Why Make This Recipe
Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines flavor and wellness. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, this recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s a great way to enjoy a twist on a classic Chinese dish while keeping it healthy.
How to Make Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- Soy sauce (or coconut aminos for paleo)
- Sesame oil
- Honey or maple syrup
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your healthy sesame chicken!
How to Serve Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
Serve your Sesame Chicken over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious plate. This dish is great for lunch or dinner and can even be enjoyed as leftovers.
How to Store Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
To store your Sesame Chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but letting it sit for a few hours will deepen the flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Use a non-stick pan to reduce the amount of oil needed for cooking.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting chicken with firm tofu. Simply press and cube the tofu, then marinate and cook it as you would the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork or shrimp instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it when you’re ready. This helps save time and enhances the flavors.
Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce or coconut aminos Use coconut aminos for gluten-free option.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Honey or maple syrup Use maple syrup for vegan option.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, grated
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken breast Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds For garnish.
- 2 sticks Green onions, chopped For garnish.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinade Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
- Preheat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.