One Pot Sesame Chicken
Every time I make this One Pot Sesame Chicken, I’m transported back to my childhood when my family would gather around the table for a delicious meal. There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce all in one pot. It’s a busy weeknight, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a lifesaver, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal without the fuss of multiple pans and pots to clean. The aroma of the sesame oil fills the air, and I can already hear the sounds of my family gathering, eager to dig in.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Easy
380 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Whisk, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan
What Sets This One Pot Sesame Chicken Apart
Quick and Easy
One of the reasons I absolutely adore this One Pot Sesame Chicken is its simplicity. Everything comes together in just one pot, which means fewer dishes and a quicker cleanup. You can have dinner on the table in no time!
Flavor Explosion
The flavor profile of this dish is nothing short of amazing. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey creates a delectable glaze that makes every bite a burst of flavor. The fresh ginger and red pepper add a nice kick that elevates the dish.
Healthy and Nutritious
This recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients. The lean chicken provides protein, while the carrot and green onion add essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Customizable
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Want to add some broccoli or bell peppers? Go for it! This dish adapts to your tastes.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This One Pot Sesame Chicken is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
Family-Friendly
Lastly, this recipe is a hit with everyone in the family. Even picky eaters will love the sweet and savory flavors. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming their taste buds.
What Goes Into One Pot Sesame Chicken

This One Pot Sesame Chicken is all about the harmony of flavors and textures. The ingredients work together to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Key players include juicy pieces of chicken, crunchy carrots, and a vibrant sauce that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil – This aromatic oil adds a nutty flavor that’s essential to the dish.
- 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch strips – The star of the dish, providing lean protein.
- 1 carrot peeled and sliced into thin 1 inch ribbons – Adds color and a slight sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium – Provides the savory depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a touch of sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper – Adds a bit of heat to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ginger fresh, grated – Enhances the flavor with warmth and zest.
- 1 garlic clove minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – A thickening agent to help create the perfect sauce consistency.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – For garnish, adding a delightful crunch.
- 1/4 cup green onion sliced – Freshness that completes the dish.
Cooking Instructions for One Pot Sesame Chicken

Cooking this One Pot Sesame Chicken is a breeze and requires minimal effort. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful dish that you’ll want to make time and again.
- Start by heating sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready for cooking. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor.
- Once the oil is hot, add the strips of chicken and carrot to the pot. Stir them gently to ensure they are well coated in the oil. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is firm and cooked through, turning golden brown.
- As the chicken finishes cooking, take a moment to drain off any excess liquid from the pan. This avoids a watery sauce later on.
- While the chicken cooks, grab a small bowl and combine all ingredients except sesame seeds and green onion. This includes soy sauce, honey, crushed red pepper, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where all the magic happens, creating a sticky and flavorful sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and carrot. Stir everything together to coat evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for one minute.
- During this time, watch as the sauce begins to thicken, enveloping the chicken and carrots in a beautiful glaze.
- Next, stir in the sesame seeds. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
- Remove the pot from heat, and top the dish with sliced green onion. This not only adds flavor but also a pop of color.
- Finally, serve the One Pot Sesame Chicken over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat while cooking the chicken. You want it cooked through but not burnt.
- Prep Ahead: You can chop your vegetables and prepare the sauce in advance to save time.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor.
Tips and Variations

Here are some great tips and variations to consider when making this One Pot Sesame Chicken:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: Serve with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Substitutions: If you have other vegetables on hand, feel free to add them in!
- Serving Size: This recipe yields enough for four servings, perfect for a family meal or leftovers.
How to Enjoy One Pot Sesame Chicken
Enjoying this One Pot Sesame Chicken can be a delightful experience!
- Serve Over Rice: A bed of fluffy brown rice is a wonderful way to soak up the tasty sauce.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t hold back on the green onions and sesame seeds for that extra flavor and crunch.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is ideal for preparing ahead of time. Pack it in individual containers for quick lunches.
- Family Dinners: This meal is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends.
- Customizable: Feel free to add or replace vegetables based on what you have available.
FAQ
Conclusion
The One Pot Sesame Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I encourage you to give this dish a try and enjoy the deliciousness it brings to your home. You won’t be disappointed!

One Pot Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the sesame oil on medium heat.
- Once hot, add the chicken and carrot. Cook until the chicken is firm and cooked through. Drain off any excess liquid.
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients except sesame seeds and green onion.
- Whisk until smooth and pour over the cooked chicken. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute, or until thick and chicken is coated.
- Stir in the sesame seeds. Remove from heat and top with green onion.
- Serve over brown rice or quinoa, if desired.


