Healthy Sesame Chicken Dinner

Healthy Sesame Chicken is my answer for quick dinners when I want something vibrant and better than takeout. The tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sesame sauce always brings comfort and a pop of flavor to any busy night.

I whipped up this sesame chicken one hectic Wednesday and my husband declared he liked it even more than his favorite takeout spot. Since then it is become a regular in our meal rotation whenever we crave something fresh and bold.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender lean protein that cooks quickly Look for fresh chicken that is cool to the touch with a slight pink hue
• Avocado oil: Neutral healthy fat with a high smoke point It lets the flavors shine Buy cold-pressed avocado oil with a deep green tint
• Coconut aminos: A sweet and salty soy sauce alternative that keeps the recipe gluten free Opt for brands with minimal added sugar or sodium
• Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness Look for raw or local honey if possible
• Toasted sesame oil: Brings deep nutty aroma and flavor Choose oil with a golden color and strong sesame aroma
• Ground ginger: Gives the sauce a zesty warming kick Use fresh ginger for more brightness if you have it
• Garlic cloves minced: Boosts flavor and brings an aromatic punch Always pick firm bulbs with tight skin
• Rice vinegar: Brightens the sauce with gentle tang Choose unseasoned rice vinegar for better control of salt
• Black pepper: Gives subtle heat Go for freshly cracked for best taste
• Lime zest and juice: Delivers citrusy notes and balances sweetness Select limes that feel heavy for their size
• Sesame seeds for garnish: Add crunch and visual pop Use toasted seeds for better flavor
• Green beans and white rice for serving: Provide color and create a complete meal Opt for crisp green beans and fluffy long grain rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Cut chicken breasts into one inch cubes Use a sharp knife and trim any visible fat for even cooking

Sauté the Chicken:

Heat avocado oil in a large pan over medium high for about one minute Add chicken in a single layer Cook undisturbed for two to three minutes on one side for a golden sear Stir chicken and continue cooking another eight minutes stirring occasionally until chicken is browned and cooked through

Make the Sauce:

While chicken cooks whisk together coconut aminos honey toasted sesame oil ground ginger minced garlic rice vinegar black pepper lime zest and lime juice in a bowl Mix until honey is fully dissolved for a smooth sauce

Remove and Rest Chicken:

Once chicken is cooked use tongs to lift it out of the pan Set aside on a clean plate Do not wipe the pan as the fond left adds flavor to the sauce

Thicken the Sauce:

Pour the whisked sauce into the same hot pan Heat over medium high Stir constantly for three to five minutes until mixture is bubbling and thickened Watch closely since honey can burn quickly

Finish the Dish:

Return cooked chicken to the pan Stir to coat every piece evenly in the glossy sauce Let everything simmer together for another one minute so flavors meld

Serve it Up:

Spoon sesame chicken over a bed of steaming white rice Add a scoop of green beans Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a perfect finish

Save This

I always look forward to the punch of citrus from the fresh lime zest in this dish It cuts through the richness and makes the flavor addicting My kids love to help sprinkle on the sesame seeds at the end which turns dinner into a fun family ritual

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to three days The sauce thickens more as it chills so add a splash of water when reheating for best texture For meal prep portion rice and veggies separately so nothing gets soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

No chicken breasts Try chicken thighs for juicier bites You can swap in olive oil for avocado oil if needed Broccoli or snap peas work beautifully in place of green beans and if you run out of coconut aminos low sodium soy sauce will work as a sub Look for low sodium to keep the dish healthy

Serving Suggestions

Serve this sesame chicken with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal Roasted broccoli carrots or even cabbage would be delicious on the side Sprinkle with extra fresh lime juice or add chopped scallions for more brightness For lunch leftovers a bed of mixed greens is a quick twist

Cultural Touch

This dish takes its inspiration from classic Chinese American sesame chicken but with a lighter healthy spin Coconut aminos and honey keep it gluten free and lower in sugar yet you still get that nostalgic sweet tangy glaze It is my go to when I want big flavor without feeling weighed down just like the best takeout nights at home

Common Queries

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and offer extra juiciness. Be sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut aminos?

You can use low-sodium soy sauce or Bragg's Liquid Aminos as alternatives to coconut aminos if preferred.

→ Can I make this dish gluten free?

Absolutely. Using coconut aminos ensures a gluten-free option. Also, check that any side sauces or additions are gluten free.

→ What vegetables can I serve with this chicken?

Green beans, broccoli, or your choice of steamed or sautéed vegetables pair well alongside the sesame chicken.

→ How do I prevent the sesame sauce from burning?

Stir the sauce constantly over medium-high heat, and remove from heat once it thickens and bubbles to avoid scorching.