Are you on the hunt for a wholesome yet flavorful dinner option? Look no further than Healthy Sesame Chicken! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, crisp green beans, and a delectable sauce, all served over fluffy white rice.
The beauty of Healthy Sesame Chicken lies not only in its taste but also in its seasonal flexibility. Whether you’re enjoying the vibrant greens of spring or the hearty flavors of autumn, this dish fits seamlessly into any seasonal table.
Readers everywhere will love this recipe for its simplicity and the pleasure it brings to the dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to whip together on a busy weeknight, making it a favorite for families of all sizes.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can make Healthy Sesame Chicken in no time.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for hectic evenings.
- Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, this homemade meal is easier on your wallet than takeout.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish the whole family will enjoy, making dinner stress-free and enjoyable.
- Health Benefits: Packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from green beans, this dish supports a balanced diet while satisfying your taste buds.
What sets Healthy Sesame Chicken apart is its unique combination of flavors and textures. You’ll savor the tender chicken, crisp green beans, and savory sauce that comes together effortlessly for a winning meal.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this delicious and nutritious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
- 2 cups green beans
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Possible Substitutes
- Avocado Oil: You can use olive oil or sesame oil as a substitute.
- Coconut Aminos: Soy sauce or tamari can be used as an alternative.
- Honey: Maple syrup can work if you need a vegan option.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute if you don’t have rice wine vinegar.
Step-by-Step Directions
Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. This will help achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
Add the Green Beans: Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes. You want the beans to be tender-crisp, retaining some bite.
Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice wine vinegar, black pepper, lime zest, and lime juice until combined.
Combine the Elements: Pour the sauce over the chicken and green beans in the pan. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
Let it Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve it Up: Serve over cooked white rice and garnish with sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
Extra Cooking Tips Inside Steps
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking it.
- Ensure the pan is properly preheated to achieve nice browning on the chicken.
- If you prefer a little heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Expert Tips
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken to avoid drying it out; cooking until just done is key.
- Precision with Ingredients: Accurate measuring, especially for the sauce ingredients, ensures balance.
Extra Cooking/Baking Hacks
- Prep your ingredients in advance to speed up the cooking process.
- Use frozen green beans for convenient cooking without any prep work.
Time-Saving Tricks
- You can cook the rice while preparing the chicken and green beans to save time.
How to Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken
Serving Suggestions
- This dish is excellent for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.
- You can pair it with a simple Asian-inspired salad for a balanced meal.
Drinks or Side Dishes That Match Well
- Serve with iced green tea or a light white wine for an elegant pairing.
- A side of steamed broccoli or cauliflower would complement the dish nicely.
How to Store Healthy Sesame Chicken
Counter, Fridge, Freezer Storage
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the prepared dish for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
- To reheat, thaw your frozen Healthy Sesame Chicken overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Variations of Healthy Sesame Chicken
Flavor Swaps
- Try adding a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a twist.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Seasonal Twists
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini in the summer or carrots in the winter for freshness year-round.
Healthy Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil Can substitute with olive oil or sesame oil.
- 2 cups green beans Frozen green beans can be used for convenience.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos Can substitute with soy sauce or tamari.
- 1 tablespoon honey Maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Toss in the green beans and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- In a bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice wine vinegar, black pepper, lime zest, and lime juice.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and green beans. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Allow the dish to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly, stirring occasionally.
- Serve over cooked white rice and garnish with sesame seeds.
Notes
FAQs About Healthy Sesame Chicken
Can I freeze Healthy Sesame Chicken?
- Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container.
Can I make Healthy Sesame Chicken ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of avocado oil in Healthy Sesame Chicken?
- Olive oil or sesame oil are great substitutes.
Can I use frozen green beans?
- Yes, frozen green beans can be used and are often more convenient.
Is Healthy Sesame Chicken gluten-free?
- Yes, using coconut aminos makes it gluten-free. Just ensure all other ingredients are labeled as such.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Healthy Sesame Chicken
- Under-Seasoning: Make sure to taste as you go; this will elevate the dish.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Stick to the ingredient amounts to avoid a soggy dish.
Nutritional Information of Healthy Sesame Chicken (Optional)
For a rough estimate, a serving of Healthy Sesame Chicken has approximately 400 calories, packed with protein and flavor while being lower in fat than traditional versions.
Pairing Ideas: What Goes Well With Healthy Sesame Chicken
- For a well-rounded meal, consider serving alongside a crisp cucumber salad or steamed dumplings.
- Pair with a glass of light, chilled sake or refreshing homemade lemonade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Healthy Sesame Chicken is a fantastic meal option that combines health, flavor, and ease of preparation. With its budget-friendly ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that delights the whole family. So why not try this Healthy Sesame Chicken today and share it with family and friends? You won’t be disappointed!