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Lightly Sautéed Chicken with Honey and Sesame Seeds with Snow Peas Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on December 14, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious and nutritious meal that won’t derail your weight loss goals, say hello to Honey-Sesame Chicken with Snow Peas!

This dish combines tender chicken lightly sautéed with a sweet and savory honey-sesame sauce, served alongside crisp snow peas.

Not only does it offer a delightful flavor explosion, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Let’s dive into the benefits of this dish and how to prepare it step by step.

The Sweet Benefits of Honey

Honey is more than just a sweetener; it’s a natural ingredient with several health benefits. While it’s still sugar, it contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can provide various health benefits.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one tablespoon of honey has about 64 calories and contains antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids.

Some studies have suggested that honey may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can benefit overall health.

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that honey can aid in wound healing and may improve digestive health. Plus, its natural sweetness can help satisfy your sweet tooth without the need for refined sugars.

Chicken: A Lean Protein Powerhouse

Chicken is often a go-to protein source for health-conscious eaters, and for good reason! A 3.5-ounce serving of skinless chicken breast contains around 165 calories and 31 grams of protein, according to the USDA.

Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and plays a key role in keeping you full, which is particularly important when trying to lose weight.

Research indicates that increasing your protein intake can help with weight management by reducing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness.

A study in Obesity Reviews showed that a higher protein diet can significantly improve weight loss outcomes.

The Crunchy Goodness of Snow Peas

Snow peas may not always get the spotlight, but they deserve some love! These crunchy pods are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any meal.

Just one cup of snow peas contains about 41 calories and provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.

The fiber content in snow peas contributes to digestive health and helps keep you feeling satisfied.

According to the American Heart Association, a diet high in fiber can lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Plus, snow peas add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Honey-Sesame Chicken with Snow Peas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Snow Peas

  • 2 cups fresh snow peas, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for serving

Step-by-Step Recipe

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get cooking! This dish is quick to prepare and can be on your table in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

  • In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and a sauce.
  • Add the sliced chicken to the bowl, tossing to coat well. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour will enhance the flavors even further.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of cooking oil if necessary.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The marinade will caramelize slightly, creating a delicious glaze on the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Snow Peas

  • While the chicken is cooking, in another pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the trimmed snow peas and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  • Once the chicken is cooked, toss the sautéed snow peas into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine and heat through for another minute.
  • Serve the dish hot, garnished with sesame seeds and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Nutritional Highlights

This Honey-Sesame Chicken with Snow Peas offers a variety of health benefits:

  • Lean Protein: The chicken serves as a great source of protein, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.
  • Low Calorie: Both chicken and snow peas are low in calories, making this dish perfect for weight loss.
  • Rich in Nutrients: Honey adds a touch of sweetness while providing antioxidants, and snow peas contribute essential vitamins and fiber.

Tips for Customization

  • Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to increase the nutritional content and add more crunch.
  • Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the chicken while cooking.
  • Alternative Protein: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop to maintain the texture of the chicken and snow peas. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

The Perfect Pairing

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing would also complement the flavors beautifully.

A Delightful Dish for Any Occasion

Healthy eating doesn’t need to be dull or complicated. Honey-Sesame Chicken with Snow Peas is proof that you can enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal while still staying on track with your weight loss goals.

Its combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish for any occasion—be it a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

So why not give it a try?

Whip up this scrumptious recipe, and let your taste buds celebrate!