Name: Protein Sesame Chicken: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1/4 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for paleo/gluten-free); 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil, for cooking; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder); 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, plus more for garnish; Cooked brown rice or quinoa; Steamed broccoli or other vegetables; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Protein Sesame Chicken: Craving a takeout favorite without the guilt? Look no further! Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken, coated in a glistening, savory-sweet sesame sauce, all while knowing you're fueling your body with a healthy dose of protein. This isn't just another chicken recipe; it's a game-changer.

Sesame chicken, in its various forms, has roots in Chinese-American cuisine, evolving from traditional stir-fries to become the beloved dish we know today. While its exact origins are debated, its popularity is undeniable. The allure lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures: the crispy chicken, the nutty sesame seeds, and the tangy, slightly sweet sauce create an irresistible symphony in your mouth.

What makes this Protein Sesame Chicken recipe so special? We've taken the classic flavors you adore and boosted the protein content, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy professional, or simply someone who loves delicious food, this recipe is for you. It’s quick, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a weeknight staple. Forget ordering in; with this recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Protein Sesame Chicken in the comfort of your own home, knowing exactly what's going into your body. Get ready to experience a healthier, tastier twist on a timeless favorite!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for paleo/gluten-free)
1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil, for cooking

For the Sesame Sauce:

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, plus more for garnish

For Serving (Optional):

Cooked brown rice or quinoa
Steamed broccoli or other vegetables
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is your marinade.
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be!
After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. In a separate bowl, toss the marinated chicken with the cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) until evenly coated. This will help the chicken get nice and crispy when cooked.

Cooking the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil (or avocado oil) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it.
Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and golden brown on all sides. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sesame Sauce:

In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch (or arrowroot powder), and chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the sauce.
Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
Continue to simmer the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth (or vegetable broth) to thin it out. If it's too thin, simmer it for a bit longer.
Stir in the 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds.

Combining Chicken and Sauce:

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sesame sauce.
Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the sauce.
Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Protein Sesame Chicken over cooked brown rice or quinoa.
Add a side of steamed broccoli or your favorite vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Garnish with chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce for a spicier dish. You can also add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
Make it sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey (or maple syrup).
Add vegetables: Stir-fry some chopped bell peppers, onions, or carrots along with the chicken for added nutrients and flavor.
Use different protein: You can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
Air Fryer Option: For a healthier option, you can air fry the chicken instead of pan-frying it. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated and cornstarch-coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Then, proceed with making the sauce as directed and toss the air-fried chicken in the sauce.
Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker. Whisk together all the sauce ingredients and pour over the chicken. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce. Serve as directed.
Freezer Friendly: This dish can be frozen for later use. Allow the cooked chicken and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Sesame Oil Quality: Use high-quality sesame oil for the best flavor. Toasted sesame oil has a richer, more intense flavor than regular sesame oil.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
Protein: 40-50g
Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Fat: 15-25g

This Protein Sesame Chicken is a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It's packed with protein and flavor, and it's easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Protein Sesame Chicken recipe isn't just another weeknight dinner; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and I truly believe you'll be hooked from the very first bite. We've taken a classic takeout favorite and transformed it into a guilt-free, protein-packed powerhouse that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. Forget those greasy, sodium-laden versions – this recipe delivers all the deliciousness without any of the regret. Why is this a must-try? First and foremost, it's the taste. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet honey, nutty sesame oil, and a hint of ginger creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. But beyond the incredible flavor, it's the health benefits that truly set this recipe apart. We're using lean chicken breast, which is a fantastic source of protein, essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. This makes it an ideal meal for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply trying to make better food choices. Plus, by making it at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that you're only using the highest quality, freshest components. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a complete and balanced meal. For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower rice or a side of steamed broccoli. Looking to add some extra veggies? Toss in some sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or even some shredded carrots during the last few minutes of cooking. The possibilities are endless! And speaking of variations, feel free to experiment with different levels of spice. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of sriracha. For a sweeter flavor, increase the amount of honey. You can also substitute the chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. If you're vegetarian or vegan, you can easily adapt this recipe by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Just be sure to press the tofu or tempeh to remove excess water before cooking. I'm so confident that you're going to love this Protein Sesame Chicken recipe. It's quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious – what more could you ask for? It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the best homemade sesame chicken you've ever tasted. I truly believe this recipe will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you've tried this recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? I'm always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you've made this recipe your own. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create delicious and healthy recipes that you'll love. So, don't be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking!