Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe Under 30 Minutes

by

Imagine the smell of juicy chicken in a sweet, savory, and spicy sauce. It’s all ready in just 30 minutes or less. This easy healthy sesame chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

As a busy parent, finding meals everyone likes can be tough. That’s why I’m sharing this recipe. It’s not only tasty but also soy-free, refined sugar-free, and gluten-free. It’s great for many diets.

Looking for a quick dinner or a homemade Asian dish? This recipe is for you. Say goodbye to deep-frying and hello to a flavorful, healthy meal!

Table of Contents

Why This Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is Better Than Takeout

This easy healthy sesame chicken recipe is a game-changer for Asian-inspired dishes. It’s healthier than traditional takeout. It’s perfect for those looking for healthy chicken recipes, low-calorie chicken meals, and homemade Asian-inspired dishes.

Health Benefits of Homemade Version

The recipe uses wholesome ingredients for its health benefits. It swaps soy sauce for coconut aminos to cut down on sodium. Honey replaces refined sugar, making it lower in calories and less processed.

Time and Cost Savings

This recipe saves time and money. It takes only 35 minutes to prepare and cook. Making it at home is often quicker than waiting for delivery. Plus, it’s cheaper than ordering takeout.

Dietary Accommodations

This recipe is adaptable for different diets. It can be made gluten-free, soy-free, and even paleo-friendly with simple changes. This makes it accessible to everyone, ensuring everyone can enjoy its delicious flavors.

Choosing this easy healthy sesame chicken over takeout is a smart choice. It offers health benefits, saves time, and is versatile for different diets. It’s a great option for a low-calorie chicken meal or a homemade Asian-inspired dish that outshines the competition.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Sesame Chicken

Making a delicious sesame chicken recipe at home starts with choosing the right ingredients. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the base. These provide the protein and a tender texture.

To get the flavors just right, use avocado oil, toasted sesame oil, and fresh garlic. Coconut aminos, honey, rice vinegar, and a bit of sriracha are also key.

Protein and Base Components

The chicken is the main attraction. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best taste. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.

Cut the chicken into small pieces. This ensures it cooks evenly and tastes great in every bite.

Sauce Ingredients

The sauce is what makes sesame chicken special. You’ll need coconut aminos, honey, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. These give it a rich, nutty flavor.

Minced garlic and a bit of sriracha add depth and heat. These ingredients make the sauce truly unforgettable.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

To boost the flavors, try adding fresh ginger, lime zest, fish sauce, or chopped green onions and bell peppers. These extras can make the dish even better.

If you can’t find coconut aminos, use liquid aminos or low-sodium soy sauce instead. This way, you can always find the right ingredients for your sesame chicken.

With the right ingredients, you can make a sesame chicken recipe that’s both authentic and easy to make. It’s perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Sesame Chicken Ingredients

Kitchen Tools and Preparation Tips

To make the perfect easy healthy sesame chicken, you need a few basic tools and some prep. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes this quick weeknight dinner or meal prep option fast.

You’ll need a large nonstick skillet, a wooden spoon or spatula, a small bowl for the sauce, and measuring cups and spoons. Measure all your ingredients before cooking to save time.

Using pre-cooked rice can make things even quicker. It lets you just reheat the rice while the chicken cooks. Whisk the sauce ingredients while the chicken sizzles to blend the flavors well.

With the right tools and prep, you’ll have this easy healthy sesame chicken ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing a tasty easy dinner recipes like this chicken stir fry is simple. Let’s go through the steps to make this delicious Asian-inspired chicken dish.

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Making the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together coconut aminos, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, and black pepper. Set it aside.

Final Cooking Process

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil and sesame oil. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s golden.

Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until it smells great. Pour in the sauce and bring to a boil. Then, lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and coat the chicken.

chicken stir fry

The whole process takes about 20-25 minutes. You’ll end up with a flavorful, glazed chicken stir fry. It’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.

Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken Sauce Secrets

The secret to a mouthwatering sesame garlic chicken dish lies in the sauce. This simple yet flavorful sauce is the key to elevating your homemade Asian-inspired chicken recipes to new heights. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients and techniques that will help you create the perfect sesame chicken sauce every time.

The foundation of the sauce is a blend of coconut aminos, which provide a deep umami flavor, and honey for a subtle sweetness. Rice vinegar lends a tangy note, while sriracha adds a kick of heat. The star ingredient is toasted sesame oil, which imparts the authentic sesame aroma and taste that makes this dish so irresistible.

To achieve the perfect consistency, let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken. Adjust the sweetness with a touch more honey, or amp up the heat by adding a bit more sriracha, depending on your personal preference. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding freshly grated ginger or a sprinkle of lime zest.

If you love saucy dishes, double the sauce recipe to have an extra serving for your rice or vegetables. This way, you can ensure that every bite is coated in the delicious sesame garlic goodness.

IngredientQuantity
Coconut aminos1/4 cup
Honey2 tablespoons
Rice vinegar1 tablespoon
Sriracha1 teaspoon
Toasted sesame oil2 teaspoons

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Make your sesame chicken even better by adding the right sides. Try it over steamed white rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice. Or, for a healthier choice, use riced cauliflower.

Pair the chicken with fresh, crunchy veggies to balance it out. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are great choices. They add color and texture. For a bigger side, try vegetable fried rice, basil fried rice, or pineapple fried rice. These go well with the Asian-inspired chicken.

Garnish Ideas

  • Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch
  • Garnish with chopped green onions for a bright, oniony flavor
  • Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

These garnishes will make your easy healthy sesame chicken look and taste amazing. They make it a great meal prep choice.

Storage and Meal Prep Guidelines

Enjoying the flavorful [easy healthy sesame chicken] doesn’t have to end with the first serving. This versatile dish can be easily incorporated into your meal prep ideas and easy dinner recipes throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your healthy chicken recipes for maximum convenience and taste:

For leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you’d like to enjoy it for even longer, the dish can be frozen in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, simply transfer the chicken to the microwave or stovetop and warm until hot throughout.

To meal prep, portion the sesame chicken with cooked rice and your favorite steamed veggies into individual containers. This makes for a delicious and balanced easy dinner recipe that’s ready to grab and go. The chicken reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it all week long without sacrificing flavor or texture.

The sesame chicken recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep ideas and healthy chicken recipes. With its quick cooking time and long-lasting storage, it’s perfect for busy weekdays when you need a wholesome, flavorful easy dinner recipe on the table fast.

Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications

Explore the many ways to enjoy this easy, healthy sesame chicken recipe. It’s perfect for those looking for paleo-friendly, vegetarian, or gluten-free options.

For a paleo version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It’s low in carbs but keeps the dish tasty. Try chicken thighs for a softer texture than breasts.

Vegetarians and vegans can swap the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a sweetener that’s plant-based.

To make it gluten-free, pick ingredients that are gluten-free, like coconut aminos or soy sauce alternatives. Add snap peas, carrots, or water chestnuts for extra nutrition and texture.

VariationIngredient Substitutions
Paleo
  • Cauliflower rice instead of regular rice
  • Chicken thighs instead of breasts
Vegetarian/Vegan
  • Firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken
  • Maple syrup instead of honey
Gluten-Free
  • Gluten-free coconut aminos or soy sauce alternative
  • Snap peas, carrots, or water chestnuts as additional veggies

These easy, healthy chicken recipes and dietary modifications let you enjoy the tasty flavors of this Asian-inspired chicken dish regardless of your dietary needs.

Conclusion

This easy healthy sesame chicken recipe is a tasty, nutritious choice for quick dinners or homemade Asian dishes. It’s full of flavor and uses healthier ingredients. This makes it a guilt-free option for Asian food lovers.

The recipe can be made in many ways, making it great for everyone. Learning this dish means you’ll have a quick, impressive meal ready. It shows that healthy food can be easy and delicious. So, why choose greasy takeout when you can make this tasty sesame chicken at home?

If you want to save time, money, or just eat healthier, try this recipe. It’s perfect for your weekly meals. Start making this easy healthy sesame chicken in your kitchen today and enjoy the delicious results.

Leave a Comment