why make this recipe
Healthy Sesame Chicken offers a fantastic blend of flavors and nutrition. This dish is a lighter version of the classic takeout meal, perfect for those who want to enjoy better health without giving up on taste. By using lean chicken and a homemade sauce, you control the ingredients, making it a wholesome option. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in less than 30 minutes!
how to make Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients:
- 5 Tablespoons Soy Sauce – Low Sodium
- 1-2 Teaspoons Hot Sauce – Optional for heat
- 2 Teaspoons Minced Garlic
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons Ground Ginger
- 1 Tablespoon Sesame Seeds
- 1 Tablespoon Corn Starch
- 2 Tablespoons Water – Cold will mix best
- 2 Pounds Chicken Thighs – or Chicken Breast
- 2 Tablespoons Corn Starch
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Sesame Oil – Toasted (or Other Oil)
Directions:
- Mix together your Corn Starch and COLD Water. Add that and the rest of your sauce ingredients into a mixing bowl and mix everything together.
- Trim the fat off of and cut your Chicken into pieces. Add your chopped Chicken, Corn Starch, Salt, and Black Pepper into a bowl and mix everything until all the Chicken is coated.
- Add your Sesame Oil into a pan over Medium Heat. Once heated, add your Chicken mix and let it cook for a couple of minutes.
- Flip your Chicken over once one side has browned and let it cook for an additional couple of minutes.
- Pour in your Sauce and simmer on Low Heat for a few minutes or until your Sauce thickens up.
how to serve Healthy Sesame Chicken
Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can add steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas on the side for extra color and nutrients. Garnish with extra sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a nice touch.
how to store Healthy Sesame Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
tips to make Healthy Sesame Chicken
- For an extra crunch, add some toasted nuts like cashews or almonds when serving.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce based on your preference.
- Feel free to use other vegetables or proteins in the recipe, like shrimp or tofu, for variations.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version of this recipe by substituting chicken with firm tofu or seitan. The sauce ingredients will work just as well to coat the alternative protein.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breast can be used if you prefer a leaner option, just be careful not to overcook it.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your corn starch is certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinated chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to cook.
Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 5 Tablespoons Soy Sauce – Low Sodium
- 1-2 Teaspoons Hot Sauce – Optional for heat
- 2 Teaspoons Minced Garlic
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1 1/2 Teaspoons Ground Ginger
- 1 Tablespoon Sesame Seeds
- 1 Tablespoon Corn Starch
- 2 Tablespoons Water – Cold will mix best
For the Chicken
- 2 Pounds Chicken Thighs – or Chicken Breast
- 2 Tablespoons Corn Starch
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Sesame Oil – Toasted (or Other Oil)
Instructions
Preparation
- Mix together your Corn Starch and COLD Water. Add that and the rest of your sauce ingredients into a mixing bowl and mix everything together.
- Trim the fat off of and cut your Chicken into pieces. Add your chopped Chicken, Corn Starch, Salt, and Black Pepper into a bowl and mix everything until all the Chicken is coated.
Cooking
- Add your Sesame Oil into a pan over Medium Heat. Once heated, add your Chicken mix and let it cook for a couple of minutes.
- Flip your Chicken over once one side has browned and let it cook for an additional couple of minutes.
- Pour in your Sauce and simmer on Low Heat for a few minutes or until your Sauce thickens up.