Introduction
This healthy sesame chicken recipe brings all the flavor of your favorite takeout dish but with lighter ingredients and quicker preparation. It’s pan-seared instead of deep-fried, made with a naturally sweetened sesame sauce, and finished with a glossy glaze that clings to every tender piece of chicken. Whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking for the family, this dish is a nutritious, satisfying winner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot starch
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch or arrowroot starch (for slurry)
- 1 tablespoon water (for slurry)
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Toss the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Work in batches if necessary. Set the cooked chicken aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and 1/2 cup water.
In a separate small bowl, mix 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry.
4. Simmer the Sauce
Pour the sauce into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the slurry while stirring. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the chicken back to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat for 1–2 more minutes until everything is coated and hot.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over brown or jasmine rice.
- Pair with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or snow peas.
- Use in lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.
Tips & Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.