Delicious Honey Sesame Chicken with Broccoli served on a plate

Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a sweet and savory sauce that everyone will love. This meal is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for families looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce*
  • 2 Tablespoons water
  • 1 ½ Tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 Tablespoons honey
  • 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (finely grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch*
  • 2 Tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot flour
  • 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1-1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-2-inch pieces)
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cups broccoli florets (about 2 crowns)
  • 2 whole green onions (diced)

Directions

  1. Steam the Broccoli: Fill a large pot with 2-3 inches of water, then add the broccoli along with 1 teaspoon of salt. Cover and bring to a simmer. Cook for 6 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Drain and rinse with cold water.

  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, water, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, minced garlic, cornstarch, and sesame seeds. Set the sauce aside.

  3. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large plastic zipper bag. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Sprinkle this mixture onto the chicken, seal the bag, and toss to coat all pieces evenly.

  4. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Cook without touching for 2-3 minutes until golden. Flip to cook remaining sides until fully cooked and golden.

  5. Cook the Sauce: When the chicken is done, pour the prepared sauce over it. Toss to coat and bring it to a simmer. Stir until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.

  6. Toss Chicken and Broccoli Together: If there’s room in your skillet, add the broccoli and gently fold it in. If not, mix it in a separate bowl. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm.

How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Serve Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh touch!

How to Store Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Tips to Make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your preference.
  • Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become dry.

Variation

For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or serve with a side of spicy pickled vegetables. You can also use other vegetables, like bell peppers or snap peas, to add more color and crunch.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just steam it according to package instructions before adding it to the dish.

  2. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
    If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable or canola oil, but it will change the flavor slightly.

  3. Is this dish gluten-free?
    To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and make sure your cornstarch is gluten-free.