Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Introduction
Making easy and healthy meals at home doesn’t have to be a challenge. The Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli recipe is perfect for when you’re craving something flavorful yet light, and it can be prepared in almost no time at all! Packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a delicious sesame-inspired sauce, this dish truly hits all the marks for a satisfying homemade dinner. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding your family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
The Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli recipe doesn’t require a long list of complicated ingredients. Here’s what you need to make it:
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – 1 ½ pounds
• Fresh broccoli florets – 3 generous cups
• Low-sodium soy sauce – ⅓ cup
• Honey – about ⅓ cup or as desired for sweetness
• Toasted sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch mixed with water for thickening (also called a slurry) – 2 teaspoons of each
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) – a pinch or two
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish – as desired
With just these simple items, you have all the flavors of a takeout dish but with a healthier twist. Don’t forget to measure everything out ahead of time to make cooking a breeze!
Prep Time
One of the best things about making this recipe is how little preparation is required. All you need to do is chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and wash or trim your broccoli florets. Preparing everything beforehand ensures you can whip this dish up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights!
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this recipe is incredibly short, making it perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Once your ingredients are prepped and ready to go, this dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish!
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: This recipe yields about 4 generous servings, though it can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs.
Your family or friends will love this fast and easy meal. Pair it with rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles for a complete and filling dinner!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
– In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and cornstarch. This will be used later in the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
– Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
– Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
Step 3: Add Broccoli
– Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir frequently while cooking with the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes. This helps combine the flavors.
Step 4: Stir in the Sauce
– Reduce the heat to medium-low. Slowly pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli in the skillet.
– Stir well to ensure all components are coated evenly. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes glossy.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
– Make sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The broccoli should also be tender but still crisp.
Step 6: Serve
– Remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the sesame chicken and broccoli over rice or noodles, if desired.
– Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish before serving.
Notes
Note on Soy Sauce
– Reduced-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. Regular soy sauce can make the dish too salty.
Note on Adjusting Spice
– The amount of sriracha can be adjusted to suit your spice preference. Add more or less depending on your tolerance.
Note for Substitutions
– If honey is unavailable, you may substitute it with maple syrup or another sweetener of choice.
– Cornstarch can be replaced with arrowroot powder as a thickener.
Note for Vegetables
– If you prefer other vegetables, snow peas, carrots, or bell peppers can be added for variety. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the type of vegetables.
Note for Storing Leftovers
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Note for Serving Options
– This dish pairs well with steamed white rice, brown rice, or Asian noodles. Cauliflower rice can also be used as a low-carb alternative.
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Cook techniques
Blanching the Broccoli
Briefly blanch the broccoli in boiling water to slightly soften it before stir-frying. This ensures that it cooks quickly but retains its crunch and vibrant green color.
Stir-Frying Chicken
Stir-fry the chicken in a hot skillet or wok with a small amount of oil. Cooking over high heat ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly without drying out.
Creating the Sauce
Whisk together the sauce ingredients separately before adding to the skillet. This ensures the flavors are evenly combined and makes it easier to coat the chicken and broccoli.
Tossing and Coating
Once the sauce is added to the chicken and broccoli, toss everything thoroughly to make sure every piece is well coated with the flavorful sesame sauce.
Simmering for Flavor
Let the chicken and broccoli simmer briefly in the sauce. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and ensures the flavors are absorbed into the ingredients.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to prevent excess liquid from diluting the sauce.
What can I use instead of sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with a neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work just as well. They are also juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To ensure the recipe is gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative in place of regular soy sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, include red pepper flakes, chili garlic sauce, or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion
This quick and easy Sesame Chicken and Broccoli recipe is perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a flavorful and satisfying meal. With its balance of sweet and savory flavors alongside crisp-tender broccoli, this dish is both healthy and delicious. Its simplicity means you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in just 15 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy weekdays.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Pair this Sesame Chicken with a simple Lemon Garlic Broccoli side dish for a refreshing and tangy combination.
Cauliflower Fried Rice
For a low-carb twist, serve this chicken and broccoli with Cauliflower Fried Rice to keep the meal light but satisfying.
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Create a variety by complementing this recipe with Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings for a fuller spread.
Asian Sesame Noodles
Serve the Sesame Chicken alongside Asian Sesame Noodles for a hearty pairing that’s full of bold flavors.
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Add crunch to your meal with Vegetable Spring Rolls as a starter or side to the sesame chicken.
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For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu and prepare a Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry.
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Combine this Sesame Chicken recipe with Cashew Chicken for a nutty and flavorful pairing idea.
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Put together General Tso’s Chicken with your Sesame Chicken for a rich and indulgent meal option.