Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe

Hey, guys! It’s Hayat here, and today I’m excited to share a healthier version of one of my favorite meals—Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe. If you’re a fan of the takeout classic but want a cleaner, more nutritious option, this recipe has you covered! With lean protein, crunchy veggies, and a flavorful, sesame-infused sauce, this dish offers all the deliciousness of traditional sesame chicken without the guilt.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make this quick and easy recipe, explore the health benefits of each ingredient, and give you some fun tips to customize the dish. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a weeknight dinner idea, Healthy Sesame Chicken is a must-try for those following a balanced diet.

Why Healthy Sesame Chicken Is a Game Changer

Lean Protein for Muscle Health

Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, helping build and repair muscle while keeping you full and satisfied. A 3-ounce serving provides about 26 grams of protein, making it a perfect post-workout meal or quick lunch. Learn more about the benefits of protein-rich foods in this article.

Wholesome Vegetables for Added Nutrients

This recipe is packed with vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, which provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals. These nutrient-dense vegetables promote better digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. For more inspiration on how to incorporate more veggies into your diet, check out our collection of Healthy Vegetable Recipes.

A Lighter Take on a Favorite Sauce

Traditional sesame chicken often comes with a heavy, sugar-laden sauce. In this version, we’ve lightened things up by using a sauce made with tamari, sesame oil, honey, and other wholesome ingredients that are lower in sugar but high in flavor. You’ll get that same bold sesame taste without the extra calories!

Ingredients For Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious and healthy sesame chicken recipe:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

For Serving:

• 1 cup brown rice or quinoa, cooked
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sesame Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the tamari, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sesame sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the healthy sesame chicken over a bed of cooked brown rice or quinoa. Garnish with green onions, extra sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice over the top adds a fresh burst of flavor.

Health Benefits of Healthy Sesame Chicken

Supports Muscle Growth and Recovery

Thanks to the high-protein chicken, this dish is excellent for supporting muscle repair and growth. Incorporating lean proteins like chicken into your diet can help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.

Rich in Antioxidants

Broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants that help protect your body from free radical damage. These antioxidants can reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Balances Blood Sugar

Using honey as a natural sweetener in the sesame sauce helps keep blood sugar levels stable, avoiding the sugar spikes and crashes that come with refined sugar-laden sauces. For more on how to naturally manage blood sugar, check out this helpful guide on blood sugar control.

Customization Tips for Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables you love, such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Make It Spicy: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve this sesame chicken with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Pair your sesame chicken with a light, refreshing salad. A simple cucumber salad with a tangy Asian vinaigrette would complement the flavors nicely. For more salad ideas, explore our Healthy Salad Recipes.

Serve with Rice Noodles

For a change, swap out the rice for some gluten-free rice noodles to make a healthy Asian-inspired noodle bowl.

Cost Breakdown

Ingredient	Cost (Approx.)
Chicken Breasts (4)	$8.00
Vegetables (Mixed)	$3.00
Sesame Seeds	$0.50
Rice or Quinoa (1 cup)	$1.00
Total	$12.50

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	390
Protein	40g
Fiber	6g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fats	12g

Equipment Needed

Here’s a quick list of the essential tools you’ll need to make this Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe:

• Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
• Small Bowl: To mix the sesame sauce ingredients.
• Whisk: To combine the sauce evenly.
• Tongs: For turning the chicken while cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out your ingredients accurately.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the vegetables and dicing the chicken.
• Spatula: To stir the ingredients in the skillet.
• Rice Cooker or Pot: For cooking your brown rice or quinoa.

These tools will make preparing your sesame chicken dish simple and efficient!

FAQs for Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. They’re slightly juicier and can add a richer flavor to the dish. Just ensure you cook them thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Double-check that all other ingredients, such as any store-bought sauces, are also gluten-free.

3. What other vegetables can I add to this recipe? This recipe is super versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for extra crunch and color. Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also cook the entire dish and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

5. Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb? For a low-carb version, you can replace the brown rice with cauliflower rice or a green veggie side like sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli. The sesame chicken will still taste amazing and be just as satisfying!

6. How can I add more spice to the dish? If you love spice, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also garnish the dish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!

7. What should I serve with Healthy Sesame Chicken? This dish pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. A light side salad or steamed greens like broccoli or bok choy also complement the sesame chicken beautifully.

8. Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian? While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily adapt it for a plant-based diet by swapping the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on your protein choice.

9. How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the sesame chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

10. Can I freeze sesame chicken? Yes, you can freeze cooked sesame chicken! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it in a skillet or microwave.

These FAQs should cover common questions about this dish, helping readers feel confident and prepared when making your Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—Healthy Sesame Chicken that’s flavorful, nutritious, and quick to make. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and it’s sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, and give this recipe a try!

Share your results with me by tagging #HealthySesameChicken on social media, and don’t forget to check out more of my Healthy Recipes for more nutritious meal ideas.

Recap Of The Recipe

Ready to Elevate Your Dinner? Try this Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe tonight and delight your taste buds with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients! Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #HealthySesameChicken and tag us @notallrecipes. We can’t wait to see how it turns out for you! Enjoy cooking!