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Sesame Chicken Bowls with Cucumber Salad

Elevate Dinner with Sesame Chicken Bowls and Cucumber Salad

Sesame Chicken Bowls with Cucumber Salad are gluten-free and dairy-free, providing a deliciously satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Cucumber Salad
  • 2 cups Persian or mini cucumbers substitute with regular cucumbers if unavailable
  • 1 cup chopped green onions can replace with chives for a milder taste
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds use sunflower seeds as a replacement if needed
  • 1 tablespoon Sichuan Chili Crisp red pepper flakes can be a substitute for less heat
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar apple cider vinegar is a viable alternative
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro substitute with parsley for a different flavor profile
  • 1/4 cup Thai basil and mint omit if not available, or substitute with regular basil and/or fresh parsley
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil can replace with olive oil
For Assembling the Bowls
  • 2 cups prepared brown rice for paleo options, substitute with cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup Creamy Sesame dressing can use a homemade version if preferred
  • 1 lime for serving accompanies the dish for added zesty flavor

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • medium bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Method
 

Cucumber Salad Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine thinly sliced Persian or mini cucumbers, chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, Sichuan chili crisp, and a splash of rice vinegar. Add freshly chopped cilantro, Thai basil, and mint along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix the ingredients well, and set the salad aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken.
Season Chicken
  1. Generously season both sides of boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage. Allow the seasoned chicken to sit for a few minutes at room temperature.
Cook Chicken
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
Rest and Slice Chicken
  1. Let the cooked chicken rest for about 5 minutes on a cutting board. After resting, slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. In individual bowls, start with a generous base of prepared brown rice or cauliflower rice. Add the sliced chicken on top, drizzle with creamy sesame dressing, and finish with a scoop of cucumber salad over the chicken. Top with extra herbs and a sprinkle of Sichuan chili crisp, and serve with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfect for meal prepping; these bowls hold up well in the fridge for up to 2 days.

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