Healthy Sesame Chicken

Here’s a recipe for a healthy version of Sesame Chicken. It focuses on lighter ingredients and cooking techniques while still delivering the delicious flavor you love.

Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil (for sautéing)
• For the Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• For Garnish:
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Steamed broccoli or other vegetables (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to tenderize and flavor the chicken.

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

1. Make the Sauce:

• In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds to the pan. Stir to combine.
• Add the cornstarch-water mixture to the sauce and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Combine:

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it in the sauce until the chicken is evenly coated.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a healthier option.

Tips:

• You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Use an air fryer to cook the chicken for a crispy texture without deep frying.

Enjoy your healthy sesame chicken!