Easy Healthy Sesame Chicken

Easy healthy sesame chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious, guilt-free solution for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers all the beloved sweet and savory flavors of your takeout favorite without the heavy oil or processed ingredients, making it a fantastic and wholesome option for the whole family.

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Total Time 30

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: asian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot starch for paleo/grain-free)
1 tablespoon sesame oil plus more for sautéing
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan/refined sugar-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for a touch of heat)
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
2 green onions thinly sliced, for garnish

Equipment

Medium Bowl
Small Bowl
Large skillet or wok
Serving Dish

Method

In a medium bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with cornstarch until lightly coated. This helps create a slightly crispier exterior when cooked and thickens the sauce beautifully.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, 1 tablespoon cornstarch
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sriracha (if using), and chicken broth or water. Set aside.
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce, 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and a little extra cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cornstarch-coated chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the prepared sauce into the same skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the thickened sauce. Toss gently to coat all the chicken pieces evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the delicious sauce.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Transfer the easy healthy sesame chicken to a serving dish. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, 2 green onions

Notes

Storing: Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freezing: For longer storage, let the chicken cool down. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheating: Stovetop is best. Gently warm in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick. Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals. Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.