Healthy Sesame Chicken

Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious, healthy dinner! Packed with protein, low in carbs, and gluten-free, it’s simple to make and better than takeout! This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests at a gathering. You’ll love the balance of flavors and how quickly it comes together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: With a combination of coconut aminos and toasted sesame oil, this dish bursts with rich flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and nutritious vegetables, it fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: A great option for those looking to avoid gluten without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Healthy Sesame Chicken efficiently, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These tools will help you achieve the best results with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Essential for sautéing chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while ensuring safety during food preparation.

Ingredients

For this Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch cubes
• 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1/4 cup coconut aminos
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce

• 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 Serving

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 cups cooked green beans
• 1 cup cooked white rice

How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken breasts into small cubes.
• Cook white rice and green beans according to package directions.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

• In a skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute.
• Add the cubed chicken to the pan. Sauté until browned on all sides, around 10-12 minutes.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce

• While the chicken cooks, whisk together coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, black pepper, lime zest, and lime juice in a bowl until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
• Pour the sauce mixture into the hot skillet (no need to clean it) and cook for 3-5 minutes over medium-high heat. Stir consistently until it bubbles and thickens slightly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 5: Final Assembly

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat thoroughly in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve your Healthy Sesame Chicken over cooked white rice and green beans. Garnish with sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Enjoy this delightful dish that combines healthiness with incredible taste!

How to Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken

Healthy Sesame Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Salad: Toss together spinach, arugula, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from shredded cucumber and carrots can add a nice texture.

Over Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Serve the chicken over rice noodles for a delicious Asian-inspired meal.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini makes an excellent base.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness to your dish.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the sesame sauce.

How to Perfect Healthy Sesame Chicken

Creating the perfect Healthy Sesame Chicken involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will give your sauce a vibrant taste.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the honey amount based on your preference for sweetness in the sauce.
• Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Watch Sauce Closely: Keep an eye on the sauce while it thickens to prevent burning.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Sesame Chicken

Complementing your Healthy Sesame Chicken with the right sides can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some great options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color; steam until tender-crisp.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon is a nutritious side option.
3. Cauliflower Rice: Low in carbs, cauliflower rice is a great alternative to traditional rice.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness; roast them with olive oil and spices.
5. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic complement the chicken’s flavor beautifully.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can enhance your meal’s Asian flair while being light and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Healthy Sesame Chicken turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken in sauce for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring the sauce thickness: If the sauce isn’t thickening, it may need more time or a little cornstarch. Watch it closely to prevent burning.
• Using the wrong oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for sautéing. Avoid oils that can burn easily.
• Not garnishing properly: Garnishing with sesame seeds adds not only an appealing look but also extra flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Healthy Sesame Chicken

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Portion into individual servings for easier reheating.

Reheating Healthy Sesame Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Healthy Sesame Chicken.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb for different flavors while keeping it healthy.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce during preparation for extra heat and flavor.

Is Healthy Sesame Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe uses coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, making it a gluten-free option.

Can I add vegetables to Healthy Sesame Chicken?

Definitely! Stir-frying bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

Healthy Sesame Chicken is a versatile dish that’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy a healthier version of a classic favorite!