Why the Sesame Ginger Chicken Is Great For Burning Fat
While many dishes can claim to help with weight management, I find that Sesame Ginger Chicken stands out due to its balanced ingredients and vibrant flavors.
This dish combines lean protein from chicken, which helps build muscle and boosts metabolism. The ginger adds a zesty kick and may aid digestion, while the sesame seeds offer healthy fats that keep me satisfied.
Plus, the reduced sodium soy sauce keeps it light without sacrificing taste. By enjoying this meal, I feel energized and full, making it easier to stick to my healthy eating goals.
It’s a delicious way to support my weight management journey!
Ingredients of Sesame Ginger Chicken
When it comes to whipping up something delicious and healthy, Sesame Ginger Chicken is a fantastic choice. The combination of zesty ginger, nutty sesame, and succulent chicken creates a dish that’s not only full of flavor but also packed with nutrients.
Plus, it’s pretty easy to make, so you won’t be spending all day in the kitchen. Let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need to get started on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
- 4 (4 ounce) boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- Vegetable oil cooking spray
- Green onion, sliced thin in strips (for garnish)
Now, while these ingredients might seem pretty straightforward, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, if you can find fresh ginger, it really makes a difference in flavor compared to the powdered stuff.
Also, don’t skimp on the sesame seeds; toasting them really brings out their nuttiness and adds a delightful crunch.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. Cooking should be fun, right? So feel free to play around with the ingredients and make this dish your own!
How to Make Sesame Ginger Chicken
Alright, let’s get started on making this delicious Sesame Ginger Chicken. First things first, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. You’ve got your 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger (seriously, don’t go for the powdered stuff if you can help it), 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of reduced sodium soy sauce.
Oh, and of course, you’ll need those four boneless skinless chicken breast halves, which are essential for this dish. The last few items are a vegetable oil cooking spray for grilling, and some green onion, sliced thin for that final touch of color and flavor.
Now, let’s get cooking! Start by combining the toasted sesame seeds, grated ginger, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl. Mix it well until everything is nicely blended. This is where the magic begins. You can practically smell the flavors coming together.
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap. Now, here’s where you can let out some stress—grab a meat mallet or rolling pin and flatten those chicken breasts down to about 1/4 inch thick. It feels oddly satisfying, doesn’t it?
Once your chicken is flattened and ready to go, it’s time to fire up the grill. Coat the grill rack with your vegetable oil cooking spray to prevent sticking—nobody wants a chicken fiasco. Set your grill to medium heat and place the chicken on the rack.
Here’s the fun part: cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side. Don’t forget to keep basting it frequently with that yummy soy sauce mixture you made earlier. It’ll keep the chicken moist and infuse it with flavor.
When it’s done cooking, transfer the chicken to a serving platter, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some sliced green onions on top. Voila! You’ve just made a delightful dish that’ll impress anyone who’s lucky enough to sit at your table.
Sesame Ginger Chicken Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy Sesame Ginger Chicken while keeping it low carb, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
Instead of honey, I use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to cut carbs without sacrificing sweetness. For the soy sauce, I opt for tamari or coconut aminos, which are lower in carbs.
I also swap out the chicken breasts for boneless thighs if I want a juicier option.
Finally, I love adding extra veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrients and crunch—just toss them on the grill alongside the chicken for a delicious twist!
What to Serve with Sesame Ginger Chicken
While planning a meal around Sesame Ginger Chicken, I love to think about the perfect sides that can elevate the dish.
Steamed jasmine rice is a go-to for me; it absorbs the savory sauce beautifully. I also enjoy pairing it with sautéed bok choy or snap peas, adding a crisp texture that complements the chicken.
A fresh cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette brings a revitalizing contrast, too. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll serve some edamame on the side.
These sides not only enhance the meal but create a beautiful presentation that impresses family and friends alike!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To decrease calories in your Sesame Ginger Chicken, I recommend making a few simple adjustments without sacrificing flavor.
First, swap out honey for a sugar-free sweetener to cut down on sugar and calories. You can also use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they’re often juicier and more flavorful with minimal added calories.
Additionally, consider reducing the amount of sesame seeds or using a non-stick pan instead of oil for cooking.
Ultimately, serve it over a bed of steamed veggies instead of rice to keep it light while still being satisfying. Enjoy your healthier version!