Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli

Honey sesame chicken broccoli is my answer for quick weeknight dinners when I want something comforting yet bright and fresh. The sticky sweet sauce coats every bite of juicy chicken and tender broccoli and it is a favorite in my kitchen when cravings strike for takeout flavor but with homemade goodness.

The first time I made this I could not believe how much my family raved about it. Ever since we have kept all the basics for the sauce on hand so this meal is always just a few steps away after a long day.

Ingredients

• Low sodium soy sauce: brings all the savory flavor but with less salt Try finding naturally brewed
• Sesame oil: gives aroma and a deep nutty note Always pick toasted sesame oil for the best flavor
• Honey: brings a thick rich sweetness Use a mild variety so it does not overpower
• Rice vinegar: brightens the sauce Opt for unseasoned if possible
• Fresh ginger and garlic: are essential for their warmth and punch Only use freshly grated or minced for the cleanest taste
• Sesame seeds: add a touch of texture and classic flavor Toast them lightly for extra aroma if you like
• Cornstarch: thickens the sauce smoothly Check for freshness so it blends easily
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: is lean yet stays juicy after quick browning Go for the freshest chicken you can get
• All purpose flour plus cornstarch: coat the chicken for a crisp crust Use unbleached flour when possible
• Broccoli florets: offer color crunch and soak up the sauce beautifully Pick tightly bunched firm green crowns
• Olive oil: for searing keeps everything moist and golden Go with extra virgin for the best flavor
• Green onions: for brightness and fresh finish Choose crisp deeply green stalks
• Salt and pepper: bring out every ingredient’s pop Use freshly ground pepper for maximum kick

Instructions

Prep the Broccoli:

Fill a large pot with several inches of water Add the broccoli florets and about a teaspoon of salt Cover the pot and bring to a simmer Once simmering reduce heat to low and let the broccoli steam for six minutes Check a piece with a fork to ensure it is bright green and tender crisp Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water so it stays vivid and stops cooking

Prepare the Sauce:

In a small bowl combine soy sauce water toasted sesame oil honey rice vinegar freshly grated ginger minced garlic sesame seeds and cornstarch Stir until the cornstarch fully dissolves and everything is evenly mixed Set the bowl nearby so it is ready to use

Coat the Chicken:

Place the chicken breast pieces into a large zip top bag In another small bowl whisk together the cornstarch all purpose flour salt and pepper Pour this dry mix into the bag with the chicken Seal the bag and shake it around so every piece is completely and evenly dusted with the mixture This ensures a golden crust once it is cooked

Brown the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat Once the oil shimmers scatter the coated chicken evenly in a single layer Let it sear without touching for two or three minutes until the underside is deep golden Using tongs flip each piece so each side gets color and the interior cooks through Continue flipping until all sides are caramel toned and the center is cooked with no pink

Sauce and Simmer:

Pour the prepared sauce directly over the cooked chicken pieces in the pan Keep the heat at medium low and toss everything gently so the chicken gets fully coated Watch as the sauce starts to bubble and thicken bubbling for two or three minutes Stir constantly so nothing burns Once glossy and thick switch off the heat

Combine with Broccoli and Serve:

If your skillet is roomy add all the broccoli right in Toss everything together so each floret is glazed and speckled with sauce If you need more space use a large mixing bowl to gently combine chicken and broccoli Top with a generous handful of freshly diced green onion Serve right away while everything is piping hot

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I absolutely love how the honey in this recipe gives both sheen and real flavor Instead of just tasting sugary it brings a gentle lightness that lets the ginger and sesame truly shine My daughter always comes wandering in when she smells the sauce coming together and it reminds me how food brings everyone to the kitchen

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge To reheat sprinkle a teaspoon of water over the chicken and broccoli to loosen the sauce and microwave or gently warm in a skillet I sometimes eat cold leftovers for lunch and the flavors are still delicious

Ingredient substitutions

Swap maple syrup for the honey if you prefer a different sweetness Gluten free tamari and arrowroot powder will work instead of soy sauce and cornstarch If you do not have fresh ginger a little ground ginger can fill in just use half the amount

Serving suggestions

This is excellent over hot jasmine rice or steamed brown rice Try serving with a quick cucumber salad for brightness or double the broccoli for a veggie forward meal For spice lovers a drizzle of chili crisp or a dash of sriracha on top is always a hit in my home

Cultural context

This recipe is inspired by the American Chinese classic but with a lighter homemade spin It skips deep frying in favor of skillet browning and uses honey for the signature stickiness The sesame profile and hint of vinegar keep the dish balanced and never too heavy

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Let the honey and sesame aroma guide you to the table This weeknight favorite brings comfort in every glossy bite

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken moist?

Coat chicken with cornstarch and flour before pan-frying. Avoid overcooking to maintain juiciness.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work well, staying tender and flavorful through high-heat cooking.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?

Mix cornstarch into cool liquid before adding it to the pan, then stir constantly while heating.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles pair perfectly with the flavors and sauce.

→ Can broccoli be substituted?

Swap with broccolini, snap peas, or even bell peppers for a colorful variation.