Name: Healthy Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil); 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce/tamari); 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup); 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil; 1/2 tsp ground ginger (or fresh grated); 1 tbsp minced garlic; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; Optional: lime zest and juice; 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish; Optional for serving: cooked green beans and white rice (or cauliflower rice)

I’ve created a healthier, homemade version of the classic sesame chicken—no deep frying, fewer carbs, and better-for-you ingredients—delivering the same beloved sweet-salty-tangy flavors with less guilt. Healthy Sesame Chicken

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love that it’s lighter than takeout—no deep frying, lighter sauce, less sodium, and still packed with flavor. I can make it from start to finish in about 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights or quick weekend meals. The flavors are bold, the chicken is tender, and it’s a dish I can feel good about eating.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

I typically use:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
¼ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy or tamari)
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
½ tsp ground ginger (or fresh grated)
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 tbsp rice vinegar
Optional: lime zest and lime juice for brightness
1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
Optional for serving: cooked green beans and white rice

Directions

I cut the chicken into cubes and heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
I sauté until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, I whisk together all of the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
Once the chicken is done, I remove it from the skillet and pour the sauce into the hot pan, letting it bubble and thicken for a few minutes.
I return the chicken to the pan, toss it in the sauce until well coated, then sprinkle with sesame seeds.
I serve it over rice with green beans, or sometimes over cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in roughly 35 minutes.

Variations

I swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs when I want extra tenderness.
I add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
I use maple syrup instead of honey for a slightly different sweetness.
I sometimes toss in steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables.
I replace rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice when I want a lower-carb option.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water, or in the microwave in short bursts, to keep the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken breasts?

I often use boneless skinless chicken thighs, which stay juicier and have a richer flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I simply use coconut aminos or tamari instead of soy sauce.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

I use apple cider vinegar or an extra squeeze of lime juice instead.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

I simmer it longer to reduce, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water before adding the chicken back in.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, I cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge, then reheat just before serving. It also works well for meal prep lunches.

Conclusion

I love how this Healthy Sesame Chicken gives me all the satisfaction of takeout without the heavy oil or excess sugar. It’s quick, flavorful, and adaptable to whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m serving it over rice for a comforting dinner or pairing it with extra vegetables for a lighter meal, it’s always a hit in my kitchen.