooking. With a set of simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can recreate this delightful dish at home, avoiding the extra calories and unhealthy additives often found in takeout versions. Moreover, this recipe offers an array of flavors that will keep your taste buds tingling with excitement. From the nutty aroma of sesame oil to the subtle sweetness of honey, every ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a meal that everyone in your family will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Sesame Chicken

Quick and Easy: Ready from start to finish in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Better for You: This version skips the deep-frying while using wholesome, nutritious ingredients.
Versatile: Perfectly pairs with rice, cauliflower rice, or your choice of fresh veggies.
Family-Friendly: The mild yet flavorful sauce is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients, including the chicken, seasonings, and veggies. This will save you time and energy, allowing you to focus on cooking. You will need a sharp knife for cutting the chicken into cubes and a cutting board for ease.

Having a large skillet or frying pan is crucial for searing the chicken and making the sauce. A whisk is also needed to mix the sauce efficiently, and measuring cups and spoons will ensure you get the quantities just right. Lastly, use serving plates or bowls for presenting your dish once it’s ready. Getting everything set up before you start will make the process not only smoother but also more enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
1/4 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Zest and juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
1 cup cooked white rice (or cauliflower rice)
2 cups cooked green beans (or broccoli)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the boneless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, ensuring consistent sizes for even cooking. Simultaneously, cook your choice of rice (white or cauliflower rice) and steam or boil the green beans until tender, following package directions if you’re using frozen veggies. Keeping everything prepped beforehand will help expedite the cooking process and allow flavors to meld as you go.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the cubed chicken in a single layer. Sauté the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes, tossing occasionally until all sides are browned and the chicken is cooked through. This method enhances the flavor of the chicken, giving it texture and richness. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This step is critical to achieve juicy chicken pieces without overcooking them.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet (there’s no need to clean it), combine the coconut aminos (or soy sauce), honey (or maple syrup), toasted sesame oil, ground or fresh ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, lime zest, lime juice, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until fully combined and smooth. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly until it begins to bubble and thicken slightly. The goal is to create a flavorful sauce that complements the chicken beautifully and ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, carefully return the sautéed chicken to the pan. Toss everything together, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the delectable flavors from the sauce while heating thoroughly.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

To serve, plate the flavorful chicken over a bed of cooked rice and alongside your green beans (or broccoli). Garnish it all with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and texture. This Healthy Sesame Chicken dish is now ready to be enjoyed. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering at the table!

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein twist.
Vegetables: Experiment with bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy for added nutrition and crunch.
Spices: Incorporate chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha for a spicy kick or add sesame oil for a nuttier depth.

Cooking Notes

This dish is customizable to fit dietary restrictions — substitute for gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
For the best taste, ensure your ingredients are fresh, particularly the ginger and garlic.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a side salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
Serve with a chilled cucumber salad to balance out the meal’s warmth.

Tips

Prep ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process for busy weeknights.
Adjust sweetness by modifying the honey or maple syrup amount according to your taste preferences.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
Protein: 30 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cutting and cooking for even seasoning.

What can I substitute for coconut aminos?

If you don’t have coconut aminos, low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha into the sauce for that extra kick.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! This Healthy Sesame Chicken is excellent for meal prepping; just store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish that is not only quick to prepare but also remarkably nutritious. With its burst of flavor from the sesame sauce and its versatility in pairing with various sides, this meal promises to become a staple in your home. It embodies everything you love about takeout—without the guilt! We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with the variations, and share your experiences. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process, so gather your ingredients, and make this delicious dish tonight!