A Family That Eats Together: Light and Healthy Sesame Chicken

Marin Mommies presents this week's guest recipe from Nicole Cibellis, Marin mom and author of the blog A Family that Eats Together, where she shares meal plans and recipes that will please foodies and children alike. Here's Nicole's meal plan for this week.

Who needs Chinese take-out when you can have it so much better and healthier at home? My recipe is sautéed in coconut oil a much healthier alternative to unusual saturated frying oils and it also gives the dish a little unexpected hint of sweet coconut. The dipping sauce is oil free and full of incredible flavors without all the fat. Serve with nutritionally rich brown rice and your favorite steamed vegetable such as broccoli or snow peas.

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry
• 4 scallions, thinly sliced
• Co arse salt and ground pepper

For the marinade

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds + more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 large egg whites
• ¼ cup cornstarch

For the dipping sauce

• 1/8 cup light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

Directions

1. For the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, soy sauce, garlic, egg whites and cornstarch. Add chicken and toss to coat. Set-aside until you are ready to begin cooking.
2. For the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, dark soy sauce, ginger, garlic and brown sugar. If needed, adjust the sugar if the sauce is too sour. Set aside.
3. In a large non-stick skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-low heat. Add the chicken without the marinade; cook, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
4. Plate the chicken and garnish with scallions and more sesame seeds. Serve with brown rice and your favorite steamed vegetable.