Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli: A Delicious Easy Recipe

Introduction to Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Imagine arriving home after a whirlwind day, your energy levels low but your love for cooking still alive. That’s when I turn to Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a glaze of honey sesame sauce that’s both sweet and savory. It’s a quick solution for busy days and a meal that never fails to impress my family. Trust me, making this flavorful dish will turn any weeknight into a mini celebration. You’re just a few steps away from serving up happiness!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

This Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli recipe is a true gem for any busy mom or professional. It’s simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. The sweet and savory notes of the honey sesame sauce pair beautifully with tender chicken and bright broccoli, making every bite feel like a warm hug. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward whipping up your Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos: A savory base for the sauce, providing umami flavor while keeping sodium in check.
• Water: This helps balance the intensity of the soy sauce, making the sauce smoother.
• Toasted sesame oil: For a nutty aroma and depth of flavor, it really elevates the dish.
• Honey: The star of the show! It brings sweetness and helps create that glossy glaze.
• Rice vinegar: This add a hint of tang, cutting sweetness for a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Freshly grated ginger: Offers a zesty warmth and is a perfect match for the chicken.
• Garlic: Minced garlic packs a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with soy sauce.
• Sesame seeds: They add crunch and visual appeal, making the dish more inviting.
• Cornstarch or arrowroot flour: A thickening agent for the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the chicken.
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: This is our protein hero, tender and perfect for quick cooking.
• All-purpose flour: This is used alongside cornstarch for coating the chicken, giving it a crispy exterior.
• Coarse salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
• Olive oil: A healthy fat for cooking the chicken, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.
• Broccoli florets: A nutrient powerhouse that adds vibrant color and crunch to the dish. Fresh or frozen works great!
• Green onions: Finely sliced, they provide a fresh finish to the meal, elevating those flavors beautifully.

You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this tasty Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Start by filling a large pot with 2 to 3 inches of water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to it. Bring the water to a simmer over low heat, then toss in your broccoli florets. Cover the pot and let them cook for about 6 minutes until they are tender-crisp. It’s that perfect, vibrant green that will brighten your plate!

Once done, drain the broccoli in a colander. You’ll want to rinse them under cold water immediately. This stops the cooking process and keeps the broccoli deliciously crisp. No mushy veggies here!

Step 2: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

In a small bowl, combine your soy sauce or coconut aminos with water, toasted sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Mix everything together until smooth. The result should be a lovely golden sauce, ready to bring your dish to life. Set it aside for now; you’ll need it soon!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take your chicken pieces and toss them into a large zipper bag. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. This coating is key for that crispy texture we all love!

Now, add this dry mixture to the bag with the chicken, seal it up, and give it a good shake. This ensures every piece of chicken is well-coated, making them flavorful and perfectly crispy when cooked.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, arrange the coated chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns golden brown. This is when the magic happens!

Gently turn the chicken pieces to brown all sides. Cook until there’s no pink left in the middle. You want each bite to be juicy and safe for the family!

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to pour that beautiful honey sesame sauce over the top in the skillet. Gently stir it all together and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat.

This is where the sauce thickens, becoming glossy and coating every juicy piece of chicken. Give it a few minutes; the smell alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!

Step 6: Add Broccoli and Serve

If there’s enough space in the skillet, add the steamed broccoli right into the mix. Gently fold the broccoli into the chicken and sauce. If the skillet is too crowded, transfer everything to a larger bowl.

Once everything is well combined, sprinkle with chopped green onions for that fresh burst of flavor. Serve warm, and watch your family’s faces light up with joy! Enjoy your homemade Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli.

Tips for Success

• Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
• Use fresh broccoli for a vibrant color and crunch.
• Keep the chicken in a single layer while cooking for even browning.
• If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• For leftovers, store in an airtight container and reheat gently.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot: For steaming broccoli. A steamer basket works well too.
• Colander: To drain the broccoli. A fine mesh sieve can be a great alternative.
• Large skillet: Essential for cooking chicken. A non-stick pan is a good substitute.
• Whisk: For mixing sauces. A fork can do the trick if needed.
• Zipper bag: To coat chicken. A bowl with a lid can also work.

Variations

• Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein source. Both options soak up the sauce beautifully!
• Vegetarian Delight: Make it a vegetarian dish by omitting chicken entirely and adding more veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free for celiac-friendly meals.
• Heat it Up: If you crave some spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the honey sesame sauce for a fiery twist.
• Noodle Addition: Serve the chicken and broccoli over a bed of rice or noodles, turning it into a satisfying one-dish meal.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

• Serve over rice: Fluffy jasmine or brown rice is a great base to soak up that delicious sauce.
• Pair with noodles: Asian-style noodles or even whole grain noodles add a comforting touch.
• Drink pairing: A chilled glass of iced green tea complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Presentation tips: Garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an eye-catching dish.
• Side dishes: A light cucumber salad or steamed dumplings enhances the meal without overpowering it.

FAQs about Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Can I make Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce earlier in the day and simply cook the broccoli fresh before serving. This way, your meal can come together quickly when it’s time to eat!

What can I substitute for honey?

If you’re looking for alternatives, pure maple syrup or agave nectar can work great. They offer similar sweetness and will still create that fantastic glaze.

Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for best results.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s a perfect meal prep option. Just keep the chicken and broccoli separate until you’re ready to eat, then combine them for a fresh taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’re a spice lover, simply add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey sesame sauce. It’ll give your meal a nice kick!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli isn’t just about making a meal; it’s about creating a moment that brings your family together. The laughter and chatter around the dinner table as everyone enjoys this dish is what truly makes it special. Each bite offers a sweet and savory hug that comforts the soul on busy nights. Plus, knowing I can whip it up in just 35 minutes feels like a little victory in my day. So go ahead, embrace your inner chef, and watch this recipe turn into a beloved favorite in your home!

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