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Tasty High Protein Sesame Chicken

A healthier twist on classic sesame chicken, packed with protein and flavor, featuring tender chicken, a flavorful sauce, and vibrant green beans.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese-American, Healthy
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.25 lbs chicken, cut into 1-inch bite-sized cubes Use organic for better flavor and nutrition
  • 0.75 tbsp avocado oil (or use olive oil for a different flavor)
  • 1/4 cup coconut aminos Gluten-free soy sauce substitute
  • 1.5 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option) Use raw and local for health benefits
  • 1.25 tbsp sesame oil A little goes a long way for that nutty flavor
  • 0.75 tsp ginger, freshly grated
  • 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar Gives a nice tang
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper To taste
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • 1 tbsp lime juice Fresh is best!
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds For garnish
  • 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes Optional, for a kick
  • 2 cups green beans, trimmed and snapped into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup white rice For serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized cubes for even cooking. Trim the green beans and snap them into 2-inch pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Start cooking the white rice according to package directions.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, lime zest, lime juice, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until cooked through and browned.
  2. Push chicken to the side of the pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger, and let them bloom in the hot oil for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour prepared sauce mixture into the pan, stirring constantly for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken.
  4. Toss in the green beans and stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until beans are tender-crisp.
Serving
  1. Remove from heat, sprinkle sesame seeds over chicken and beans, and serve over fluffy cooked white rice.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can marinate the chicken in the sauce the night before for deeper flavor.