Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken: #1 Healthy Recipe

Name: Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 chicken, breast ((skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces)); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, ground; 1/3 cup honey, raw; 1/4 cup tamari, gluten-free ((or coconut aminos)); 2 tablespoons vinegar, rice wine; 1/2 cup orange, juice ((from about 2 oranges)); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds ((plus more for garnish)); 1 teaspoon ginger, fresh ((grated)); 2 cloves garlic, fresh ((minced)); 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder ((mixed with 1 tablespoon water)); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes ((optional, for a slight kick)); 2 onions, green ((sliced, for garnish))

This gluten-free honey sesame chicken is a gut-friendly, naturally sweetened version of the takeout classic. Instead of deep frying, we use a light pan-sear method with olive oil for a healthier alternative.

The homemade honey sesame sauce is naturally sweetened with honey and packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, garlic, and sesame seeds. Plus, we swap out traditional soy sauce for gluten-free tamari to keep it fully gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken: A Healthy Recipe

🍯 Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken (Gut-Healthy & Naturally Sweetened)

This homemade honey sesame chicken is a quick and easy meal that packs a punch of flavor while nourishing your gut. If you love bold, citrusy flavors, you might also enjoy my healthy orange chicken recipe, which offers a tangy twist on a takeout classic.

And for a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich side, pair this dish with my sautéed broccoli rabe for an extra boost of gut-friendly greens. Unlike traditional takeout versions that are often high in refined sugars and unhealthy oils, this recipe uses clean ingredients to provide the same great taste without compromising on health.

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💖 Why You'll Love This Healthy Sesame Chicken Recipe?

Gut-Friendly Ingredients - Supports digestion and gut health with ginger, garlic, and sesame.
Naturally Sweetened - Uses honey for a wholesome, refined sugar-free sweetness.
Easy to Make - A simple one-pan dish that comes together quickly.
Takeout Alternative - A healthier version of classic takeout honey sesame chicken.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free - Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

🥣 Ingredients Honey Sesame Chicken

This healthy sesame chicken recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and come together in no time. Let's take a look at what you'll need to make this delicious dish.

Chicken Breast - I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breasts. a great source of protein, but rich in vitamins and minerals. Chicken is also a great source of B vitamins, which help in energy production, as well as help form red blood cells in the body.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil - I like extra virgin olive oil, but you can swap with avocado oil.
Arrowroot powder - This gives this easy sesame chicken recipe that crunchy texture without actually having to fry the chicken.
Sea Salt - Sea salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black Pepper - Ground black pepper adds a tasty slight spicy flavor that actually enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

For the Honey Sesame Sauce:

Honey - This is a delicious sweetener of choice with many antioxidants to support healthy immune function. You can also swap it for your favorite sweetener, like maple syrup.
Gluten-Free Tamari - To ensure you make a gluten-free recipe, use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
Rice Wine Vinegar - A splash of this acidic ingredient is another key ingredient, so don't leave this out.
Orange Juice - Fresh is always best, but in a pinch you could use your typical store-bought orange juice.
Sesame Oil - This is the perfect nutty tasting oil for cooking Asian inspired dishes.
Fresh Ginger - This spicy root also has anti-inflammatory properties. Shown to lower inflammation from type-2 diabetes and cancer.
Garlic - Fresh minced garlic is perfect to evenly distribute that delicious garlic flavor.
Arrowroot Powder - This is a thickening agent added to help create that glossy sauce for the chicken. You can always swap with cornstarch if you prefer.
Optional Ingredients - Red pepper flakes for a slight kick and green onions for garnish.

See the recipe card for quantities.

Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken: #1 Healthy Recipe

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients.

Step 2: Coat and cook the chicken. Toss the chicken pieces with dry arrowroot powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Make the honey sesame sauce.

Combine the sauce and chicken. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes

Step 4: Combine the sauce and chicken. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.

Garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions

Step 5: Garnish with extra sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and sliced green onions.

Serve with jasmine rice cauliflower rice or broccolli

Step 6: Serve with jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or broccoli.

👩‍🍳 Directions For This Easy Healthy Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

Making this healthy honey sesame chicken is a breeze! With just a few simple steps, you'll have an easy takeout dinner recipe right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Coat & Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with arrowroot powder, salt, and pepper until lightly coated.

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the honey, tamari, rice wine vinegar, orange juice, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the arrowroot slurry and let the sauce thicken for about 1-2 minutes. Mix in the sesame seeds, stirring well.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 more minutes, then remove from heat. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

🩺 Health Benefits of This Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

This recipe isn't just delicious - it's designed to support gut health and overall well-being.

Ginger & Garlic - Help with digestion, reduce inflammation, and support gut microbiome balance.
Honey - A natural prebiotic that feeds good gut bacteria while adding natural sweetness.
Sesame Seeds and Sesame Oil - Rich in fiber and healthy fats, and minerals that that promote digestive health and support hormone balance.
Olive Oil - A gut-friendly fat that supports a healthy gut lining.

🧡 Learn How to Make Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

Learn how easy it is to make an easy chicken and honey sesame recipe using chicken breasts that tastes like your favorite takeout version.

📖 Recipe

Gluten-Free Honey Sesame Chicken

Laura Villanueva

This gluten-free honey sesame chicken is a gut-friendly, naturally sweetened version of the takeout classic.

If you like this recipe, please leave a star rating in the comments section of this post to help other followers in our EYN community!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Dinner

Cuisine Chinese

Servings

Calories 372 kcal

Equipment

1 Large Pan
1 Medium Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 chicken, breast (skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper, ground

For the Honey Sesame Sauce:

⅓ cup honey, raw
¼ cup tamari, gluten-free (or coconut aminos)
2 tablespoons vinegar, rice wine
½ cup orange, juice (from about 2 oranges)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
1 teaspoon ginger, fresh (grated)
2 cloves garlic, fresh (minced)
1 teaspoon arrowroot powder (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)

Optional Toppings:

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
2 onions, green (sliced, for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Coat & Cook the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with arrowroot powder, salt, and pepper until lightly coated.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce
In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the honey, tamari, rice wine vinegar, orange juice, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
Bring to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in the arrowroot slurry and let the sauce thicken for about 1-2 minutes.
Mix in the sesame seeds, stirring well.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
Cook for 1-2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
Garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Video

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Nutrition

Serving: 1 ServingCalories: 372kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 29gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 73mgSodium: 1170mgPotassium: 366mgFiber: 1gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 178IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. Modify as needed and enjoy.

Keyword easy sesame chicken, easy takeout recipe, healthy sesame chicken, honey sesame chicken, sesame honey chicken

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⭐️ Pro Nutrition Tip

Pair this meal with steamed broccoli, garlic broccoli rabe, or bok choy for an extra dose of gut-friendly fiber and prebiotics to nourish your microbiome.

💙 Substitutions

Making a healthy honey sesame chicken recipe is a personal preference in terms of dietary needs. Check out some easy substitutions and variations to customize this recipe to your liking.

Chicken Thighs Option - If you prefer a juicier texture, swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
Vegan Option - Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
Soy-Free - Swap tamari for coconut aminos.
Nut-Free - Omit sesame seeds and sesame oil if you have an allergy.
Citrus-Free - Replace orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist

🥚 Healthy Food Swaps Guide

Check out my free Healthy Food Swaps Guide for how to swap out different foods if you suffer from food allergies, sensitivities, intolerances, or simply an aversion.

🍴 Variations

Here are a few variations for my healthy version of sesame honey chicken recipe.

Lower Sugar - Reduce honey slightly or or replace with a touch of monk fruit sweetener.
Extra Crunch - Toss in some crushed cashews or slivered almonds.
Spicy Version - Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Pair with steamed broccoli, garlic broccoli rabe, bok choy, or roasted carrots for extra gut-friendly fiber.
Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and drizzle of honey for added depth of flavor.

❄️ Storage

Refrigerate - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze - The cooked chicken and sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.
Reheat - Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

🥘 Meal Prep Tips

If you're meal prepping, consider doubling the recipe. Store half for the week and freeze the other half for a quick meal later. This saves time and ensures you have a nutritious, homemade meal on hand.

🍳 Equipment

To make this honey sesame chicken, you'll need a large skillet or pan to cook the chicken and sauce evenly. A non-stick or stainless-steel pan works best to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

You'll also need mixing bowls to coat the chicken in arrowroot powder and to prepare the sauce. A whisk is essential for blending the sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring that the honey, tamari, and spices are well incorporated.

Having measuring spoons and cups on hand will help with precise ingredient portions, so the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors comes out perfectly. Lastly, a sharp knife and cutting board will make prepping the chicken and garnishes quick and efficient.

The Best

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Grab a bottle to elevate your dishes with a clean, wholesome sweetness! 🍯

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🤔 ⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Without Arrowroot Powder?

Yes! You can use cornstarch or tapioca starch as a substitute.

Is This Recipe Paleo-Friendly?

Yes! Just swap tamari for coconut aminos and keep the honey as the natural sweetener.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

What's the Best Way To Reheat Without Drying It Out?

Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.

Can I Air-Fry the Chicken Instead of Pan-Frying?

Yes! Toss the chicken in arrowroot powder and air-fry at 375°F for about 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

😀 Enjoy This Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe!

This gut-healthy, gluten-free honey sesame chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that's packed with nourishing ingredients. With the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and savory flavors, it's a healthier take on takeout that your gut will thank you for.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how you liked it in the comments below! And if you post to Instagram, I repost your remakes of your creations on my IG stories!

I would also love to hear what you think, or take a photo and tag me @EatYourNutrition on Instagram. I love seeing your photos. #EatYourNutrition #LauraVillanueva

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🤲 Pairing

These are my favorite recipes to serve with this honey sesame chicken recipe:

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