Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice

Healthy Sesame Chicken with green beans and rice – a quick, easy, and delicious dinner made with lean chicken breast, coconut aminos, and a flavorful sesame garlic sauce. This low-carb, gluten-free recipe is packed with protein and perfect for a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes. With tips for customizing flavors, substitutions, and serving ideas, this sesame chicken is ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner. Enjoy the taste of classic sesame chicken with a healthy twist!

Ingredients

• Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Rice: 1 cup cooked white rice
• Cooking Oil: 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
• Green Beans: 2 cups, steamed

For the Sauce

• Coconut Aminos: 1/4 cup
• Honey: 1 tablespoon
• Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Ground Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon
• Garlic: 1 tablespoon, minced
• Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Lime Zest: 1 teaspoon (from 1 lime)
• Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon (from 1 lime)
• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat the avocado oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and sauté until browned on all sides, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, ground ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, black pepper, lime zest, and lime juice in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Combine Sauce and Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside. Pour the sauce mixture into the same pan, cooking over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly as it thickens and begins to bubble. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
4. Add Chicken to Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated.
5. Serve: Divide the cooked rice and steamed green beans onto plates, top with saucy sesame chicken, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Healthy Sesame Chicken is a delicious, lighter twist on classic sesame chicken. Made with nutrient-rich ingredients like coconut aminos, honey, and avocado oil, it has all the sweet and savory flavors you love but without heavy oils or refined sugars. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy, wholesome meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Tips

• Be sure to whisk the sauce continuously as it thickens to avoid burning.
• Use fresh lime zest and juice for the best flavor.
• Cook the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can prevent browning.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.
• Use tamari or low-sodium soy sauce if coconut aminos aren’t available.
• Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes, just follow the package directions to steam them before adding them to the dish.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use coconut aminos or tamari instead of soy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Healthy Sesame Chicken over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced, nutrient-packed meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!