Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken

Name: Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Chopped green onions; Extra sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Savor the delightful taste of this Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe that combines tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful sesame sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a wholesome family dinner. Serve it over steamed rice or stir-fried veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-11-27T16:58:23.618Z

This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it's a delightful culinary experience that melds flavors and textures in one dish.

The Benefits of Chicken

Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for healthy meals. Not only does it help in muscle building and repair, but it also keeps you feeling full and satisfied for longer. This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken incorporates tender, juicy chicken breast, ensuring that you get the necessary nutrients without excess fat. Additionally, chicken is versatile and can be paired with a variety of flavors and ingredients, making it a staple in many households.

Moreover, chicken provides essential vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in B vitamins, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism, supporting your body's ability to convert food into energy. Including chicken in your diet can help boost your immunity and improve your overall health, especially when combined with nutrient-rich ingredients, like the sesame sauce in this recipe.

The Power of Sesame

Sesame seeds are truly a powerhouse ingredient, offering a unique flavor while delivering numerous health benefits. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Incorporating sesame seeds into your meals can help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health, making this sesame chicken not only delicious but also heart-healthy.

Moreover, the flavor of sesame seeds is distinctively nutty and enhances the overall taste of dishes. They elevate the taste profile of the sesame chicken, providing a delightful contrast to the flavors of the chicken and sauce. Whether used in cooking or as a garnish, sesame seeds add texture and beauty to your meal, satisfying both the palate and the eye.

Perfect Pairings

Serving this Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken over steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables creates a balanced meal that combines carbohydrates, proteins, and plenty of vitamins. Steamed rice is a classic pairing, as it complements the savory flavors of the sesame sauce, allowing each bite to be flavorful and filling. For a lighter option, stir-fried veggies such as bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini not only add color but boost the nutritional value of your meal.

If you're looking to amplify the flavor even further, consider adding a side of Asian-inspired slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame vinaigrette. This fresh and crunchy side salad balances the dish beautifully and adds a refreshing contrast to the warm sesame chicken, ensuring that your meal is not just wholesome but also a variety of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated

For Garnish

Chopped green onions
Extra sesame seeds

Combine all ingredients and prepare for cooking.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, sesame seeds, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the marinated chicken until it's golden and cooked through, around 8-10 minutes.

Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve

Serve the sesame chicken over steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional sesame seeds.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers of this Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, making it an easy meal prep option for busy days. The flavors often meld even more beautifully after a day in the fridge, making for a delightful next-day lunch.

Freezing leftovers is also an option if you want to extend the shelf life of your sesame chicken. Portion it into individual servings before freezing, ensuring that meals are ready to go when you need them. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly for optimal taste and texture.

Variations and Adjustments

This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe is remarkably versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. For a gluten-free option, use tamari in place of soy sauce; it provides the same depth of flavor without gluten. If you enjoy spicy dishes, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a kick. Adjusting the level of sweetness is also easy—if you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey in the sauce.

Moreover, feel free to experiment with vegetables! Adding snap peas, carrots, or bok choy to the skillet while cooking for a one-pan meal can make this dish even more colorful and nutritious. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this recipe multiple times without it feeling repetitive.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken, consider creating a complete feast by including a variety of side dishes. A side of rainbow quinoa or brown rice offers whole grains to complement the meal, while steamed edamame provides protein and fiber. A fresh cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar can also serve as a bright and zesty accompaniment.

For a shared family dinner, consider serving the sesame chicken family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves. This not only enhances the dining experience but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere at the table, encouraging conversation and enjoyment of the meal together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use tofu or shrimp for a different option.