This Weight Watchers Sesame Chicken is a lightened-up version of the popular takeout dish, offering all the delicious flavors you crave without the extra calories and points. Tender chicken is coated in a savory, slightly sweet sesame sauce, then baked to perfection for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep that fits seamlessly into your Weight Watchers (WW) plan.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or use spray for less fat)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey (or sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit for lower points)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the chicken out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Sesame Sauce:
- While the chicken is baking, in a small saucepan, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, hoisin sauce (if using), water, garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the sauce starts to simmer, whisk in the cornstarch and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. It should be glossy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more honey or soy sauce if needed.
- Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and place it in a large bowl. Pour the sesame sauce over the chicken and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken as a garnish. Serve the sesame chicken over a bed of cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Why You’ll Love Weight Watchers Sesame Chicken:
Lower in Points, Just as Flavorful: By baking the chicken instead of deep frying and using light ingredients for the sauce, this recipe significantly reduces the calories and fat compared to traditional sesame chicken. The end result is a flavorful, satisfying dish with fewer WW points. It’s a great way to indulge in a healthier version of a popular takeout dish without feeling guilty.
Balanced and Filling: The chicken provides lean protein, while the sesame seeds add healthy fats and a nice crunch. Serving it with brown rice adds fiber and makes the dish more filling. If you’re looking to reduce carbs, cauliflower rice is a great alternative that keeps the meal light while still providing a “rice” texture.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this sesame chicken is easy to make in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can even prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time for a quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the flavor of the sauce to your liking. For a spicier version, add some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. You can also adjust the sweetness by using a sugar substitute to fit your WW points even further.
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 28-30g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Net Carbs: 10-12g
- Fat: 12-14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70-80mg
- Sodium: 600-700mg (depending on soy sauce and hoisin sauce)
- WW Points: 5-7 (Blue, Purple, and Green Plans)
Note: Points may vary depending on the specific brands and substitutions you use, such as using a sugar substitute or different type of rice.
This Weight Watchers Sesame Chicken is a delicious, satisfying, and healthier version of the beloved takeout dish. It’s packed with flavor, quick to make, and easy to fit into your WW points system. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this dish will be a hit with everyone in the family. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served with your favorite sides for a complete, balanced meal. Enjoy this healthier, lighter sesame chicken without compromising on taste!
