Name: Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1/2 inch strips or cubes); 2 Tablespoons cornstarch; 1 pinch salt; 1 pinch pepper; 1 Tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil; Cooked white rice for serving; Small bunch spring onions (scallions) (chopped); 3 Tablespoons soy sauce; 2 Tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon sriracha (add more for more heat); 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated); 1 clove garlic (minced); 2 Tablespoons sesame seeds; 1 Tablespoon sesame oil (optional)

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthier dinner option? Look no further! This Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken is not only easy to whip up but is also packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. With tender chicken coated in a delightful sesame sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something magical about sesame chicken that makes it a favorite for families and gatherings. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with a hint of heat, creates a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, this version is lighter than traditional recipes, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. Whether served over fluffy white rice or enjoyed on its own, this Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken is sure to be a hit at your dining table!

The Essentials

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2 inch strips or cubes
2 Tablespoons cornstarch
1 pinch each salt & pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
Cooked white rice for serving
Small bunch spring onions (scallions), chopped

For the sauce:

3 Tablespoons soy sauce
2 Tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon sriracha, add more for more heat
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
2 Tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon sesame oil, optional

Equipment & Tools

To make your cooking process smooth and efficient, gather the following equipment:

Large skillet or wok: For sautéing the chicken and combining the sauce.
Mixing bowl: To prepare the sauce and toss the chicken with cornstarch.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Chopping board and knife: To cut the chicken into strips or cubes.

From Start to Finish: Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1/2 inch strips or cubes. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. This will give your chicken a lovely texture once cooked.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or sesame oil to the pan, allowing it to warm up. You want the oil to shimmer, which indicates it’s ready for cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Carefully add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sriracha, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame seeds. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and adhere to the chicken.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped spring onions for a fresh crunch and a pop of color.

Year-Round Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Consider these variations:

Add vegetables: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
Swap the protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein option.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Experiment with spices: Add sesame oil or extra sriracha for a bolder flavor.

Author’s Commentary

This Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It’s not just quick to prepare; the flavors are so satisfying that you’ll feel like you’re enjoying takeout from your favorite restaurant right at home. I love how customizable it is, making it easy to incorporate whatever veggies I have on hand. The balance of sweetness from the honey and the kick from the sriracha creates a flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more!

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of oil to keep it moist. Heat until warmed through, and serve over freshly cooked rice.

In Closing

This Healthier 20 Minute Sesame Chicken is not only a quick and easy dinner option but also a delicious way to satisfy your cravings. With tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s sure to impress! You can effortlessly elevate your weeknight dinners with this flavorful, healthier alternative to takeout. Happy cooking!