Name: Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup low sodium soy sauce (*); 2 Tablespoons water; 1.5 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; 1-1.5 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

Introduction to Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

When it comes to meal choices, homemade food often wins over fast food, and for great reasons. First and foremost, preparing dishes like Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli allows you to control the ingredients. You can opt for fresh, high-quality produce and avoid added preservatives and sugars found in many fast-food options. According to the CDC, home-cooked meals tend to be more nutritious, with more vitamins and minerals compared to pre-packaged meals.

Not to mention, cooking at home can be a delightful experience. It’s an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen, learning new techniques and flavors. Plus, nothing compares to the aroma of a savory dish filling your home.

In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant, color-rich meal that features lightly breaded chicken breast and crisp broccoli, all enveloped in a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce. It’s not just quick; it’s also budget-friendly, costing less than $10 to serve four people!

Ready to transform your dinner game? Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli! After all, what could be more satisfying than a warm, freshly made meal enjoyed in the comfort of your own home?

Ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Cooking this delightful Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli dish is a breeze, thanks to the simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let's break it down into two categories for clarity.

Essential Ingredients for the Sauce

The sauce is what really ties this dish together, so make sure you have these essential ingredients on hand:

¼ cup low sodium soy sauce: A must for that savory flavor without too much salt.
2 Tablespoons water: To adjust the sauce consistency.
1 ½ Tablespoons sesame oil: Adds an aromatic nutty quality.
3 Tablespoons honey: For that signature sweetness—feel free to choose raw honey for added health benefits.
1 Tablespoon rice vinegar: Offers a tangy note that contrasts with the sweetness.
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated: Perfect for a little zing.
2 cloves garlic, minced: A classic flavor enhancer.
1 tablespoon sesame seeds: These add a lovely crunch and texture.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: To thicken your sauce beautifully.

Ingredients for the Chicken and Broccoli

For the chicken and broccoli, you'll need the following simple ingredients to ensure a satisfying and nutritious meal:

2 Tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot flour: A light coating for the chicken.
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour: For a slight crunch.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning!
1-1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-2 inch pieces: The star of the dish.
2 Tablespoons olive oil: To cook the chicken to golden perfection.
6 cups broccoli florets (about 2 crowns): A nutritious and colorful addition.
2 whole green onions, diced: For a fresh finish.

With these ingredients prepped, you’re ready to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! For tips on how to select fresh broccoli, check out this guide on choosing vegetables.

Step-by-step Preparation of Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Making Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli at home is a delightful cooking experience that’s well worth the effort. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s not only brimming with flavors but also packed with nutrients. So, let’s dive right in!

Steam the Broccoli

Start by bringing a large pot to life with 2-3 inches of water. If you have a steamer basket, great! If not, simply add the broccoli straight into the pot—just remember to sprinkle in about a teaspoon of salt for flavor. Cover it up and bring the water to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the broccoli steam for about 6 minutes, or until it becomes tender yet crisp. The vibrant green will make it look as wonderful as it tastes! Once done, drain the broccoli in a colander, then give it a rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps maintain that fresh crunch we all love.

Prepare the Honey Sesame Sauce

While the broccoli is steaming, you can whip up the honey sesame sauce. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 ½ tablespoons of sesame oil, 3 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Add in a teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves of minced garlic, the sesame seeds, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Give it all a good stir until blended. Set it aside for now—this sauce is going to tie everything together beautifully!

Prepare and Coat the Chicken

For the chicken, place your bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breast into a large plastic zippered bag. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle this mixture inside the bag with the chicken, seal it up, and give it a good shake until the chicken is nicely coated. This will create a lovely crust when cooked!

Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering—this usually happens right before it starts to smoke—place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes. Flip them over and continue cooking until all sides are golden and the chicken is cooked through—no pink in the center, please!

Combine Chicken with Sauce and Broccoli

It's time for the grand finale! Pour the prepared honey sesame sauce over the perfectly cooked chicken in the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Meanwhile, if you have room, toss in the steamed broccoli, and combine everything. If not, you can do it in a separate bowl. For that finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving warm. Enjoy your homemade Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli, a dish bursting with flavor, nutrients, and a little bit of love!

By following these steps, you’re not only feeding yourself but also treating your taste buds to a delightful experience. Happy cooking!

Variations on Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Honey Sesame Tofu for a Vegetarian Option

If you're looking for a vegetarian twist on this beloved dish, try substituting chicken with tofu. Simply press and cube extra-firm tofu, then coat it in the same mixture of cornstarch and flour before frying. This Honey Sesame Tofu not only absorbs the sweet and savory sauce beautifully but also provides that satisfying crunch! It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of honey sesame chicken and broccoli without the meat.

Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken for a Kick

For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, think about adding some heat to your Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli. A dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha will elevate the dish and add zest to the signature sweet sauce. This spicy twist can easily impress your taste buds while providing a flavor-packed experience that’s perfect for your next dinner party.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

How to achieve the perfect chicken texture

For your Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli, achieving that ideal chicken texture is crucial. Start by using a good quality chicken breast and ensure it's cut into uniform pieces (1-2 inches) for even cooking. Coating the chicken in a mix of cornstarch and flour creates a delectable crispy layer. Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed in a hot skillet; this gives it a nice golden color.

Tips for adjusting the sauce to your taste

Feel free to make the sauce your own! If you're a fan of more sweetness, increase the honey by a tablespoon. For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. Don’t forget, you can adjust the soy sauce for a saltier flavor, or even swap it for coconut aminos for a Whole30-friendly option. Experimenting with the sauce will help you create a version that perfectly suits your palate!

For more insights on cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats where you can dive deeper into achieving perfect chicken dishes.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Pairing with rice or quinoa

When it comes to serving Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli, pairing it with a base like steamed rice or quinoa can elevate the dish. The fluffy grains soak up that luscious honey sesame sauce, creating a delightful combination. Consider using:

Jasmine rice for a fragrant touch
Brown rice for a nutritious twist
Quinoa for a protein-packed alternative

Creative side dish ideas to complement the meal

To enhance your meal, think beyond the usual sides! Here are some delicious options that complement the flavors of Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli:

Stir-fried bok choy with garlic for a fresh crunch
Cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar for a refreshing contrast
Sesame snap peas for an additional layer of texture

These simple pairings not only balance the meal but also make it visually appealing. Happy cooking!

Time Breakdown for Preparing Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Preparation time
Preparing your ingredients for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the chicken and vegetables, as well as mixing your sauce ingredients.

Cooking time
Once you're prepped, the cooking will take an additional 15 minutes. You'll sauté the chicken until golden and combine it with the broccoli and sauce.

Total time
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to serve! Perfect for busy weeknights, don't you think?

Feel free to explore this guide on meal prep for more efficiency tips in your cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Calories per serving

Each serving of Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli contains approximately 443 calories, making it a satisfying and wholesome choice for your main course.

Protein and fat content

This dish packs a punch with 40g of protein and 17g of fat, providing a great balance of nutrients. The healthy fats contribute to satiety, while the lean chicken breast helps in muscle maintenance and growth.

For more insights into healthy eating, you can check out Healthline.

FAQs about Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli can be prepared ahead of time. Cook the chicken and broccoli, and toss them in the sauce just before serving. If you want to save time during the week, consider pre-cooking and storing the components separately. This dish keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

What are alternative protein sources for this recipe?

If you're looking to switch things up, there are plenty of tasty alternatives to chicken! You can try tofu for a vegetarian option, shrimp for seafood lovers, or even beef strips for a heartier meal. Each option will absorb the honey sesame sauce beautifully, ensuring a delicious dish every time.

How do I store leftovers properly?

To enjoy your Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli later, let it cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave until warm, or stir fry in a pan for a few minutes. This dish is perfect for meal prep and quick weekday lunches!

For more tips on meal prepping with honey sesame chicken, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

In summary, Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is not just a delicious meal; it’s a quick and nutritious option perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and vibrant broccoli, this dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors. Try it today and transform your dinner routine!