Healthy sesame chicken dish with vegetables and sauce

Healthy Sesame Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious dish that offers a flavorful blend of Asian-inspired tastes while keeping things light and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sesame chicken, which is often deep-fried and high in calories. By using lean chicken breast and simple, wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that is both tasty and good for you.

How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Green onions, chopped for garnish

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, mix the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
  2. Add the sliced chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  3. Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

How to Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken

For the best experience, serve Healthy Sesame Chicken hot, straight from the pan. You can pair it with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Adding a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas can also enhance the dish’s nutrition and add color to your plate.

How to Store Healthy Sesame Chicken

Leftover Healthy Sesame Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pan over low heat until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook the chicken as it may become tough.

Tips to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken

  • Marinating the chicken longer will enhance the flavor, so feel free to leave it for a couple of hours if you have the time.
  • Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best taste.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup according to your preference.
  • If you like a little crunch, add some chopped nuts like cashews or almonds as a topping.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe for a vegetarian option by substituting chicken with tofu or tempeh. Simply follow the same marinating and cooking process for a tasty plant-based dish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option. Just be mindful that they may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this dish can be made gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the stir-fry for added nutrition and flavor.