Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken: An Incredible 9-Ingredient Recipe

Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is an amazing dish that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition. This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining tender chicken pieces with a delectable sesame sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet. If you’ve been searching for a quick and wholesome meal option that will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health, this is the recipe for you!
Imagine cooking a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients for your body. The combination of protein-packed chicken and healthy ingredients like sesame oil and fresh vegetables makes this sesame chicken a must-try. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for busy weeknights or a casual dinner gathering.
In this article, we’ll explore why you’ll love this recipe, provide all the information you need for preparation, and walk you through the ingredients and cooking steps. Let’s jump into the delicious world of Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken brings convenience and flavor together in a symphony of tastes that everyone can enjoy. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe will capture your heart:
1. Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, which means you won’t need to make a special trip to the grocery store.
2. Quick Preparation: With minimal cooking time, you can have this meal ready in under 30 minutes!
3. Healthy Options: Using lean chicken breast and fresh veggies ensures that you’re serving a nutritious dish.
4. Packed with Flavor: The sesame oil and garlic create an aromatic experience that elevates the dish.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is sure to impress family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings.
6. Versatile Recipe: Easily adjust the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spice levels to suit your taste.
These reasons demonstrate why this dish is loved by both amateur and experienced cooks alike. Each bite delivers a burst of flavors that are not only delicious but also wholesome!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Getting ready to make Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is quick and straightforward. Here’s how your time will break down:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
This fantastic timing makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast yet nutritious meal.

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is simple. Just follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious meal:
1. Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce and honey. Stir until well-mixed and then pour over the chicken.
6. Add Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli and bell peppers. Stir until vegetables start to soften and are coated with sauce, approximately 3-5 minutes.
7. Sprinkle Sesame Seeds: Add sesame seeds to the pan and mix well, allowing them to toast slightly in the heat.
8. Serve Hot: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from the heat and serve immediately.
These steps can guide you through the entire process with ease. Each action brings you closer to a meal that is not only easy to make but also incredibly fulfilling.

How to Serve

To make the most out of your Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Serve Over Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa complements the flavors beautifully and provides additional nutrients.
2. Garnish with Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions offer a fresh touch that enhances the overall presentation.
3. Add a Side Salad: Pair with a simple side salad featuring mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a vibrant meal.
4. Family-Style Presentation: Serve the chicken in a large bowl for a family-style spread, allowing everyone to help themselves.
5. Great for Meal Prep: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep throughout the week.
By following these serving tips, you can elevate your Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken experience, ensuring that it’s not just a meal but a delightful occasion. Enjoy your meal creation journey!
—
This is an enticing recipe designed to be both easy to follow and nourishing. Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is set to be a family favorite, providing satisfaction at the dinner table without compromising health! Enjoy cooking and sharing this wonderful dish with your loved ones!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor of your Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken.
– Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, honey, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
– Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the amount of soy sauce or honey based on your taste preferences. You can also experiment with adding different spices to the sauce.
– Add Spiciness: If you enjoy heat, incorporate some red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce for an extra kick.
– Serve with a Side: Complement the dish with some steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with these variations of Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version that retains all the flavors.
2. Different Veggies: Use snap peas, carrots, or zucchini instead of broccoli and bell peppers. Each vegetable adds its unique flavor and texture.
3. Asian Fusion: Incorporate hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
4. Nuts for Texture: Toss in some chopped cashews or peanuts for added crunch and nutrition.
5. Additional Sauces: Try adding a tablespoon of rice vinegar or lime juice to the sauce for some tanginess.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days while maintaining its flavor.
– Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

You’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare this Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken:
– Large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
– Skillet or wok for cooking
– Measuring spoons for precise ingredient measurements
– Spatula for stirring

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
Is it gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, replace low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add more garlic, red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce to ramp up the heat.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I add nuts to this dish?
Certainly! Chopped almonds or cashews can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that strikes a perfect balance between quick preparation and nutritious ingredients. It’s an ideal option for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet healthy. With its simple ingredients and flavorful sauce, each bite of this dish is a celebration of taste. A real crowd-pleaser, it’s set to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it tonight and discover a new favorite!

Print