Healthy Sesame Chicken
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls in love with bold, soul-warming flavors, this Healthy Sesame Chicken will give you the answer. I grew up in Orlando, but some of my happiest memories are cooking alongside my mama and abuela. Those kitchens were my first classrooms, and they taught me that food is more than just eating, it’s laughter and love. This sesame chicken brings that same joy to my table: tender chicken, a sweet-savory sauce, and just the right touch of sesame. It’s gluten free, quick to prepare, and absolutely delicious. Healthy sesame chicken is one of my favorite Thursday recipes dinners, and I promise it will soon be yours too.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 2 people |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American/Asian-inspired |
| Best Season | Year-round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier than takeout: This sesame chicken is gluten free, dairy free, and packed with protein, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.
- Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for easy pre made meals or weeknight food prep dinner ideas.
- Budget-friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe works well if you’re looking for cheap dinner ideas for 1 or 2 people.
- Customizable: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or extra veggies, making it a versatile choice for super healthy recipes dinner options.
- Family-approved: The sweet, tangy sauce makes it kid-friendly while still satisfying grown-up taste buds.
Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a better-than-takeout dinner! Juicy chicken, sweet sesame sauce, gluten free, and ready in 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 cups cooked green beans (optional)
- 1 cup cooked white rice (optional)
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into cubes. Cook rice and green beans if serving.
2. Heat avocado oil in a pan, add chicken, and cook until browned, 10-12 minutes.
3. Whisk together coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice.
4. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
5. Pour sauce into the hot pan. Cook 3-5 minutes until bubbling and thickened.
6. Return chicken to the pan and coat in sauce.
7. Serve over rice and green beans, garnish with sesame seeds.
Notes
Substitutions: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts, soy sauce instead of coconut aminos, and broccoli instead of green beans. Store leftovers for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz chicken, 1 cup green beans, 1/2 cup rice
- Calories: 584
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 53g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Optional for Serving: - 2 cups cooked green beans
- 1 cup cooked white rice
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip |
| Chicken | Chicken breasts keep it lean, but thighs make it juicier. |
| Avocado Oil | Substitute with olive oil or refined coconut oil. |
| Coconut Aminos | Low sodium soy sauce or Bragg’s Aminos work as a swap. |
| Honey | Maple syrup can be used for a different sweetness. |
| Garlic | Fresh garlic is best, but 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder works too. |
| Rice Vinegar | Apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch. |
| Sesame Oil | Don’t skip this, it adds the signature nutty flavor. |
| Green Beans | Swap with broccoli, snap peas, or stir-fried peppers. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Cut chicken into small cubes, and cook rice and green beans according to package directions.
- Cook chicken: Heat avocado oil in a pan for 1 minute, then add the chicken. Sauté over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
- Whisk sauce: While chicken cooks, whisk together coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Set aside chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the same hot pan. Cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until it starts bubbling and thickening. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it well to coat in the sauce.
- Serve: Plate chicken over rice and green beans, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Uneven cubes can lead to some pieces drying out.
- Use a nonstick or cast iron skillet to keep the chicken from sticking. This also makes cleanup easier.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook chicken in two batches if necessary so it browns nicely.
- Garnish with extra lime wedges for a bright finishing touch.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Balance flavors: Taste your sauce before cooking it, and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed. A little more lime or honey can change everything.
- Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic, lime zest, and ginger will give the dish a more vibrant flavor compared to dried alternatives.
- Keep an eye on the sauce: It thickens quickly, so stir continuously to avoid burning.
- Serve immediately: This sesame chicken is best hot off the stove, when the sauce is glossy and clings to each piece.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Low Carb Version: Skip the rice and serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly option.
- Vegetarian Sesame Tofu: Swap chicken with firm tofu cubes, pan-seared until golden, then coat with sauce.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cooked sesame chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-4 days. To freeze, portion the chicken and sauce into freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over fluffy jasmine rice with bright green beans for a balanced plate. Add extra sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for a restaurant-style finish. This dish also looks beautiful in a shallow bowl, garnished with fresh herbs or scallions.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this sesame chicken with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lime for a refreshing option. For sides, try roasted broccoli, Asian cucumber salad, or even steamed edamame for extra protein.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. In a pinch, you can microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is sesame chicken healthy?
Yes, this version is much healthier than takeout. It’s gluten free, lower in sugar, and uses lean chicken breast.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely, thighs are juicier and work just as well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
What can I substitute for coconut aminos?
Soy sauce or Bragg’s Liquid Aminos are great alternatives. Use low sodium to keep it balanced.
Can I meal prep this sesame chicken?
Yes, it reheats beautifully. Store in meal prep containers with rice and veggies for easy pre made meals.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken for tofu or even chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, it freezes for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight before reheating.
What veggies go best with sesame chicken?
Green beans, broccoli, snap peas, or even stir-fried bell peppers pair perfectly with the sweet-savory sauce.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 6 oz chicken, 1 cup green beans, 1/2 cup rice |
| Calories | 584 kcal |
| Protein | 53 g |
| Carbohydrates | 47 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Healthy Sesame Chicken is quick, flavorful, and perfect for when you want tasty healthy dinner ideas that feel indulgent without the guilt. Make it for your next weeknight meal and watch it become a family favorite!
You may also like my Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan or Chicken Roll Ups with Crescent Rolls
