Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I tossed the sesame seeds into the hot skillet, the intoxicating aroma of my Healthy Sesame Chicken filled the kitchen, whisking me back to the bustling streets of my favorite Asian market. This recipe is more than just a quick dinner option; it involves a delightful blend of flavors that make it taste even better than takeout while keeping it low-carb and protein-rich. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a caramelized sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a comforting meal at home, this recipe is bound to become a weeknight favorite. Are you ready to discover how to make this healthier version of your beloved sesame chicken? Why is Healthy Sesame Chicken a Must-Try? Packed with protein: Each serving boasts an impressive protein content that keeps you full and satisfied. Quick to prepare: Made in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Low-carb delight: Enjoy a guilt-free meal that fits into your healthy eating plan. Flavor-packed: The combination of coconut aminos and ginger adds depth to every bite, making it better than takeout. Versatile options: Switch it up by using tofu or different veggies like bell peppers if you’re looking for variety. For another quick dish, check out this Oven Baked Chicken recipe that gives you effortless flavor! Sesame Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main source of protein; substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture. For the Sauce • Avocado oil – Ideal for sautéing; olive oil or refined coconut oil can be used as a substitute. • Coconut aminos – Adds a savory flavor; low sodium soy sauce works if needed. • Honey – Provides sweetness; maples syrup can serve as a vegan alternative. • Toasted sesame oil – Essential to achieve that rich sesame flavor; avoid substituting with regular sesame oil. • Ground ginger – Adds warmth; fresh ginger can be swapped at a 1:1 ratio here. • Garlic cloves, minced – Enhances flavor; fresh is best, but garlic powder is a fine alternative in a pinch. • Rice vinegar – Offers tanginess; can be omitted, using extra coconut aminos instead. • Black pepper – For seasoning; freshly cracked black pepper is recommended for the best flavor. • Lime zest and juice – Brightens up the dish; omit if citrus flavor isn’t your preference. For Garnishing • Sesame seeds – A delightful garnish; chopped green onions can also be used. For the Side • Cooked green beans – A great vegetable side; substitute with broccoli or any preferred veggies. • Cooked white rice – Serves as the base; switch to cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. With these Sesame Chicken ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from creating a dish that’s not only healthy but also bursting with flavor! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sesame Chicken Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. While you prep the chicken, cook the white rice and green beans according to the package instructions, usually around 15-20 minutes. This sets the stage for your quick and healthy sesame chicken dish while these components cook simultaneously. Step 2: Heat the Pan In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute. Look for the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s hot enough for sautéing. This step ensures your tender chicken browns beautifully, creating that delicious outer crust integral to the flavor of your sesame chicken. Step 3: Sauté the Chicken Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté the chicken for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown on all sides and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This visual cue and tender texture promise a mouthwatering result in your healthy sesame chicken. Step 4: Mix the Sauce While the chicken cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl. Combine coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, rice vinegar, and freshly cracked black pepper until fully incorporated. This sauce will elevate your sesame chicken, adding a rich, savory flavor that’s both sweet and tangy—perfect for coating your chicken. Step 5: Set Aside the Chicken Once the chicken is beautifully browned, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Keep it warm while you prepare the sauce. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures your healthy sesame chicken is succulent and loaded with tasty goodness during the mixing process. Step 6: Cook the Sauce Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the same hot pan, stirring gently to deglaze it and incorporate any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Cook on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened, watching closely to prevent burning. This step brings out the depth of flavor and creates that irresistible glaze for the sesame chicken. Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet and gently toss it in the bubbling sauce to coat thoroughly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over medium heat, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. The rich, glossy coating brings your healthy sesame chicken to life, ready for serving. Step 8: Serve with Sides Finally, serve your quick and healthy sesame chicken over a bed of cooked white rice and alongside the steamed green beans. For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top and drizzle with lime juice to brighten the dish. Enjoy your meal that tastes even better than takeout! Sesame Chicken Variations & Substitutions Customize your Healthy Sesame Chicken to tantalize your taste buds! Embrace creativity in the kitchen as you experiment with flavors and textures. Tofu Substitute: Swap chicken for firm tofu for a delightful vegetarian twist that soaks up the sauce beautifully. Different Veggies: Use colorful bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and flavor in your dish. Sweetness Adjustment: Play with the sweetness by modifying the honey amount or using agave nectar for a different taste profile. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, replace white rice with cauliflower rice, making your meal even healthier. Zesty Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist that brings heat to your sesame chicken. Ginger Blast: Boost the ginger flavor by using freshly grated ginger instead of ground for a more robust taste. Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and whisk it into the bubbling sauce for extra richness. Garnish Alternatives: Swap sesame seeds for crushed peanuts or chopped cilantro for an exciting garnish that adds texture and color. Feel free to take inspiration from these ideas and discover new ways to enjoy your dish! If you’re seeking more flavorful chicken options, try my Pan Spicy Sesame or explore the Keto Chicken Alfredo for a comforting and healthy dinner. How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken Fridge: Store any leftover sesame chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful for your next meal. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sesame chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date. Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened. What to Serve with Quick and Healthy Sesame Chicken Elevate your meal by pairing it with delicious sides that enhance the flavors of your sesame chicken. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: A velvety complement that brings a light, buttery flavor, softening the taste profile of the chicken’s savory glaze. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This lightly sautéed green vegetable adds a delightful crunch and subtle bitterness, balancing the sweetness of the dish. Quinoa Salad: Tossed with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing, quinoa creates a nutritious contrast to the tender, glazed chicken, enriching your meal beautifully. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy, caramelized exterior and tender inside provide a robust flavor that pairs well with the sesame notes of the chicken. Chilled Cucumber Salad: Offering a refreshing crunch and a hint of tang, this salad cools the palate and complements the warm sesame chicken perfectly. Lychee Iced Tea: This fruity beverage adds a sweet and floral finish, enhancing the overall dining experience with a hint of Asia. Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet dessert that combines creamy rice with ripe mango, bringing a mildly sweet closure to your meal while echoing the flavor profile of sesame chicken. Make Ahead Options These Healthy Sesame Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the chicken into cubes and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce by whisking together the coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, and spices, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, make sure all components are stored separately and tightly sealed to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the marinated chicken in your heated pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and cook until heated through. In minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that rivals takeout but is so much healthier! Expert Tips for Healthy Sesame Chicken • Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the cooking temperature to ensure the chicken browns perfectly without burning. High heat works well for quick cooking. • Thickening the Sauce: Let the sauce bubble gently for the best thickness. If it looks too thin, adjust the heat to medium-low and let it simmer a bit longer. • Mix It Up: To keep things fresh, try different veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for your Healthy Sesame Chicken. They add color and flavor! • Don’t Overcook: Chicken should be cooked just until it’s golden brown to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness (165°F). • Garnish Joyfully: Toss sesame seeds and a bit of lime juice right before serving for an extra burst of flavor that elevates your dish! • Storage Tip: If making ahead, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and reheat gently to maintain texture. Quick and Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and firm to touch. Avoid those with dark spots or any discoloration. If you prefer juicier meat, opting for chicken thighs is a delicious alternative. What’s the best way to store leftover sesame chicken? Very! To keep your sesame chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pan to maintain the sauce’s lovely consistency. Can I freeze healthy sesame chicken? Absolutely! For optimal storage, freeze the sesame chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening? Perfectly understandable! If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, lower the heat to medium-low and let it gently simmer for an additional few minutes. You can also whisk a little cornstarch with some cold water and stir it into the sauce, cooking until it thickens to your liking. Are there any dietary considerations for this healthy sesame chicken? Very much so! This recipe is inherently gluten-free if you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time? Definitely! You can chop the chicken and vegetables a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. This makes the cooking process even quicker when you’re ready to whip up your sesame chicken, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in no time! Quick & Healthy Sesame Chicken that Tastes Better Than Takeout This Healthy Sesame Chicken is a quick and delicious dish, packed with protein and low-carb, making it better than takeout. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AsianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Substitute chicken thighs for juicier texture.For the Sauce2 tablespoons avocado oil Can substitute with olive oil or refined coconut oil.1/4 cup coconut aminos Low sodium soy sauce works if needed.2 tablespoons honey Maple syrup can serve as a vegan alternative.1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil Essential for rich sesame flavor; avoid regular sesame oil.1 teaspoon ground ginger Fresh ginger can be swapped at a 1:1 ratio.2 cloves garlic cloves, minced Fresh is best, garlic powder is an alternative.1 tablespoon rice vinegar Can be omitted, using extra coconut aminos instead.1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked is recommended.1 tablespoon lime zest and juice Omit if citrus flavor isn't preferred.For Garnishing1 tablespoon sesame seeds Chopped green onions can also be used.For the Side2 cups cooked green beans Substitute with broccoli or any preferred veggies.2 cups cooked white rice Switch to cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Equipment Large SkilletMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Sesame ChickenBegin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. While you prep the chicken, cook the white rice and green beans according to the package instructions.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until it shimmers.Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer and sauté for approximately 10-12 minutes until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.While the chicken cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl until fully incorporated.Once the chicken is beautifully browned, carefully remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the same hot pan, stirring gently to deglaze it, and cook on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until bubbling and slightly thickened.Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet and toss it in the bubbling sauce to coat thoroughly for an additional 2-3 minutes.Serve your sesame chicken over a bed of cooked white rice and alongside the steamed green beans, garnishing with sesame seeds and lime juice. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
