Sesame Chicken (One Pan)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sesame Chicken recipe is a flavorful, healthy, and hassle-free meal. The chicken is juicy and tender, cooked in a savory sesame sauce that’s slightly sweet, thanks to the light alternative brown sugar and a bit of tang from the lime. The broccoli adds a crisp, nutritious element, and everything cooks together in one pan, saving you time on cleanup. It’s an ideal recipe for those on low-carb or keto diets, or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter version of takeout-style sesame chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 3 chicken breasts
• ¼ tsp xanthan gum
• 1 ½ tsp water
• ¼ cup light alternative brown sugar swerve
• ¼ cup coconut aminos
• 2 tsp sugar-free barbecue sauce
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp Chinese 5 Spice
• Squeeze of half lime (about 1 tablespoon)
• 5 cups of broccoli
• Garnish with sesame seeds

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix the xanthan gum and water until smooth to create a slurry. Set it aside.
2. Heat the avocado oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them in the pan for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. In the same pan, combine the light brown sugar swerve, coconut aminos, sugar-free barbecue sauce, ground ginger, Chinese 5 spice, and lime juice. Stir to combine.
5. Add the xanthan gum slurry to the sauce and stir well. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. While the sauce is simmering, steam or blanch the broccoli in a separate pot or microwave until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
7. Once the sauce has thickened, return the chicken breasts to the pan and coat them with the sauce. Let them simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to absorb the flavors.
8. Add the cooked broccoli to the pan, tossing it gently in the sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
9. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for added color and texture.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less of the sugar alternative to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If needed, add a little water or chicken broth to rehydrate the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular soy sauce instead of coconut aminos?

Yes, regular soy sauce can be used in place of coconut aminos, but keep in mind that soy sauce has a stronger, saltier flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.

3. Can I skip the xanthan gum?

The xanthan gum helps to thicken the sauce, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or use a cornstarch slurry instead.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce while it’s simmering.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to add the broccoli just before serving to maintain its texture.

6. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to steam or blanch it before adding it to the pan.

7. Can I use a different sweetener instead of Swerve?

You can use other sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol if you prefer. Adjust the amount according to your sweetness preference.

8. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and uses sugar alternatives, making it suitable for a keto or low-carb diet.

9. Can I serve this dish with rice or noodles?

While this dish is low-carb as is, you can serve it with cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative to traditional rice or noodles.

10. How do I make sure the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

This one-pan Sesame Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that combines all the best parts of Asian-inspired cuisine. With a savory sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, it’s the perfect dish for anyone looking for a balanced and satisfying dinner. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s a winner for busy nights!

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