Healthy Sesame Chicken
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a light, sticky sesame sauce with just the right hint of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious twist on a classic favorite. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a light, sticky sesame sauce with just the right hint of sweetness and nuttiness. It’s packed with flavor but made with wholesome ingredients to keep it on the healthier side.
I love making this recipe when I want something satisfying but without feeling weighed down. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch, and the sauce comes together so easily with simple pantry staples. It’s one of those meals that feels special but actually doesn’t take much time to prepare, which is a win in my book!
My favorite way to enjoy Healthy Sesame Chicken is served over steamed rice or alongside some fresh veggies. It’s great for a cozy weeknight dinner or even meal prep because it tastes just as good the next day. I find that it’s always a crowd-pleaser, and I never get tired of that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using boneless, skinless chicken breast keeps this dish lean and healthy. You can swap with chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat, but cooking time may vary.
Cornstarch: This helps give the chicken a light, crispy coating. If you need a gluten-free option, cornstarch works well. You can also try arrowroot powder as a substitute.
Soy Sauce or Tamari: Tamari is great if you want a gluten-free soy sauce. Low-sodium versions help keep the dish lighter in salt, which I like for better health balance.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add natural sweetness. I usually use honey, but pure maple syrup works well too, especially for a vegan twist.
Sesame Oil: Just a teaspoon adds a distinct nutty flavor. Don’t substitute it with regular cooking oil because its flavor is unique and important here.
How Can I Get the Chicken Crispy and Coated Just Right?
Getting that light crisp on the chicken comes down to a few simple steps:
- Pat the chicken dry before coating to help the cornstarch stick better and avoid steaming.
- Use medium-high heat so the chicken browns nicely without burning.
- Cook chicken in a single layer without crowding the pan. This keeps it crisp and cooks evenly.
- Turn chicken pieces carefully, cooking about 4-5 minutes per side for golden color and full cooking.
These tips give you juicy inside and crispy outside chicken pieces perfect for coating in the sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large non-stick skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly without sticking and easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowls – handy for coating chicken in cornstarch and whisking together the sauce ingredients.
- Whisk – helps blend the sauce smoothly and quickly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate ingredient amounts to keep flavors balanced.
- Spatula or tongs – makes turning chicken pieces easy without breaking them apart.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for firm tofu to make a vegetarian version that soaks up the sauce well.
- Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Stir in crushed peanuts or cashews at the end for a salty, nutty texture.
- For more heat, increase chili flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha when serving.
Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
- 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for slight heat)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. It includes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels so they’re not too wet. Put the cornstarch in a bowl, then toss the chicken pieces in it until they’re all lightly coated. This helps create a nice, crisp outside when cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in one layer so they cook evenly. Let them cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through — about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, water, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and if you like it a little spicy, add chili flakes or sriracha.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Pour the sauce into the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, keeping the heat on medium. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens just a little.
5. Add Chicken to Sauce:
Put the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so each piece is well coated. Cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors blend nicely.
6. Serve:
Place the cooked rice into bowls and top it with the sesame chicken. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a tasty finish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your healthy sesame chicken hot. Grab some chopsticks or a fork and enjoy a delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the chicken dry well to ensure the cornstarch sticks properly and to avoid excess moisture when frying.
Can I Make This Sesame Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce as directed, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute the Sweetener in the Sauce?
Yes, you can use honey or pure maple syrup depending on your preference or dietary needs. Both provide natural sweetness and work well with the flavors in this recipe.
