Go Back
Healthy Sesame Chicken

Better-Than-Takeout Healthy Sesame Chicken

This Better-Than-Takeout Healthy Sesame Chicken is crispy, sticky, sweet, savory, and made in just 20 minutes! A lighter, high-protein version of your favorite takeout classic, cooked at home with simple ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Asian, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2-3 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or vegetable)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • green onions, sliced, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • whisk
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes. Toss chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 2–3 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
  4. Pour sauce into the same hot pan and simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Notes

For the crispiest texture, make sure the chicken is fully coated in cornstarch and the skillet is hot before searing. Arrowroot may be used for a gluten-free or paleo-friendly option. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. The sauce thickens quickly—remove from heat once glossy. Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, noodles, or steamed veggies. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a restaurant-style finish.