Sesame Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful, Healthier Take on a Classic
If you love Chinese chicken recipes but want a healthier version, this Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe is perfect for you! Lightly coated bite-sized chicken pieces are pan-fried until crispy, then tossed in a delicious homemade sesame sauce with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This dish delivers all the flavors of classic Sesame Chicken without deep frying—making it a great addition to your healthy Asian recipes collection. Serve it with steamed broccoli and rice for a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings |
Ingredients for My Sesame Chicken Recipe
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Steamed broccoli, for serving
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Cornstarch for Crispiness – Lightly coating the chicken in cornstarch before pan-frying creates a crispy texture without deep frying.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches for an even, golden-brown sear.
- Balance the Sauce – Adjust the honey and soy sauce to suit your preference—more honey for sweetness or more soy sauce for a savory depth.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds – Lightly toasting the sesame seeds before sprinkling them on adds an extra layer of nuttiness.
- Garnish for Freshness – Chopped green onions add a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich sauce.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Sesame Chicken
1. Coat the Chicken
Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a bowl and toss them with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sesame Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
4. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Pour the sesame sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve and Garnish
Plate the sesame chicken over cooked white rice and steamed broccoli.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Sesame Chicken
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sesame sauce. |
| Stir-Fried Vegetables | A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for added crunch. |
| Garlic Noodles | A flavorful, garlicky twist that complements the dish beautifully. |
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid freezing, as the cornstarch coating may become soggy when thawed.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
This Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe is high in lean protein from the chicken and packed with antioxidants from garlic and ginger. The sesame seeds provide healthy fats, and the dish is lower in oil than traditional deep-fried versions—making it a great addition to your healthy Chinese recipes collection!
Suggested Drink That Pairs With the Dish
A light, crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with Sesame Chicken. Its citrus and herbal notes balance the sweet-savory flavors of the sesame sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a chilled green tea with honey complements the dish’s Asian-inspired flavors.
Enjoy!
Now that you have all the steps, ingredients, and pro tips, it’s time to cook up this delicious and easy Sesame Chicken recipe! Whether it’s for a romantic dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this dish will impress with its bold flavors and balanced ingredients. Happy cooking! 😊🍗🍚
