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A colorful plate of healthy sesame chicken garnished with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a side of steamed vegetables on a white dinner plate.

Healthy Sesame Chicken: Fast, Flavorful & Family-Friendly Dinner

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Discover the delicious and nutritious Healthy Sesame Chicken that combines quick preparation, bold flavors, and family-friendly appeal. This homemade recipe offers a light yet flavorful twist on classic sesame chicken, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep. Made with wholesome ingredients and simple steps, enjoy a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner the whole family will love.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • Optional: sliced green onions, for garnish
  • Steamed rice or quinoa, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  2. Make the Sesame Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
  4. Prepare the Thickening Mixture: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with water until smooth.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the sesame sauce into the skillet, bring to a gentle simmer. Add cooked chicken and stir to coat. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken and toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Serve your healthy sesame chicken hot over steamed rice or quinoa, garnished with sliced green onions. Pair with vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
  • Use skinless chicken for a healthier option.
  • This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or skillet until warm.
  • Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy variation.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stir-fry
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired
  • Diet: Healthy, Low-fat

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg