If you are craving a dish that is both nourishing and bursting with flavor, this Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken pieces glazed in a luscious sesame-honey sauce, crisp-tender green beans, and perfectly fluffy jasmine rice, creating a harmonious meal that feels comforting yet light. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and savory notes that make eating healthy a true delight. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or simply want a quick, wholesome dinner, this recipe is a winner you’ll come back to time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding rich, nutty sesame flavor, a touch of sweetness from honey, or a burst of freshness from green beans. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand to nail this delicious, wholesome meal.
- 1 pound chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and perfect sauce coverage.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a deep, toasty aroma that defines the dish’s signature flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the sesame oil and helps in sautéing garlic and ginger without overpowering.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with pungent, savory goodness.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Adds a zesty freshness that brightens the entire recipe.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Provides umami depth without too much salt.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Introduces the perfect hint of natural sweetness to balance the soy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a subtle tang to brighten the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Toasted and sprinkled on top for crunch and visual appeal.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps to blend the sauce ingredients smoothly and create a glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce into a luscious glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and vibrant color.
- 1 cup jasmine rice: The fragrant base that soaks up every drop of sauce.
- 2 cups water (for rice): Essential for perfectly steamed jasmine rice.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for rice): Enhances the rice with a subtle nutty undertone.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for rice): Brings out the natural flavors during cooking.
How to Make Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
Start by heating one tablespoon of sesame oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. This step is crucial for building the base flavor, as the oil infuses the chicken with that irresistible nutty aroma. Add the bite-sized chicken breast pieces to the pan and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece is a golden brown and cooked through. This forms a lovely crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
Step 2: Preparing the Aromatics
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. In the same pan, add one tablespoon of olive oil. This keeps the flavor layers distinct and prevents the garlic and ginger from burning. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with their fragrant perfume. This step brings brightness and depth that complements the sesame chicken beautifully.
Step 3: Crafting the Sauce
Next, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. This combination is the magic behind the thick, shiny glaze that coats the chicken. Pour this mixture into the pan with the garlic and ginger, stirring frequently. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer and thicken, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll notice it becoming glossy and luscious, ready to envelop your chicken pieces in flavor.
Step 4: Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce pan, tossing them thoroughly until every bite is deliciously coated. Don’t forget to sprinkle the sesame seeds over the chicken now, stirring once more to distribute the seeds evenly. These little seeds add a delicate crunch and a beautiful finishing touch that makes this dish feel extra special.
Step 5: Cooking the Jasmine Rice
While the chicken simmers, prepare the rice. In a separate pot, combine two cups of water, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring this to a boil over medium-high heat. When bubbling, add the jasmine rice, stir briefly, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let it steam for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will cook gently, absorbing flavors and becoming perfectly fluffy.
Step 6: Steaming the Green Beans
As the rice finishes, steam your green beans to retain their crisp texture and vibrant green color. Boil a pot of water, then add the trimmed green beans and cook them for just 3 to 4 minutes until they turn tender-crisp. Drain immediately to avoid overcooking. These green beans add a refreshing contrast and a pop of color that makes this meal as pretty as it is tasty.
Step 7: Putting It All Together
Finally, plate the luscious Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe by placing the steaming jasmine rice alongside the glazed sesame chicken and the tender green beans. This harmonious combination offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors all in one vibrant, healthy plate.
How to Serve Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To take your serving to the next level, try sprinkling some extra toasted sesame seeds or fresh chopped green onions on top of the chicken. A few red chili flakes can also add a touch of gentle heat. These garnishes not only elevate the dish’s presentation but also add layers of texture and flavor that will wow your guests or family.
Side Dishes
Though this Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe is a complete meal, pairing it with a light cucumber salad or a bowl of miso soup complements the flavors wonderfully. Simple steamed dumplings or vegetable spring rolls can also make great sides if you’re aiming for an Asian-inspired feast that feels wholesome yet indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and green beans over a bed of cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option without sacrificing taste. Alternatively, wrap the glazed chicken and green beans in lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld bite that’s perfect for casual dinners or lunchboxes. These creative presentations keep things exciting and perfect for sharing with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce separately from the rice and green beans in airtight containers to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. However, it’s best to freeze the rice and green beans separately or prepare fresh green beans when reheating to retain their vibrant texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently over low heat on the stove to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or burning. Microwave reheating works fine too; just add a splash of water to the chicken and cover it to maintain moisture. Reheat the rice and green beans separately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?
Yes! While jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrant aroma and light texture, you can substitute with basmati rice or even brown rice. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the rice is tender.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely. This dish stores well in the fridge and can be portioned into meal prep containers for quick, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the low-sodium soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets without losing flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh ginger on hand?
Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh, but use about half the amount since it is more concentrated. Fresh ginger provides the best flavor, though.
How do I keep the green beans crisp and bright green?
Quickly steaming the green beans and immediately draining them helps maintain their vibrant color and crunch. Avoid overcooking by monitoring closely and removing them as soon as they are tender-crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—nourishing, vibrant, and full of soul. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, the delightful flavors and balanced textures make it a go-to meal you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfying comfort of wholesome cooking made simple and delicious!
Print
Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Sesame Chicken with Green Beans and Rice is a flavorful, nutritious meal featuring tender chicken breast pieces coated in a tangy sesame sauce, served alongside perfectly steamed green beans and fragrant jasmine rice. The dish combines a balance of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors with a delightful crunch from toasted sesame seeds, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Green Beans
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed
Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water (for rice)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for rice)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for rice)
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook chicken: Add the chicken breast pieces to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the pan and place it on a plate to rest.
- Add olive oil: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to sauté aromatics.
- Sauté garlic and ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
- Mix sauce ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth.
- Add sauce to pan: Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pan with the garlic and ginger.
- Simmer sauce: Stir the sauce and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken to a glaze consistency.
- Combine chicken with sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it in the thickened sauce until evenly coated.
- Add sesame seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken, stirring gently to combine for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare rice water: In a separate pot, combine 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook rice: Once boiling, add jasmine rice, stir briefly, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is fully cooked and water absorbed.
- Steam green beans: While the rice cooks, bring another pot of water to a boil, add trimmed green beans, and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Drain green beans: Remove green beans from boiling water and drain well. Set aside.
- Serve the dish: Plate the sesame chicken alongside jasmine rice and steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt content in the dish.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the sesame seeds before adding them.
- Make sure not to overcook green beans; they should remain crisp and vibrant green.
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option, but the recipe is not fully vegan due to chicken.
- Leftover chicken and rice can be refrigerated and reheated within 2 days for best quality.
