Introduction
Craving that irresistible sweet-salty sesame chicken from your favorite takeout spot — but without the heavy oil or sugar overload? This Healthy Sesame Chicken is your perfect fix! 🍯✨
Crispy chicken pieces glazed in a light, sticky sesame sauce, made with wholesome ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
Packed with protein, low in refined sugar, and cooked with minimal oil, this recipe gives you all the flavor of takeout — in a clean, balanced way. Perfect for busy weeknights! 🌿
Ingredients
For 4 Servings
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
For the Sesame Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
- 1 ½ tbsp sesame seeds
For Serving:
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Tip: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or swap for tofu to make it vegetarian.
Timing ⏰
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
➡️ Quick, healthy, and totally satisfying! 🥢
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
In a bowl, combine cubed chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 6–8 minutes).
Remove chicken and set aside.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches for maximum crispiness.
Step 3: Make the Sesame Sauce
In the same pan, add garlic and ginger; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water) and whisk until the sauce thickens and turns glossy.
Step 4: Combine & Toss
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sticky sesame glaze.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and mix until evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve over brown rice or quinoa with steamed broccoli or snap peas.
Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions. 🥢🌱
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
Health Note: This version uses no deep frying and replaces refined sugar with honey — a lighter, cleaner take on the classic favorite!
Variations & Tips 🌿
- Vegan Option: Use crispy tofu instead of chicken.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Swap honey for monk fruit or stevia syrup, and serve with cauliflower rice.
- Extra Crunch: Add roasted cashews or chopped almonds.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ tsp chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Storage & Meal Prep 🧊
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat: Gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store sauce separately and mix before reheating for best texture.
Conclusion
This Healthy Sesame Chicken proves that takeout-style flavor can be totally guilt-free. 🍗🥢
Crispy, saucy, and naturally sweetened — it’s a 25-minute meal that delivers restaurant-worthy taste with clean, wholesome ingredients.
Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or anytime your sesame cravings hit! 🌟
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