Healthy sesame chicken done right: unlock the flavor without the calories

Craving the crispy crunch and irresistible flavor of sesame chicken without the guilt of deep-frying? Look no further! This ultimate guide will walk you through a hassle-free and healthier method of creating this beloved Asian delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat the Oil:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

3. Pan-Sear the Chicken:

• Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Make the Sauce:

• In a small saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over low heat, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

• Pour the thickened sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat evenly.

6. Simmer and Thicken:

• Reduce heat to low and simmer for a few more minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is heated through.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a vibrant presentation. Serve with rice or noodles.

Tips for Crispy Chicken:

• Use cornstarch for the best crispy texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken.
• Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.

Variations:

• Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Sweet and Sour Sesame Chicken: Add 1/4 cup pineapple juice to the sauce.
• Orange Sesame Chicken: Substitute orange juice for rice vinegar in the sauce.

Healthier Options:

• Use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Air-fry the chicken instead of pan-searing.
• Use a low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.

Takeaways:

With this step-by-step guide, you can now enjoy crispy and flavorful sesame chicken without the guilt of deep frying. Experiment with different variations and healthier options to customize this dish to your taste preferences.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, thaw the frozen chicken completely before using it.

Q: What can I serve with sesame chicken?
A: Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.

Q: How long can I store sesame chicken?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it before using.

Q: What if my sauce is too thick?
A: Add a little bit of water to thin it out.