Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe, a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite. Tender chicken is coated in a savory sesame sauce and paired with fresh veggies, making it a perfect balance of flavor and health. This quick and gluten-free dish is packed with protein and irresistible asian-inspired flavors, making it a great choice for families or meal prep enthusiasts.
A Nutritious Twist on a Classic
Sesame chicken has long been a favorite in many households, but traditional recipes can often be heavy and laden with calories. This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe takes that beloved dish and transforms it into a lighter option that retains all the flavor while being nutrient-dense. By incorporating wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables and a balanced marinade, this recipe makes it possible to enjoy a comforting meal without the guilt.
The use of lean chicken breasts provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle health and energy. Coupled with the vibrant colors of the vegetables, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also delivers a punch of vitamins and minerals. It's a perfect example of how healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the standout features of this Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe is its straightforward preparation process. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with rich flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making it a quick-cooking option for those on the go.
In addition to its speed, the one-pan cooking method minimizes cleanup time — a major bonus for anyone who dreads doing the dishes after cooking. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe is not just ideal for immediate consumption; it's also fantastic for meal prep. Preparing a large batch ensures you have delicious and nutritious meals ready to go throughout the week. Simply double the recipe and store individual servings in containers — perfect for lunch or quick dinners when time is tight.
The flavors of sesame chicken only get better as they sit, allowing the marinade to soak into the chicken and vegetables. Just reheat and serve for an effortless meal that remains satisfying and flavorful, making it a smart choice for those wanting to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup snap peas
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more sesame oil if necessary. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
Combine
Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine and heat through.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Marinade Tips
The marinade is what truly elevates this dish. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to customize the flavor to your liking. Swap out honey for agave syrup or use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Adding a splash of chili sauce can offer a delightful kick if a little heat is what you're after.
For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes to an hour. This additional time can enhance the flavor significantly as the chicken absorbs the savory, aromatic qualities of the marinade, leading to a more robust and satisfying dish.
Vegetable Variations
While the recipe calls for broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas, feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or prefer. Other great options include zucchini, asparagus, or cauliflower, all of which can be sautéed to perfection. The key is to choose vegetables that cook quickly, ensuring they retain some crunch and vibrant color.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables not only enhances the meal's visual appeal but also boosts its nutritional profile. More colors on your plate often mean a wider array of nutrients, making each bite more nourishing.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with a multitude of sides. Serve it atop a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a hearty meal, or opt for a refreshing salad for a lighter touch. The nutty flavor of sesame seeds and the crunch of chopped green onions serve as perfect garnishes, enhancing the dish's overall appeal.
For a truly Asian-inspired meal, consider offering a side of steamed dumplings or spring rolls. This way, you can create a full dining experience that will impress family and friends alike, making dinner feel special even on a regular weeknight.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Easy + Healthy Sesame Chicken recipe, a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite. Tender chicken is coated in a savory sesame sauce and paired with fresh veggies, making it a perfect balance of flavor and health. This quick and gluten-free dish is packed with protein and irresistible asian-inspired flavors, making it a great choice for families or meal prep enthusiasts.
Created by: Ruby Lawson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup snap peas
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more sesame oil if necessary. Add the broccoli, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine and heat through.
Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g