There’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of garlic and ginger wafting from the kitchen to spark your appetite. After a long day, I often find myself yearning for that takeout favorite, sesame chicken, but with a healthier twist that fits my lifestyle. Enter my Quick and Healthy Sesame Chicken, a dish that seamlessly combines the rich, savory flavors you love without the guilt of traditional fried options.
In just 25 minutes, you can savor tender chicken glistening in a luscious sesame sauce, paired with vibrant green beans and fluffy rice. This recipe caters perfectly to anyone looking to escape the boredom of fast food while enjoying a high-protein, low-carb meal that’s also gluten-free. Whether you’re whipping it up for family dinner or impressing friends, this dish promises the delightful taste of takeout that’s not just tasty, but wholesome too. Let’s dive in and create a dinner that satisfies both your cravings and your health goals!
Why is Healthy Sesame Chicken a Must-Try?
Quick to Make: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy all the flavors of classic sesame chicken without the excess calories and fat.
Packed with Protein: With 53g of protein per serving, this dish keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, and adjust veggies to your liking for endless variations.
Family-Friendly: Great for busy weeknights and sure to impress family and friends alike—everyone will love it!
Dive into your culinary adventure and experience the delightful flavors of this Healthy Sesame Chicken that banishes the fast-food boredom.
Healthy Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source; for added flavor, try chicken thighs or tenders as substitutes.
For the Sauce
• Avocado Oil – Ideal for sautéing; can be replaced with olive or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• Coconut Aminos – This sauce base provides umami flavor; low-sodium soy sauce is a good substitute if coconut aminos aren’t available.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; use maple syrup to keep it vegan.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Essential for that rich sesame flavor; make sure to use toasted for the best results.
• Ground Ginger – Provides warmth and spice; fresh ginger works as a substitute at a 2:1 ratio.
• Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic depth; minced garlic can save you time when cooking.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the flavors; it’s optional, so feel free to add more coconut aminos if you don’t have it.
• Black Pepper – Introduces a mild heat; standard black pepper works perfectly.
• Lime Zest & Juice – Enhances freshness; you can omit this if you’re not a fan.
For Serving
• Cooked Green Beans (or other vegetables) – Add nutrition and color; feel free to swap with broccoli or your favorite veggies.
• Cooked White Rice (or alternative like cauliflower rice) – Serves as the base of the meal, providing hearty satisfaction beneath the vibrant chicken.
• Sesame Seeds – For that final touch of garnish and crunch; optional but highly recommended to elevate your dish.
How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken
Cut Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Make sure they’re uniform for even cooking. While you prep, get your rice and green beans cooking according to package instructions.
Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until shimmering. This will ensure a perfect sear for your chicken.
Sauté Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the hot pan and sauté them for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare Sauce: While the chicken is sautéing, whisk together the coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a bowl. This rich sauce will elevate your dish!
Remove Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This allows the flavors to reabsorb later when you combine everything.
Cook Sauce: Pour your prepared sauce into the same hot pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously until it bubbles and begins to thicken. This steaming process really helps develop the flavors.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook together for another 2 minutes, ensuring every piece is generously coated.
Serve: Serve your delicious Healthy Sesame Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or your choice of cooked green beans.
Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added crunch and a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Healthy Sesame Chicken
Timing is Key: Ensure to sauté the chicken thoroughly for the best texture, avoiding undercooking by keeping an eye on the time.
Watch the Sauce: For a perfect glaze, let your sauce bubble and reduce; this prevents burning and ensures optimal thickening for your Healthy Sesame Chicken.
Mind Your Substitutes: If using soy sauce instead of coconut aminos, reduce other salty elements in your recipe to keep the flavors balanced.
Flavor Boost: For an extra zing, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh lime juice just before serving; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap out green beans for other colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas—this adds nutritional value and visual appeal.
What to Serve with Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Let’s create a balanced meal that’ll have your taste buds dancing and your stomach smiling!
Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds crunch and color, complementing the savory chicken beautifully. This vibrant green vegetable not only enhances the plate but also elevates your vitamin intake.
Fluffy Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb, this alternative offers a perfect bed for your sesame chicken, soaking up the delicious sauce without adding unnecessary calories.
Crisp Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast that brings in a cool, crunchy texture, making each bite of sesame chicken even more delightful. Toss sliced cucumbers with a light soy vinaigrette for an added zing.
Coconut Rice: Infused with a subtle sweetness, this fragrant side pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken, creating a wonderful balance on your palate.
Garlic Green Beans: Tender yet crisp, sautéed garlic green beans add a burst of flavor and maintain the healthy theme of the meal. They make a lovely visual presentation alongside the chicken.
Miso Soup: For drink enthusiasts, a warm bowl of miso soup can provide a comforting addition to your meal, enhancing the ethnic experience of your dinner.
Mango Sticky Rice: Craving something sweet? This dessert offers a luscious finish, perfectly balancing the savory notes of your meal with its smooth and creamy texture.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and subtly flavored, chilled green tea adds a healthy, light drink option that cleanses the palate and complements your healthy fare.
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Sesame Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also enhances the flavor as the sauce settles overnight. You can even cook the rice and green beans a day ahead—refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the prepped chicken until cooked through, add the sauce, and toss until well combined. You’ll enjoy a quick, delicious dinner that’s just as satisfying, without the last-minute rush!
Healthy Sesame Chicken Variations
Get ready to take your meal to new heights with these fun variations on a classic dish!
Tofu Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian option that still packs a punch in protein and flavor.
Shrimp Delight: Enjoy succulent shrimp in place of chicken for a quick-cooking alternative that cooks in mere minutes for a delightful twist.
Spicy Upgrade: Fire up your meal by adding red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for an exciting kick.
Veggie Medley: Mix it up by including bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli instead of green beans for colorful and nutritious variations.
Cauliflower Rice: Go paleo by swapping out traditional rice for cauliflower rice, allowing you to enjoy the same satisfying bowl while keeping it low-carb.
Nutty Flavors: Stir in chopped cashews or almonds at the end of cooking for a crunchy texture and nutty goodness that enhances the dish.
Citrusy Zing: Brighten the dish with a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of zest for a fresh, fruity contrast that enlivens each bite.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh basil or cilantro right before serving to elevate the flavors with aromatic freshness that dances on your palate.
How to Store and Freeze Healthy Sesame Chicken
Room Temperature: Enjoy Healthy Sesame Chicken fresh for up to 2 hours after cooking, keeping it covered to maintain warmth and flavor.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Healthy Sesame Chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to keep that delicious sauce silky smooth.
Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, choose chicken breasts that are pink and moist, indicating they are fresh. When selecting green beans, look for vibrant color and firmness; avoid those that are dull or limp. Fresh garlic should be firm with no signs of sprouting, and ginger should be smooth and fragrant. If you can, opt for organic honey and coconut aminos to ensure you’re using the best quality in your healthy sesame chicken.
How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
For optimum storage, place leftovers in an airtight container once fully cooled. They can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to reheat until steaming hot before serving again! I often find that microwave reheating is super simple, but if you prefer, warming in a pan with a splash of water can help revitalize the sauce’s consistency.
Can I freeze Healthy Sesame Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a sealed freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it into the microwave until warm. This will help retain the flavors and texture that make this dish so delightful!
What can I do if my sauce won’t thicken?
If you find that your sauce isn’t thickening, don’t worry! Here’s a step-by-step fix: first, make sure you’re cooking it over medium-high heat to encourage bubbling. If it’s still not thickening after 3-5 minutes, consider simmering it longer; lowering the heat slightly can help prevent burning while allowing it to reduce. If it remains thin, a quick fix is to mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) and add it to the bubbling sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Very much so! This healthy sesame chicken is naturally gluten-free when using coconut aminos, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerances. If you have a nut allergy, make sure to use oils that are nut-free, like avocado oil. For those on a low-carb diet, substituting rice with cauliflower rice can make this dish even more suitable for your needs. Always consider the ingredients you’re serving if you have pets; onions and garlic, though delicious, can be harmful to dogs and cats, so ensure they stay away from any leftovers.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Yes, definitely! If you’re out of certain ingredients, there are several easy swaps. For chicken, you can use shrimp or firm tofu based on your dietary preference. Olive or coconut oil can replace avocado oil in the sauté process. If you don’t have coconut aminos, low-sodium soy sauce works just fine, though keep an eye on the salt levels of your other ingredients. Adjust and experiment with whatever veggies you have on hand; bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli make lovely alternatives that boost nutritional value and add color!
Healthy Sesame Chicken in 25 Minutes: Guilt-Free Yum!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Ensure they are uniform for even cooking. Start cooking your rice and green beans according to package instructions.
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until shimmering.
- Add the chicken cubes to the hot pan and sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the same hot pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Return the chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly, and cook together for another 2 minutes.
- Serve your Healthy Sesame Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or cooked green beans, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.