Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

If you're craving a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that balances sweet and savory flavors, Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is the perfect choice. 

This dish combines crispy, juicy chicken with a rich honey-sesame glaze, perfectly complemented by tender-crisp broccoli. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Healthier Option – Made with lean chicken breast and nutrient-rich broccoli.

• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The sweetness of honey, the umami of soy sauce, and the nuttiness of sesame seeds make this dish irresistible.

• Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey

• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon minced ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For the Broccoli:

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well coated. This creates a light crust for crispiness.

2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Steam or Stir-Fry the Broccoli

1. If steaming: Boil water in a pot, add a steaming basket with broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

2. If stir-frying: Add 1 teaspoon sesame oil to a pan, toss in broccoli, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

2. Heat the mixture in a pan over medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli into the sauce and toss until everything is well coated.

2. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top.

2. Serve hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

• For Extra Crispy Chicken: Double-coat the chicken in cornstarch and let it sit for 10 minutes before frying.

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep it tender-crisp for the best texture and flavor.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey by 1 tablespoon.

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha for heat.

• Make it Healthier: Use air-fried or baked chicken instead of pan-frying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

2. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or even noodles.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower for a vegetarian-friendly version.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

6. Can I freeze Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli?

Yes, but freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the broccoli to prevent sogginess. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious, versatile dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Try it today and let us know how you like it!

Enjoy your meal! 🍽️