Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken

The aroma of sizzling chicken mingles with the nutty fragrance of sesame oil, instantly transporting you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and comfort. This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Its simple marinade creates a delightful balance of savory and sweet, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

This recipe is ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious, wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be made ahead of time for meal prep. Leftovers store well in the fridge, making this dish a great option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade adds a burst of flavor that infuses the chicken.
• Cooking the chicken in sesame oil gives it a beautiful golden crust.
• Sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Green onions add a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the dish.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your dish:

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for paleo)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Use coconut aminos for a paleo-friendly option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Honey can be substituted with maple syrup.
• Soy sauce can be swapped with coconut aminos.
• Chicken breast works well with thigh meat.
• Green onions can be replaced with chives.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your sesame chicken.

1. Mix the marinade

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.

2. Marinate the chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

3. Heat the oil

Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.

4. Cook the chicken

Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Cook chicken in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Simmer the sauce

Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

6. Add garnishes

Stir in sesame seeds and green onions.

7. Serve

Serve hot over rice or vegetables.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, chicken can become rubbery.
Reheat: Warm in the skillet for about 5 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor.
• Ensure the skillet is hot enough to get a good sear.
• Monitor cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken.
• Use fresh ingredients for the best taste and aroma.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside steamed broccoli for a nutritious meal.
• Pair with jasmine rice for a complete dinner.
• Enjoy as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.