Description
Sesame chicken brings a delightful twist to classic Asian cuisine, offering a nutritious spin on a beloved dish. Packed with lean protein and aromatic sesame seeds, you’ll savor each bite of this guilt-free culinary creation.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Thickening Agents:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
Oils and Cooking Liquids:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- ¼ cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Sweeteners:
- 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
Aromatics:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into uniform, bite-sized morsels to ensure consistent cooking and easy consumption. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then delicately dust with whole wheat flour, creating a thin, protective coating.
- Warm a non-stick skillet over medium heat, introducing a whisper of sesame oil. Carefully arrange chicken pieces, allowing each to transform into a golden-hued delicacy. Cook methodically, potentially in sequential batches to prevent overcrowding and maintain optimal heat distribution.
- Craft a harmonious sauce by blending low-sodium soy sauce, honey’s natural sweetness, aromatic minced garlic, and zesty grated ginger. Whisk ingredients until they meld into a cohesive mixture.
- Transfer golden chicken pieces into the sauce, gently tumbling to ensure comprehensive coverage. Allow the combination to simmer briefly, permitting the sauce to subtly thicken and caramelize around the chicken.
- Elevate the dish’s sensory experience by generously scattering toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions, introducing textural contrast and vibrant flavor dimensions. Present atop steamed brown rice or a colorful vegetable medley, transforming a simple protein into a nutritionally balanced culinary creation.
Notes
- Slice chicken uniformly to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Use whole wheat flour sparingly to create a light, crispy coating without adding excessive calories.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve perfect golden-brown chicken with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Select low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake while maintaining rich umami flavor in the sauce.
- Toast sesame seeds briefly in a dry skillet to enhance their nutty aroma and deepen their flavor profile.
- Experiment with alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave for different dietary preferences.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and ensure a quick, stress-free meal preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg