Healthy & Easy Sesame Chicken Recipe – Quick, Flavorful & Guilt-Free!

Introduction

If you love Sesame Chicken, but want a version that’s easy to make at home, you’re in the right place! This recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor without the need for deep frying or complicated techniques. With simple ingredients and a few clever cooking tricks, you can prepare a dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Instead of ordering takeout, you’ll learn how to make your own Sesame Chicken in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to enhance flavors, alternative cooking methods, and how to serve it perfectly.

What Makes This Sesame Chicken Recipe Special?

• Simple Ingredients – No need for fancy or hard-to-find items.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Crispy Without Deep Frying – Uses a light pan-frying method.
• Authentic Taste – Just like your favorite takeout, but homemade!

Check out these low-sodium cooking tips to adjust the flavors to your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or avocado oil)

For the Sesame Sauce:

• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

For Garnish:

• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced

A delicious, crispy sesame chicken dish, coated in a sweet-savory sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a beaten egg.
• Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.
• Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
• Coat each piece of chicken with a light flour dusting before placing it in the pan.
• Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
• Remove and set aside on a paper towel.

2. Make the Sesame Sauce

• In a small saucepan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
• Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
• Mix the cornstarch with water and slowly pour into the sauce.
• Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.

3. Combine & Serve

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour the sauce over it.
• Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
• Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes so the sauce absorbs.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top.
• Serve immediately with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Best Ways to Serve Sesame Chicken

Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• With Steamed Rice: Classic white or brown rice pairs perfectly.
• Over Noodles: Serve over stir-fried noodles for a fun twist.
• With Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas make great sides.
• As a Salad: Toss with greens and a light dressing for a fresh alternative.

Check out these alternative sweeteners if you’re looking for sugar substitutes in the sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to change it up? Here are a few easy variations:

• Make it Spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha.
• Use Different Proteins: Try shrimp, tofu, or tempeh instead of chicken.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch instead of flour.
• Try an Air Fryer: Cook the chicken at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking halfway.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze portions in separate containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a little water to keep the sauce smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish without soy sauce?

Yes! Substitute coconut aminos or liquid aminos for a similar flavor.

2. What’s the difference between Sesame Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken?

Sesame Chicken is sweeter and less spicy, while General Tso’s has a spicier, tangier kick.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Use extra cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to adjust thickness.

4. Can I use an air fryer instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Cook the coated chicken pieces at 375°F for 12 minutes.

5. What are the best garnishes for this dish?

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or crushed peanuts.

Final Thoughts

Making Sesame Chicken at home is easier than you think, and the results are even better than takeout! With simple ingredients, easy cooking methods, and flavorful sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re enjoying it with rice, noodles, or veggies, this recipe is versatile and delicious.

Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!