Are you craving a delicious meal that is both healthy and satisfying? Look no further than this Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe! This dish is not only packed with protein and low in carbs, but it’s also gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions. Plus, it’s simple to make and tastes even better than takeout!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delightful combination of tender chicken pieces coated in a savory, sweet, and tangy sauce. The dish is complemented by the nutty flavor of sesame oil and the zestiness of lime, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. It’s a meal that you can whip up in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To serve two people, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for easy cooking.
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil: For sautéing the chicken.
For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos: A soy sauce alternative that is both gluten-free and lower in sodium.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Provides a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon garlic cloves, minced: For aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Offers a hint of tanginess.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of spice.
- 1 teaspoon lime zest and 1 tablespoon lime juice: Enhances the dish with fresh citrus notes.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: For garnish and added texture.
Optional for Serving:
- 2 cups cooked green beans: A nutritious side that complements the chicken.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: For a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken into small cubes. Cook the white rice and green beans according to their package directions.
- Cook the Chicken: In a pan, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat for about 1 minute. Add the chicken cubes and sauté them until they are browned on all sides, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
- Combine Everything: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan (no need to clean it!) and cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until it starts to bubble and thicken. Be sure to stir consistently to prevent burning.
- Finish the Dish: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss it in the sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Plate your sesame chicken over the cooked rice and green beans. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
Tips and Substitutions
- Chicken: Feel free to substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
- Avocado Oil: Olive oil or refined coconut oil can be used as alternatives.
- Green Beans: Swap them out for broccoli or any other vegetables you enjoy.
- Coconut Aminos: If unavailable, low sodium soy sauce or Bragg’s Liquid Aminos are great substitutes.
- Ginger: Use 1/2 teaspoon of dried ground ginger if fresh ginger is not on hand.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves up a nutritious meal with each serving containing approximately:
- Calories: 584 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 53g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
Conclusion
This Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also offers a delectable dining experience that rivals your favorite takeout. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet and relish in its nutritious benefits!
Feel free to leave your comments below if you try this recipe or if you have any delicious variations to share!
Print
Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious, healthy dinner! Packed with protein, low in carbs, and gluten-free – it’s simple to make & better than takeout!
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
Instructions
Prep your chicken by cutting into small cubes. Cook white rice and green beans according to directions.
In a pan, heat avocado oil for 1 minute. Add chicken to the pan and sauté over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, approximately 10–12 minutes.
While chicken is cooking, whisk together the sauce ingredients.
Once chicken is cooked, remove from the pan and set aside.
Pour the sauce mixture into the hot pan (no need to clean it) and cook for 3–5 minutes over medium-high heat until it starts to bubble, stirring consistently. The sauce will thicken quickly—be careful not to burn it.
Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and coat it in the sauce.
Serve sesame chicken over cooked rice and green beans.
Notes
Chicken: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs.
Avocado Oil: Olive oil or refined coconut oil can be used instead.
Green Beans: Substitute with broccoli or your favorite vegetables.
Coconut Aminos: Use low-sodium soy sauce or Bragg’s Liquid Aminos as an alternative.
Ginger: Replace fresh ginger with 1/2 teaspoon dried ground ginger.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz chicken, 1 cup green beans, 1/2 cup white rice
- Calories: 584
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.03g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 53g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
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