As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this meal will become a go-to favorite that everyone will love, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies too!
Why You’ll Love This Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice
This Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice is a lifesaver for busy evenings. It comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a quick solution for dinner. The flavors are vibrant and satisfying, ensuring your family will ask for seconds. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite veggies, making it a versatile dish for any palate!
Ingredients for Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Diced chicken breast is lean and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice.
- Sesame oil: This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, soy sauce brings a savory depth to the marinade.
- Honey: This natural sweetener balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Rice vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that’s hard to resist.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger gives a warm, spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
- Broccoli florets: These vibrant green veggies are not only nutritious but also add a lovely crunch.
- Bell peppers: Sliced bell peppers bring color and sweetness, making the dish visually appealing.
- Cooked rice: Serve the chicken and veggies over fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the vegetables with your favorites, like snap peas or carrots. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes to the marinade. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dinner on the table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by mixing the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Whisk them together until well combined. The aroma will be heavenly! This marinade is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, add the diced chicken to the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating longer will deepen the flavors. You can even do this step in the morning and let it chill in the fridge until dinner!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be juicy and tender, soaking up all that delicious marinade.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the broccoli and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry them with the chicken for an additional 5-7 minutes. The veggies should be vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp. This step not only adds color but also boosts the nutrition of your meal!
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Finally, serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra crunch and flair. Your Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice is ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Use a non-stick pan for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- Adjust the marinade to your taste; add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Non-stick skillet: Ideal for easy cooking and cleanup; a regular skillet works too.
- Mixing bowl: Use any bowl for marinating; a zip-top bag is a great alternative.
- Whisk or fork: Perfect for mixing the marinade; a spoon can do the job as well.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping chicken and veggies.
Variations of Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist. Marinate and cook as you would the chicken.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free while maintaining that savory flavor.
- Spicy Sesame Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a fiery kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Sweet and Sour Variation: Mix in pineapple chunks during the stir-fry for a sweet and tangy flavor explosion.
- Whole Grain Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions for Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice
- Pair with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Serve with steamed edamame for a protein boost.
- A chilled glass of green tea complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice
Can I make Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu or tempeh works wonderfully. Just marinate and cook them the same way as the chicken for a delicious alternative.
Is this Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors without the gluten!
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade. It’ll give your Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice a delightful heat!
What sides pair well with this dish?
Consider serving it with a light cucumber salad or steamed edamame. These sides complement the flavors beautifully and add extra nutrition to your meal!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy for your family. The vibrant colors and delightful aromas fill your kitchen, making it a warm and inviting space. I love how this dish brings everyone together around the table, sharing laughter and stories. Plus, knowing that I’m serving something healthy makes it all the more rewarding. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. I hope it becomes a cherished favorite in your home, just as it has in mine!
Print
Nutritious Sesame Chicken with Rice: A Delicious Dinner!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A healthy and delicious sesame chicken dish served with rice, perfect for a nutritious dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
- Add the diced chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add the marinated chicken, cooking until browned and cooked through.
- Add broccoli and bell peppers to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Serve the chicken and vegetables over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Feel free to substitute the vegetables with your favorites.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Nutritious Sesame Chicken, Sesame Chicken with Rice, Healthy Dinner Recipe