A whiff of sesame wafts through the kitchen, signaling something delicious is on the horizon. This Easy High Protein Sesame Chicken is a flavorful dish that takes just about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The balance of honey and soy sauce creates a sweet and savory glaze that coats juicy chicken perfectly.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prep for lunch, or impressing guests. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken cooked to perfection that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
- A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors from honey and soy sauce.
- Packed with protein, making it a wholesome meal option.
- A satisfying crunch from toasted sesame seeds adds texture to every bite.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients for this delicious meal:
For the Marinade
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
For Serving
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
Honey can be swapped with maple syrup.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breast can be substituted with thighs.
- Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Maple syrup can replace honey in the marinade.
- Yellow onion can be used in place of green onion.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for a tasty meal.
1. Combine ingredients.
In a large bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger to make the marinade.
2. Marinate the chicken.
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat the skillet.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken.
4. Cook the chicken.
Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Toss with sesame seeds.
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and stir to coat.
6. Garnish and serve.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, the texture may change.
Reheat: microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade for maximum flavor.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows the chicken to brown properly.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking for juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition.
- Enjoy it as a filling in a wrap with fresh greens.
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