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A vibrant plate of Healthy Sesame Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, served alongside steamed vegetables on a clean white plate.

Healthy Sesame Chicken: Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Meal

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Discover a quick and healthy sesame chicken recipe that is family-friendly, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sesame sauce for a nutritious and delicious meal you can prepare in minutes. Ideal for those seeking a wholesome dinner without sacrificing taste or convenience.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining sesame oil. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Return chicken to the skillet along with broccoli and bell peppers. Toss to coat in the sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender but crisp.
  6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and garnish with green onions if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice.

Notes

  • Use thinly sliced chicken for quicker cooking and optimal texture.
  • Preparing garlic and ginger ahead of time can streamline meal prep.
  • Toast sesame seeds until golden for enhanced flavor.
  • Meal prepping ingredients saves time during busy weekdays.
  • Adjust honey and soy sauce to taste for preferred sweetness and saltiness.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free option available by using tamari

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 330 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg