Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

Meal prep can often feel like a chore, conjuring images of bland, repetitive dishes that leave you counting down the minutes until your next meal out. But what if I told you meal prep could be exciting, delicious, and something you actually look forward to? That’s precisely what happened when I stumbled upon this Honey Sesame Chicken recipe. My family, always eager taste testers, devoured it with gusto, and it’s been a staple in our weekly rotation ever since. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, the satisfying crunch of the chicken, and the vibrant freshness of the vegetables – this isn’t just another meal prep recipe; it’s a flavor explosion in a bowl! Whether you’re looking for healthy lunches to power through your workday or a fuss-free dinner that satisfies your takeout cravings without the guilt, this Honey Sesame Chicken recipe is your answer. Get ready to transform your meal prep game and say hello to deliciousness, convenience, and a whole lot of flavor!

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential for achieving that perfect Honey Sesame Chicken experience.

Chicken

• ▢ 1/3 cup cornstarch: Cornstarch is the secret weapon to achieving that perfectly crispy, yet tender chicken. It creates a light coating that not only helps the chicken brown beautifully but also locks in moisture, preventing it from drying out during cooking. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for the texture we’re aiming for!
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a foundational savory note to the chicken, infusing it with a subtle but essential aromatic depth. It blends seamlessly with the other spices and complements the sweet and umami flavors in the sauce. Garlic powder is also convenient and evenly distributes flavor compared to fresh garlic in this dry rub.
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt is the flavor enhancer! It seasons the chicken from the inside out, bringing out its natural flavors and balancing the sweetness of the honey in the sauce. Using salt in the dry rub ensures that the chicken isn’t bland, even before it’s coated in the delicious honey sesame glaze.
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon pepper: A touch of black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice that complements the other flavors. It provides a gentle counterpoint to the sweetness and savory notes, adding complexity to the overall taste profile. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its vibrant flavor, but pre-ground pepper works just as well for convenience.
• ▢ 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 3 cups or 1 1/2 lbs): Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show – lean, protein-packed, and readily available. Cubing the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures quick and even cooking and maximizes surface area for crisping and sauce absorption. Aim for roughly 1-inch cubes for optimal cooking and eating experience. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful option, though cooking times might need slight adjustments to ensure they are cooked through.
• ▢ 1/4 cup avocado oil: Avocado oil is our cooking medium of choice due to its high smoke point, which is essential for pan-frying chicken at medium-high heat without it burning or producing unhealthy fumes. Its neutral flavor also allows the chicken and sauce flavors to shine through. You can substitute with other high-smoke point oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil if avocado oil isn’t available.

Sauce

• ▢ 1/3 cup honey: Honey is the heart of the “Honey Sesame” flavor! It provides natural sweetness, a beautiful glaze, and a subtle floral aroma that elevates the sauce. Choose a good quality honey for the best flavor – raw honey or wildflower honey will impart a richer, more complex taste. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can slightly reduce the amount of honey, but it’s essential for the signature flavor.
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon tomato paste: Tomato paste might seem like an unexpected ingredient in a sesame chicken sauce, but it adds a crucial layer of umami depth and richness. It contributes a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the honey and enhances the savory notes of the tamari and ginger. Tomato paste also adds a beautiful reddish hue to the sauce, making it visually appealing.
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce/coconut aminos): Tamari, soy sauce, or coconut aminos provide the essential salty, umami backbone of the sauce. Tamari and soy sauce are fermented soybean sauces that deliver that classic Asian savory flavor. Tamari is often gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Coconut aminos are a soy-free and gluten-free alternative, offering a slightly sweeter and less salty flavor profile. Adjust the amount slightly based on your preference and the saltiness of your chosen option.
• ▢ 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Sesame oil is the aromatic powerhouse that defines the “sesame” aspect of this dish. Its nutty, toasted flavor is incredibly potent and adds a distinct Asian character to the sauce. A little goes a long way, so a teaspoon is usually sufficient to impart its signature flavor. Toasted sesame oil is generally preferred for its more intense flavor compared to light sesame oil.
• ▢ 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Ground ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy, and aromatic element that complements the honey, sesame, and umami flavors. It provides a subtle zing that brightens the sauce and adds complexity. Freshly grated ginger can be used for an even more vibrant flavor, but ground ginger is a convenient and readily available alternative.
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon salt: A touch of salt in the sauce further enhances the overall flavor profile and balances the sweetness of the honey. It ensures that the sauce isn’t just sweet but has a well-rounded, savory depth. Adjust the amount of salt depending on the saltiness of your tamari or soy sauce.
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon sesame seeds: Sesame seeds are not just for garnish; they contribute to the overall sesame flavor and add a delightful textural crunch to the chicken. Toasted sesame seeds are preferred as toasting enhances their nutty flavor and aroma. You can toast them yourself in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, or buy pre-toasted sesame seeds for convenience.

Rice

• ▢ 1 cup jasmine rice: Jasmine rice is the perfect accompaniment to Honey Sesame Chicken due to its fragrant aroma, slightly sticky texture, and delicate flavor. Its fluffy consistency absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully and provides a satisfying base for the meal prep bowls. You can substitute with other rice varieties like basmati rice, brown rice, or even quinoa depending on your preference and dietary needs.
• ▢ 1 teaspoon lime juice: Lime juice adds a bright, zesty note to the rice, cutting through the richness of the sauce and adding a refreshing counterpoint. It elevates the flavor of the rice and prevents it from being bland. Freshly squeezed lime juice is always preferred for its vibrant flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Veggies

• ▢ 2 Tablespoons avocado oil: Similar to cooking the chicken, avocado oil is used for sautéing the vegetables due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. It allows the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through without adding unwanted tastes. You can use other high-smoke point oils like canola or vegetable oil if needed.
• ▢ 1 cup snow peas: Snow peas add a delightful sweetness and a satisfying crisp-tender texture to the meal prep bowls. Their bright green color also adds visual appeal. They cook quickly and retain their crispness even after reheating, making them ideal for meal prep.
• ▢ 2 cups halved Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts provide a hearty, slightly bitter, and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey sesame sauce. Roasting or sautéing them brings out their natural sweetness and mellows their bitterness. Halving them ensures they cook evenly and become tender-crisp.
• ▢ 1 cup shredded carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness, a vibrant orange color, and a slight crunch to the vegetable mix. They cook quickly and provide essential vitamins and nutrients. Pre-shredded carrots are convenient, but you can also shred them yourself using a box grater.
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder is used again to season the vegetables, adding a savory depth that complements their natural flavors and ties them together with the chicken. It enhances the overall flavor profile of the vegetable component.
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt seasons the vegetables, bringing out their natural flavors and balancing the sweetness of the dish. It’s essential for preventing the vegetables from tasting bland.
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice to the vegetables, enhancing their flavor and adding complexity to the overall dish.
• ▢ 1 green onion stalk, chopped (for garnish): Green onion adds a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a vibrant green color as a final garnish. It brightens up the dish and adds a touch of freshness just before serving.

Instructions

Let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep masterpiece. Follow these steps carefully for perfectly cooked chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

1. Prepare the Chicken Coating: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This dry mixture is the key to achieving that crispy exterior on your chicken. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for even coating and flavor distribution. Think of this as your chicken’s flavor armor!
2. Coat the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the cornstarch mixture. Toss the chicken thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated with the dry rub. This ensures maximum crispiness and flavor in every bite. Use your hands to gently massage the mixture into the chicken for even coverage.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough so that when you add a piece of chicken, it sizzles immediately. Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature and steam the chicken instead of frying it, resulting in less crispy chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
4. Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection: Let the chicken pan-fry for 5-8 minutes on one side, allowing it to develop a golden brown crust. Then, flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 5-8 minutes on the other side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness if you are unsure. Once cooked, stir the chicken pieces a bit to break up any clumps and ensure even sauce distribution later.
5. Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. This step is crucial for removing any excess oil and maintaining the crispiness of the chicken. Let the chicken rest on the paper towels while you prepare the sauce and vegetables.
6. Prepare the Honey Sesame Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, in a large bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: honey, tomato paste, tamari (or soy sauce/coconut aminos), sesame oil, ground ginger, and salt. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth and emulsified. Set aside approximately 1/4 cup of the sauce in a separate small container. This reserved sauce will be used for drizzling over the assembled bowls just before serving, adding an extra burst of flavor and moisture.
7. Coat the Chicken in Sauce: Once the excess oil has dripped off the chicken, add the crispy chicken to the large bowl with the honey sesame sauce. Toss and mix gently but thoroughly until each piece of chicken is evenly coated in the luscious sauce. Ensure every nook and cranny is covered for maximum flavor impact.
8. Sauté the Hearty Vegetables: Add more avocado oil to the same skillet you used for the chicken and bring it up to medium-high heat. Add the Brussels sprouts and snow peas to the hot skillet. Sauté these heartier vegetables first as they require longer cooking time to become tender-crisp.
9. Cook the Vegetables to Tender-Crisp: Cook the Brussels sprouts and snow peas for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop a slight char. This process brings out their natural sweetness and mellows their bitterness.
10. Add Carrots and Seasonings: Add the shredded carrots, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and snow peas. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots start to soften and all the vegetables are tender-crisp but still retain a slight bite. Avoid overcooking the vegetables, as you want them to maintain some texture for a satisfying meal prep bowl.
11. Cook the Rice: While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions. This usually involves rinsing the rice, adding water, and simmering until cooked through.
12. Flavor the Rice: Once the rice is cooked and fluffy, stir in the lime juice. Fluff the rice again with a fork to distribute the lime juice evenly. The lime juice adds a refreshing tang that complements the richness of the honey sesame chicken and vegetables.
13. Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls: Now comes the fun part – assembling your delicious and nutritious meal prep bowls! Divide the cooked jasmine rice evenly among 4 meal prep containers. Top the rice with even portions of the sautéed vegetables, followed by the honey sesame chicken.
14. Garnish and Drizzle: Garnish each bowl with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. Finally, drizzle each bowl with the reserved 1/4 cup of honey sesame sauce. This extra drizzle adds moisture and intensifies the flavor just before you enjoy your meal.
15. Enjoy! Your Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls are now ready to be enjoyed! You can eat them immediately or store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for convenient and healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe is not only delicious but also provides a balanced and nutritious meal. Here’s a glimpse into the nutritional profile per serving:

• Servings: 4 Bowls
• Calories: 615 kcal

Please note that these are approximate values and can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This meal is a good source of protein from the chicken, fiber and vitamins from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the rice. It provides a well-rounded and satisfying meal to fuel your day.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this recipe is its efficiency! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep sessions.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

In under an hour, you can have four delicious and healthy meal prep bowls ready to go, saving you time and effort during the week.

How to Serve

These Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Classic Bowl: Served as is, with rice, chicken, and vegetables, this is a complete and satisfying meal. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and it’s ready to enjoy straight from the fridge (or warmed up).
• With Quinoa: For a slightly healthier and higher-protein option, swap out the jasmine rice for cooked quinoa. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a boost of protein and fiber.
• Over Salad Greens: Create a lighter meal by serving the Honey Sesame Chicken and vegetables over a bed of fresh salad greens like romaine lettuce, spinach, or mixed greens. Add a light vinaigrette dressing for extra flavor.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the Honey Sesame Chicken and vegetables in crisp lettuce wraps. Butter lettuce or romaine lettuce leaves work well as wraps. This is a fun and interactive way to enjoy the dish.
• Alongside Noodles: If you prefer noodles over rice, serve the Honey Sesame Chicken and vegetables with cooked egg noodles, ramen noodles, or stir-fried noodles. Toss the noodles with a touch of sesame oil and soy sauce for extra flavor.
• With Different Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, snap peas, and bok choy are all excellent additions or substitutions for the vegetables listed in the recipe.

Additional Tips for Honey Sesame Chicken Perfection

Want to take your Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowls to the next level? Here are five helpful tips for achieving maximum flavor and convenience:

1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): For even more flavorful and tender chicken, consider marinating it for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours before cooking. A simple marinade of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic would work wonders. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and enhances its overall taste.
2. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it in a saucepan for a few minutes after whisking the ingredients together. This will help reduce the sauce and thicken it slightly. Conversely, if you like a thinner sauce, add a tablespoon or two of water to the sauce mixture.
3. Customize the Vegetables: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your vegetables! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. Broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are all great additions. Roasting the vegetables instead of sautéing them can also add a different flavor profile.
4. Toast Sesame Seeds for Extra Flavor: Toasted sesame seeds have a much more intense and nutty flavor than untoasted seeds. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Use toasted sesame seeds in the sauce and for garnish to elevate the sesame flavor.
5. Meal Prep Storage and Reheating: Store the assembled meal prep bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat the chicken and vegetables separately from the rice if possible to maintain texture. Reheat the chicken and vegetables in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Reheat the rice separately in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire bowl in the microwave, but the chicken might lose a bit of its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Ingredients Focus

Let’s address some common questions you might have about the ingredients in this Honey Sesame Chicken recipe:

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative to chicken breasts. They are generally more flavorful and tend to stay moister during cooking. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed in the same way as the breasts. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may require slightly longer cooking time to reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q2: I don’t have tamari, can I use soy sauce? What about coconut aminos?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute soy sauce for tamari. Soy sauce will provide a similar savory, umami flavor. If you are gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce. Coconut aminos are another excellent option, especially if you are soy-free or prefer a slightly sweeter and less salty flavor profile. Adjust the salt in the sauce accordingly if using coconut aminos, as they tend to be less salty than tamari or soy sauce.

Q3: Can I use a different type of honey?
A: While any type of honey will work in this recipe, using a good quality honey will definitely enhance the flavor. Raw honey or wildflower honey will impart a richer, more complex flavor compared to processed honey. You can experiment with different types of honey like clover honey, acacia honey, or buckwheat honey to find your favorite flavor profile.

Q4: Is there a substitute for avocado oil?
A: Yes, avocado oil can be substituted with other high-smoke point oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or even peanut oil. These oils are all suitable for pan-frying and sautéing at medium-high heat. Olive oil is generally not recommended for high-heat cooking as it has a lower smoke point and can impart a strong flavor.

Q5: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
A: While fresh vegetables are generally preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Frozen snow peas, Brussels sprouts, and carrots can be used. However, keep in mind that frozen vegetables tend to release more water during cooking, so you may need to cook them for a bit longer to evaporate the excess moisture and achieve a tender-crisp texture. Ensure the frozen vegetables are thawed slightly before sautéing to ensure even cooking.

This Honey Sesame Chicken Meal Prep Bowl recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a gateway to delicious, healthy, and convenient eating. With its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, crispy chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite and a meal prep staple. So, get cooking, and get ready to enjoy flavorful and stress-free meals throughout your week!

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