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Easy healthy sesame chicken is shown in a close-up featured image highlighting the glistening sauce and sesame seed topping, showcasing a delicious and simple dinner recipe.
Lady Maria

SESAME CHICKEN: SO EASY!

Craving a sweet and savory sesame chicken without the guilt and takeout prices? This recipe provides a delicious and healthy homemade version that's quick, easy, and uses simple ingredients. Enjoy tender chicken coated in a luscious sesame sauce, ready in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch, divided
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, freshly grated
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions
  • Cooked brown rice or quinoa, for serving
  • Steamed broccoli or other vegetables, for serving

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula
  • paper towels
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
  3. Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, remaining 1 tablespoon cornstarch, water, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  7. Pour the prepared sesame sauce into the same skillet.
  8. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
  9. Cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
  10. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce.
  11. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the sauce.
  12. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken.
  13. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  14. Serve immediately over cooked rice or quinoa with your favorite steamed vegetables.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes before using. Adjust the sweetness and spice of the sauce to your liking. This sesame chicken is great for meal prepping; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the sauce is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time. If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce, simmering until thickened.