The aroma of Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli fills your kitchen, bringing an enticing sweetness with a hint of savory goodness that dances through the air. Picture this: tender chicken pieces glazed in a honey-sesame sauce, paired perfectly with vibrant green broccoli, all ready to sweep you off your feet.

This dish isn’t just about delicious flavors; it’s a trip down memory lane. I remember the first time I made Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli for my family—my little brother declared it his “new favorite food” while giggling over his plate. It’s a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings when you want to impress without wearing out your apron.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means even kitchen novices can whip it up in no time.
- Its delightful flavor profile combines sweet and savory tones that will tantalize your taste buds.
- With bright colors from the broccoli and chicken glistening in sauce, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served over rice or noodles, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use around 3-4 breasts depending on how many you’re serving; they cook quickly and soak up flavors beautifully.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets for the best texture; they add crunch and nutrition to the dish.
Honey: Opt for raw honey if possible; its rich flavor enhances the sauce’s sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while adding that classic umami flavor.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; it provides nutty notes that complement the chicken perfectly.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; minced finely will release its oils and flavor beautifully.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds are optional but add a nice crunch and additional sesame flavor when sprinkled on top.
For the Sauce:
Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances the saltiness of soy sauce, creating a sticky glaze that coats everything perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop broccoli into florets. Mince your garlic so it’s ready to go.
Step 2: Make Your Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined. This sweet-and-savory mixture will become your magical coating.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, toss in the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through—about five to seven minutes.
Step 4: Add Broccoli
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the broccoli florets. Pour your prepared sauce over everything in the skillet. Let it simmer together for about three to four minutes until the broccoli becomes bright green and tender yet crisp.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Transfer everything onto plates or serve straight from the skillet—it doesn’t matter because every bite is worth savoring!
Step 6: Enjoy
Drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pan for that extra touch of flavor before digging in! Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds.
Now you have all you need to create this delightful Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli dish at home! Enjoy cooking!
You Must Know
- This delightful Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes dinner feel like a gourmet experience.
- With vibrant colors and flavors, it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to soak up all that sweet and savory goodness. Sear the chicken until golden, then stir-fry the broccoli until tender-crisp. Combine everything with your honey sesame sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Add Your Touch
Get creative! Swap broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers, or add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. You can also use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian delight that still packs a punch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or toss it in a hot skillet to restore that fresh-cooked flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always marinate your chicken longer than you think; this enhances flavor significantly.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan while cooking; give each piece space to sear perfectly.
- Lastly, adding sesame seeds at the end provides a delightful crunch to your dish.
Sometimes I whip up Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli on weeknights when I need comfort food. The joyful looks on my family’s faces remind me why I love cooking so much!
FAQs :
What is Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli?
Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious dish popular in Asian cuisine. It features tender pieces of chicken stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce. This dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. You can serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that your family will love.
How do I make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli healthier?
To make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli healthier, consider using lean cuts of chicken like breast meat instead of thighs. You can also reduce the amount of honey used in the sauce or substitute it with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. Adding more vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas can enhance the nutritional value while keeping the dish colorful and vibrant.
Can I make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli ahead of time. Cook the chicken and broccoli as per the recipe, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. However, for best results, consume within 2-3 days to maintain flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli?
Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli pairs well with various sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice complements the flavors beautifully. You could also serve it with quinoa for a healthy twist. For those looking to keep it light, a simple salad or vegetable stir-fry makes an excellent accompaniment, balancing out this sweet dish nicely.
Conclusion for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli :
In summary, Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is an easy-to-make dish that combines flavors of sweetness with savory notes. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. By customizing this recipe with healthier options or additional vegetables, you can make it fit your dietary needs while still being delicious. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings both taste and nutrition to your table!
Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich honey sesame sauce, complemented by vibrant, crunchy broccoli. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 pieces)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and the broccoli into florets. Mince the garlic.
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil to create the sauce.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in broccoli florets and pour the prepared sauce over the mixture. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Marinate the chicken for extra flavor before cooking. Feel free to substitute broccoli with snap peas or bell peppers for variety. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.