Honey Sesame Chicken with Tender Broccoli in a Sweet Glaze

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Why You’ll Love This Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

This honey sesame chicken broccoli recipe is simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights. It offers a balanced meal with lean chicken breast and nutrient-packed broccoli for a healthy twist. Its adaptable nature makes it easy to modify for various dietary needs while keeping the delicious flavor intact.

With its ease of preparation, you can have a hearty dinner ready in no time. The dish is budget-friendly, using everyday ingredients that you likely have on hand. Honey sesame chicken broccoli appeals to home cooks, busy parents, and food enthusiasts looking for tasty, accessible meals.

The standout honey sesame glaze adds a sweet and savory touch that elevates everyday eating. It’s ideal for meal prep as it reheats well without losing flavor. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, this recipe fits into your lifestyle seamlessly.

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Essential Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this honey sesame chicken broccoli dish. Below is a complete list based on standard recipe guidelines, ensuring you have everything needed for a perfect meal. Each item includes precise measurements for accuracy and ease.

  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (or substitute with coconut aminos for a soy-free option)
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (about 5 grams)
  • 2 cloves minced garlic (about 10 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch or arrowroot flour (about 30 grams)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (about 30 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 450 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 400 grams)
  • 1/4 cup diced green onions (about 20 grams, for garnish)

These ingredients serve four people and create a flavorful sauce along with the main components. For special dietary options, consider vegan swaps like using tofu instead of chicken and maple syrup instead of honey. Always opt for gluten-free alternatives when needed to keep the recipe inclusive.

How to Prepare the Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide

Start by preparing all your ingredients to make the process smooth. This includes washing and cutting broccoli into florets and dicing chicken into bite-sized pieces. Measuring out the sauce components ahead of time ensures everything comes together quickly.

Next, mix the honey sesame sauce in a bowl by whisking together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil to cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked, which takes about 6-8 minutes.

Remove the chicken and stir-fry the broccoli in the same pan for 4-5 minutes until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens, then serve hot.

This method takes about 30 minutes total, with 15 minutes for prep and 15 for cooking. It’s perfect for honey sesame chicken fans looking for a quick meal. For added tips, check this honey sesame chicken recipe for more ideas.

Honey Sesame Chicken With Tender Broccoli In A Sweet Glaze 9

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Making substitutions can tailor this honey sesame chicken broccoli to your needs. For protein, swap chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version that absorbs the sauce well. Shrimp or turkey breast also work as lean alternatives for variety.

When adjusting vegetables, replace broccoli with snap peas, green beans, or bok choy based on what’s in season. For the sauce, use low-sodium soy sauce or add rice vinegar for extra tang. Spicing it up with red pepper flakes can add heat if desired.

These changes keep the essence of honey sesame chicken broccoli while meeting dietary requirements. For those interested in gluten-free options, tamari or coconut aminos are great swaps. If you’re watching calories, reduce the honey or steam the broccoli lightly.

Mastering Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro Cooking Techniques

Use high heat when stir-frying to lock in juices and get a slight char for more flavor. Marinating the chicken in the sauce beforehand boosts the taste significantly. Always check that chicken reaches 165°F internally for safety.

Flavor Variations

Try adding orange zest or pineapple juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist. Incorporating chopped cashews can bring extra crunch to your honey sesame chicken. For dessert lovers, explore easy cookie recipes to pair with this savory dish.

Presentation and Make-Ahead Options

Serve on jasmine rice with scallions and sesame seeds for a nice look. Prep the sauce and chop ingredients in advance to save time. These ideas make honey sesame chicken broccoli versatile for any occasion, including family dinners or meal prep.

How to Store Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your honey sesame chicken broccoli fresh and tasty. Refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to avoid spoilage. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat or the microwave, stirring to keep the sauce even. If meal prepping, divide into single servings and undercook the broccoli slightly to prevent sogginess. Following these steps ensures your dish remains enjoyable.

Storage MethodDurationTips
Refrigeration3-4 daysUse airtight containers
FreezingUp to 2 monthsThaw overnight in fridge
ReheatingN/AStir occasionally for even heat
Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli
Honey Sesame Chicken With Tender Broccoli In A Sweet Glaze 10

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

What can I use instead of soy sauce in Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli?

You can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos if you want a soy-free option. Coconut aminos is sweeter and less salty, so adjust the amount of added salt in the recipe accordingly. This substitution keeps the dish flavorful and suitable for those avoiding soy or gluten.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh in this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli florets work well as a substitute. Use about 20 ounces of frozen broccoli and partially steam or microwave it just before adding to the dish. This helps maintain a tender-crisp texture and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.

How do I cook the chicken to get a crispy coating in Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli?

Lightly coat chicken pieces with a mixture of cornstarch and flour, then cook them in hot olive oil over medium heat in a single layer. Fry the chicken until all sides turn golden brown and the inside is no longer pink, ensuring a crispy texture and fully cooked meat.

How can I make Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli suitable for Whole30?

To make this recipe Whole30 compliant, replace soy sauce with coconut aminos and swap cornstarch for arrowroot starch as the thickening agent. These substitutions keep the dish free of grains and soy, aligning with Whole30 guidelines.

How long can I store Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli leftovers, and can I freeze them?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freezing is not recommended because the sauce and broccoli’s texture tend to degrade after thawing, resulting in a watery or mushy dish. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
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Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

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🍯 Honey Sesame Chicken with Tender Broccoli offers a sweet and savory flavor combination that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
🥦 This recipe features lightly breaded chicken and tender steamed broccoli coated in a delicious honey sesame glaze, perfect for quick and healthy meals.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

– 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (or substitute with coconut aminos for a soy-free option)

– 1/4 cup water

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (about 5 grams)

– 2 cloves minced garlic (about 10 grams)

– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to form a slurry)

– 1/4 cup cornstarch or arrowroot flour (about 30 grams)

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (about 30 grams)

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 450 grams)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 4 cups broccoli florets (about 400 grams)

– 1/4 cup diced green onions (about 20 grams, for garnish)

Instructions

1-Start by preparing all your ingredients to make the process smooth. This includes washing and cutting broccoli into florets and dicing chicken into bite-sized pieces. Measuring out the sauce components ahead of time ensures everything comes together quickly.

2-Next, mix the honey sesame sauce in a bowl by whisking together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil to cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked, which takes about 6-8 minutes.

3-Remove the chicken and stir-fry the broccoli in the same pan for 4-5 minutes until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens, then serve hot.

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Notes

🥦 Avoid overcooking broccoli to keep it crisp and avoid watery texture.
❄️ For frozen broccoli, microwave less than package instructions and drain well before adding.
🌾 Use gluten-free flours and coconut aminos for a Whole30 or gluten-free variation.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Steaming and pan cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 443
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 1145 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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