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TL;DR
Traditional sesame chicken is typically not gluten-free, as it usually contains wheat flour in the breading and soy sauce which contains gluten. However, gluten-free versions can be made by using gluten-free flour for breading and tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Quick Tips
1Protein source: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
2Vitamin B6: Chicken contains vitamin B6, which supports brain function and helps form red blood cells.
3Selenium: Both chicken and sesame seeds are good sources of selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
# In This Article
3 sectionsQuick navigation to each section of this article:
1 Benefits of Sesame Chicken
Protein source: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Jump2 Who should avoid Sesame Chicken
Individuals with sesame allergies: Sesame is a common allergen and a key ingredient in this dish.
Jump3 Gluten Free Alternatives
Here are five gluten-free alternatives to Sesame Chicken, along with short descriptions:
JumpBenefits of Sesame Chicken
| Benefits of Sesame Chicken |
|---|
| Protein source: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. |
| Vitamin B6: Chicken contains vitamin B6, which supports brain function and helps form red blood cells. |
| Selenium: Both chicken and sesame seeds are good sources of selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function. |
| Healthy fats: Sesame seeds contain healthy unsaturated fats, which can support heart health when consumed in moderation. |
| Calcium and iron: Sesame seeds provide calcium for bone health and iron for blood health. |
| Fiber: If the dish includes vegetables or is served with brown rice, it can provide dietary fiber for digestive health. |
| Antioxidants: Sesame seeds contain antioxidants like sesamol, which may help protect cells from damage. |
| Zinc: Both chicken and sesame seeds contain zinc, which is important for immune function and wound healing. |
| Low in carbs: When prepared without breading, sesame chicken can be relatively low in carbohydrates. |
| Versatility: The dish can be customized with various vegetables to increase its nutritional value.Note: The healthiness of the dish can vary greatly depending on preparation methods and portion sizes. Restaurant versions may be high in calories, sodium, and added sugars. |
Who should avoid Sesame Chicken
| Who should avoid Sesame Chicken |
|---|
| Individuals with sesame allergies: Sesame is a common allergen and a key ingredient in this dish. |
| People with soy allergies: Many Sesame Chicken recipes use soy sauce as an ingredient. |
| Those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease: Traditional recipes often contain wheat-based ingredients like soy sauce and flour for coating. |
| Individuals on low-sodium diets: Sesame Chicken can be high in sodium due to soy sauce and other seasonings. |
| People with peanut allergies: While not always present, some recipes may include peanut oil or cross-contamination risks in preparation. |
| Those following a low-fat diet: The chicken is typically deep-fried, making it high in fat. |
| Individuals with diabetes or watching their sugar intake: Some recipes include added sugars in the sauce. |
| People on a low-calorie diet: Sesame Chicken can be calorie-dense due to frying and sweet sauces. |
| Vegetarians and vegans: As it contains chicken and sometimes egg in the batter. |
| Those avoiding processed foods: Restaurant versions often use processed ingredients in the sauce.Remember, recipe variations exist, so always check ingredients if you have specific dietary concerns. |
Gluten Free Alternatives
Here are five gluten-free alternatives to Sesame Chicken, along with short descriptions:
| Gluten Free Alternatives |
|---|
| Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken:A light and refreshing option featuring chicken breast marinated in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Grilled to perfection, it offers a tangy and aromatic flavor without the need for gluten-containing ingredients. |
| Coconut Curry Chicken:A flavorful dish combining tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy coconut milk-based curry sauce. Typically made with gluten-free ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and other aromatic spices, it provides a satisfying alternative with a tropical twist. |
| Honey Garlic Chicken:A sweet and savory option made with chicken coated in a sticky gluten-free sauce of honey, garlic, and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This dish offers a delicious balance of flavors without using wheat-based ingredients. |
| Cilantro Lime Chicken:A zesty and fresh alternative featuring chicken marinated in lime juice, cilantro, and spices. Grilled or pan-seared, this naturally gluten-free option provides a light, citrusy flavor profile perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative. |
| Almond-Crusted Chicken:A crunchy and nutritious option where chicken is coated with ground almonds instead of wheat-based breadcrumbs. Baked or air-fried, this gluten-free alternative offers a satisfying texture and nutty flavor, often served with a variety of dipping sauces. |
Health Information
? Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions1 Does sesame sauce have gluten?
2 What is sesame chicken batter made of?
3 Is Chinese breaded chicken gluten-free?
4 Is sesame paste gluten-free?
Our Expert
Drs. Ilse van Asperen
Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor
Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website
Our Sources
The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.