Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious, healthy dinner option that brings the flavors of takeout right to your kitchen! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it is packed with protein, low in carbs, and gluten-free. With its rich taste and simple preparation, Healthy Sesame Chicken stands out as a go-to meal for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those evenings when time is tight.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of coconut aminos, honey, and sesame oil creates a rich and delicious sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Versatile Dish: Serve this chicken with rice or your favorite vegetables to create a balanced meal that suits any palate.
- Health-Conscious Choice: It’s low in carbs and high in protein, perfect for those following a healthier lifestyle.
- Gluten-Free Option: Made with coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, this dish caters to gluten-sensitive individuals without compromising taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: This helps prevent the chicken from sticking while ensuring even cooking.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly to achieve the best flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (zest of one lime)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (juice of one lime)
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
To Serve
- 2 cups cooked green beans
- 1 cup cooked white rice
How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by prepping your chicken. Cut it into small cubes. Cook white rice and green beans according to package directions to save time.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a non-stick skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute. Add the cubed chicken to the pan and sauté until browned on all sides, which should take approximately 10-12 minutes.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce
While your chicken cooks, whisk together all sauce ingredients in a bowl: coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, black pepper, lime zest, and lime juice.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Pour in your prepared sauce mixture into the hot pan (no need to clean it first!). Cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until it starts bubbling. Stir consistently as it thickens. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Step 5: Coat Chicken in Sauce
Return the cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir well to coat each piece evenly in that delicious sauce.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Serve your Healthy Sesame Chicken over cooked white rice and alongside green beans for a balanced meal that everyone will love!
How to Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty dinner, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a crunchy texture and pairs well with the flavors of the chicken.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and roast them until crispy for an earthy complement.
- Sliced Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers provide a sweet crunch and vibrant colors to your plate.
Over Quinoa
- Quinoa Bowl: Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken over cooked quinoa for a nutritious, gluten-free alternative to rice, packed with protein.
As Lettuce Wraps
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps. This is a fun and low-carb way to enjoy your chicken while adding freshness.
With Additional Sauces
- Extra Sauce on the Side: Offer extra coconut aminos or a spicy sauce for those who like more flavor. This enhances the overall taste experience.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top. They add brightness and an aromatic touch to your dish.
How to Perfect Healthy Sesame Chicken
Perfecting your Healthy Sesame Chicken takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger, as they enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Control Heat Carefully: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should remain juicy and tender.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference—less for a savory kick, more for sweetness.
- Let the Sauce Thicken: Allowing the sauce to bubble briefly ensures it thickens properly, coating the chicken perfectly.
Best Side Dishes for Healthy Sesame Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Healthy Sesame Chicken can enhance its flavors even further. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that complements the sesame flavors beautifully.
- Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory chicken nicely.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and color.
- Coconut Rice: The creaminess of coconut rice pairs well with the savory notes of sesame chicken.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Light and healthy, zoodles serve as a great substitute for traditional noodles.
- Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans provide an additional source of nutrition while being deliciously simple.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Healthy Sesame Chicken can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect meal.
- Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it becomes dry. Aim for 10-12 minutes and check for doneness.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow at least 15 minutes to soak in the sauce before cooking.
- Using High Heat Incorrectly: Cooking on high heat can burn the sauce. Maintain medium-high heat and watch closely while stirring.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old or low-quality ingredients diminishes flavor. Always use fresh garlic, ginger, and lime for the best results.
- Not Garnishing: Skipping sesame seeds as garnish may make your dish less appealing. They add texture and a nutty flavor, so sprinkle them generously before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Healthy Sesame Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Healthy Sesame Chicken:
What makes this Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe healthy?
This recipe uses lean chicken breasts and substitutes traditional soy sauce with coconut aminos, reducing sodium levels while adding a delicious flavor.
Can I use other vegetables with Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Absolutely! You can customize this dish by adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrients.
Is this Healthy Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! The use of coconut aminos instead of soy sauce makes this dish gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce while cooking.
Final Thoughts
Healthy Sesame Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences. Try making this delightful dish tonight for a wholesome dinner that feels like a treat!
Healthy Sesame Chicken
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, delivering a satisfying meal without the guilt. With tender chicken coated in a rich sauce made from coconut aminos and toasted sesame oil, this dish is high in protein, low in carbs, and gluten-free. Whether you serve it over rice, quinoa, or with fresh vegetables, Healthy Sesame Chicken is a versatile choice that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
- Garlic and ginger (freshly minced)
- Lime juice and zest
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and cook white rice and green beans as per package instructions.
- In a non-stick skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken until browned (10-12 minutes).
- Whisk together sauce ingredients: coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, vinegar, lime juice, and zest.
- Remove cooked chicken and add sauce to the pan. Cook until bubbling (3-5 minutes).
- Return chicken to the pan and stir to coat evenly.
- Serve over rice or alongside green beans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
