Description
Sesame chicken from China brings a lighter, protein-packed twist to classic takeout favorites. Lean protein and nutty sesame seeds combine for a quick, nutritious meal you can easily enjoy at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsps honey (or maple syrup)
- ¼ cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsps cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsps water (slurry for thickening)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsps toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Preparation: Slice chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then coat lightly with whole wheat flour to create a delicate protective layer.
- Cooking Chicken: Heat sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium temperature. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown, working in batches to maintain optimal heat and prevent overcrowding. Ensure each piece achieves a rich, caramelized exterior.
- Sauce Creation: Combine low-sodium soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly until ingredients form a smooth, integrated sauce with balanced flavor profiles.
- Combining Elements: Introduce cooked chicken into the prepared sauce, gently coating each piece. Simmer mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken and penetrate the chicken, creating a glossy, flavorful coating.
- Finishing Touch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken. Serve immediately alongside steamed brown rice or a vibrant vegetable medley, completing this nutritious and aromatic dish.
Notes
Manage Chicken Texture: Cut chicken pieces uniformly to guarantee even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
Prevent Sauce Burning: Maintain medium-low heat when simmering sauce to avoid caramelization becoming bitter or scorched.
Customize Dietary Needs: Swap honey with maple syrup for vegan version or use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free option.
Control Coating Technique: Use minimal flour coating to keep dish lighter and reduce unnecessary carbohydrate absorption, ensuring healthier preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 323
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 474mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 73mg