Healthy Sesame Chicken
Healthy Sesame Chicken is a lighter twist on the classic takeout favorite. It features tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy, golden sesame seed crust and topped with a flavorful…
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Healthy Sesame Chicken is a lighter twist on the classic takeout favorite. It features tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy, golden sesame seed crust and topped with a flavorful sauce that balances sweet and savory notes. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and a subtle nuttiness that makes every bite delightful.
I love making this recipe when I want something comforting but not too heavy. It’s a great way to enjoy that familiar sesame chicken flavor without feeling weighed down afterward. Plus, it’s packed with protein and can easily be paired with lots of steamed veggies or brown rice to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
One of my favorite things about this dish is how quickly it comes together on busy nights. I like to sprinkle extra sesame seeds on top just before serving for an added crunch, and sometimes I throw in a few chopped scallions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. It’s always a hit at the table, and I find myself making it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Healthy Sesame Chicken
Chicken breast: It’s lean and cooks quickly. You can swap it with chicken thighs for juicier meat or tofu for a plant-based option. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Sesame oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor. Use toasted sesame oil for a stronger taste or regular sesame oil if you want something milder. Olive oil works if you’re in a pinch.
Soy sauce or tamari: Tamari is gluten-free and a bit less salty. Low-sodium soy sauce helps keep things healthy. If needed, coconut aminos work as a soy-free alternative.
Honey or maple syrup: These balance the salty and tangy sauce. Feel free to use agave or a sugar substitute if you want it less sweet or need it diabetic-friendly.
Broccoli: It adds crunch and nutrition. You can swap it for snap peas, green beans, or even bell peppers based on what you have.
How Do You Get the Chicken Tender and the Sauce Perfectly Thickened?
Cooking the chicken just right and thickening the sauce are key to this dish’s success. Here’s how:
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat so it browns without drying out. Avoid crowding the pan to keep it tender.
- Add garlic and ginger after chicken is mostly cooked to preserve their fresh flavors.
- Whisk cornstarch or arrowroot powder into the sauce liquid and pour into the pan. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly—usually 2-3 minutes.
This balance brings out great taste and texture in every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – great for stir-frying chicken and veggies evenly with high heat.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – making it easy to chop chicken, broccoli, and green onions safely.
- Small bowl – perfect for whisking together the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring spoons – to keep your sauce flavors balanced exactly as the recipe calls for.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you stir and toss everything without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a quicker cook time and slightly sweeter flavor.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas with broccoli for extra crunch and color.
- Mix in a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha if you like spice.
- Top with chopped peanuts or cashews to add satisfying crunch and nutty taste.
Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Veggies:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Sauce:
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
For Serving and Garnish:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain white rice
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 25 minutes to a delicious, healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once done, set it aside so it’s ready to serve with the chicken and broccoli.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until it is tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the skillet. Add the chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through.
5. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the chicken and stir-fry for about 1 minute until you can smell their lovely aroma.
6. Add the Sauce and Combine:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.
7. Finish the Dish:
Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together so the chicken, broccoli, and sauce are well combined and heated through.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the sesame chicken and broccoli over the cooked rice. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a fresh, nutty finish.
Enjoy your healthy, tasty sesame chicken bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before stir-frying to avoid soggy broccoli. Cook a little less time since frozen broccoli is often softer.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce. Also, double-check that your cornstarch or arrowroot powder is gluten-free.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken, broccoli, and sauce, then store separately from the rice in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Sesame Oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, use olive oil or avocado oil for cooking. Keep in mind that you’ll miss a bit of that nutty sesame flavor, so you might want to add extra toasted sesame seeds for garnish.
