Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken
A healthier, lighter version of sesame chicken made in just 20 minutes with reduced sugar and healthier cooking methods. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil (or any preferred cooking oil)
2 tbsp sesame oil
3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
1 tbsp sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sesame oil. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and rice vinegar. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the sauce, stirring to thicken it.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat the chicken in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to stick to the chicken.
- Once the chicken is well coated in the sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version. Ensure you press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce for added heat.
- Different Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to make the dish more veggie-packed.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/healthier-20-minute-sesame-chicken/
