Craving a delicious and balanced meal that’s perfect for on-the-go? This Sesame Ginger Chicken Bento is a fantastic option for Healthy Bento Box Lunches, offering vibrant flavors and satisfying goodness. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble and how great it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well too, but thighs offer more flavor and tenderness.
- Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
- Honey: Maple syrup is a good vegan substitute.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger provides the best flavor; ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but reduce the amount.
- Sesame Oil: Don’t skip this for authentic flavor.
- Vegetables: Broccoli florets and carrots are excellent, but feel free to use snap peas, bell peppers, or edamame.
- Cooked Rice: Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are great healthy alternatives to white rice.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Bento Box:
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, mixing bowl, bento box containers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other components.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, reserving any extra marinade. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly caramelized. If desired, pour in the reserved marinade during the last minute of cooking to create a glaze.
3. Prepare Your Vegetables
While the chicken cooks, steam your broccoli until tender-crisp. You can do this in a microwave or on the stovetop. Shred your carrots or use pre-shredded ones for convenience.
4. Assemble Your Bento Box
Divide the cooked brown rice, sesame ginger chicken, steamed broccoli, and shredded carrots between two bento box containers. Sprinkle the chicken with sesame seeds for an extra touch. Include a lemon wedge if you like.
Variation Ideas
- Add a side of mandarin oranges or sliced cucumber for extra freshness.
- Incorporate a hard-boiled egg for additional protein.
- Include a small container of your favorite healthy dressing for the vegetables.
- Try adding roasted sweet potato cubes instead of rice for a different carb source.
Storage Instructions
You can store your assembled Sesame Ginger Chicken Bento boxes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat the chicken and rice components in the microwave until warm, or enjoy the bento chilled for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you prepare this bento box ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare all components up to 3-4 days in advance, making this a great option for meal prepping Healthy Bento Box Lunches.
Q: What if you don’t have fresh ginger?
A: You can use ground ginger, but use about 1/2 teaspoon as it’s more concentrated than fresh.
Q: Can you make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh, pressed and cubed, then marinate and cook similarly.
Q: What other vegetables work well in this bento?
A: Snap peas, bell peppers, edamame, or green beans are all excellent choices.
Q: Is this bento suitable for packed lunches?
A: Yes, this Sesame Ginger Chicken Bento is specifically designed to be portable and delicious for Healthy Bento Box Lunches.
Q: How can you make this spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for a touch of heat.