This Healthy Sesame Chicken brings a tasty twist to a classic meal! It features tender pieces of chicken tossed in a light sesame sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
I love that it’s a healthier version, so I can enjoy it without the guilt. Pair it with some steamed veggies for a colorful plate! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy. For a different option, try using chicken thighs, which have a richer flavor. You could even use firm tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I love using honey for its natural sweetness, but maple syrup works too! If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, you can use agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor to your dish. If you can’t find it, you could use peanut oil for a similar taste, but keep in mind it won’t have that distinct sesame aroma.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute. Just remember it’s a bit stronger, so use a little less.
Toasted Sesame Seeds: These provide a wonderful crunch. If you can’t find them, sunflower seeds can be a good stand-in, though they won’t have the same flavor.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for adding depth to your chicken. Start by mixing together your marinade ingredients and then add the chicken. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, try to marinate it for up to 4 hours in the fridge.
- Make sure all pieces are evenly coated. This helps the flavors penetrate better.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it really makes a difference in taste and juiciness!
How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Steamed green beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy sesame chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor, but you can also prep it ahead and let it marinate for up to 4 hours if you have the time. Total time, including marinating, is around 1 hour for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and grated ginger. Make sure all the pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or if you can, up to 4 hours for more flavor. Just remember to take it out about 10 minutes before cooking to let it warm a bit!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the marinated chicken pieces (be sure to reserve the marinade in the bowl). Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry, then add it to the marinade in the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
4. Combine and Heat:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it well in the thickened sauce. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and combined beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your sesame chicken over your choice of cooked rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top and garnish with the sliced green onions. Pair it with some steamed green beans on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy your Healthy Sesame Chicken! It’s delicious and packed with flavor!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey or maple syrup with agave nectar, brown sugar, or even coconut sugar. If using granulated sweeteners, start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as they are sweeter than honey or syrup.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply swap the soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, which are both great alternatives. Just make sure to check the labels to avoid any hidden gluten ingredients!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the marinated chicken, or steam them separately and serve them alongside for added flavor and nutrition.
