Name: Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves minced garlic; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 4-6 cups vegetable or canola oil for frying; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger; 4 cloves minced garlic; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp cold water; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; 2 large fresh broccoli crowns, cut into bite-sized florets; ½ tsp salt; Water; 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish); ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions (for garnish)

Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli. If there’s one dish that consistently brings a smile to my face and joy to my family’s dinner table, it’s this delightful combination of flavors and textures. I fondly recall the first time I savored the irresistible blend of sweet honey, aromatic sesame, and savory soy coating perfectly tender pieces of chicken, all beautifully complemented by crisp-tender broccoli. It was an instant favorite, a dish that masterfully bridges the gap between comforting takeout and wholesome, quick-prep home cooking. This particular recipe for Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli isn’t just a meal; it’s a testament to the global appeal of Asian-inspired cuisine, drawing its delicious roots from time-honored traditions where ingredients like sesame, honey, and soy have been culinary mainstays for centuries across various Asian cultures. People absolutely adore this dish for its incredible balance of tastes—that perfect sweet and savory glaze, the satisfying chew of the chicken, and the vibrant freshness of the broccoli. Moreover, its remarkable convenience, often coming together in a single pan or wok, makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something truly special without compromising on health or flavor. I am confident this recipe will become a cherished staple in your home, offering a vibrant, flavorful experience that satisfies everyone.

Ingredients:

For the Honey Sesame Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 4-6 cups vegetable oil or canola oil for frying (or enough to fill your pan to 2 inches)
For the Irresistible Honey Sesame Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
For the Vibrant Steamed Broccoli:
- 2 large heads broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Water for steaming
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced

Preparing the Honey Sesame Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Toss everything gently to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This marinade is going to infuse so much flavor into our chicken, making it incredibly tender and fragrant. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for an even deeper flavor, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. Trust me, this step is crucial for achieving that amazing depth of flavor in your “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli.”
Prepare the Dredging Station: While the chicken is marinating, set up your dredging station. In a shallow dish, whisk together ½ cup of cornstarch and ½ cup of all-purpose flour. In another shallow dish, lightly beat the 2 large eggs. This two-step coating process is key to getting that wonderfully crispy exterior on our chicken pieces.
Coat the Chicken: Working in small batches, take the marinated chicken pieces and first dredge them in the cornstarch and flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess. Then, dip each piece into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, return the chicken to the cornstarch and flour mixture for a second coating. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated a second time. This double-dredging technique creates a robust crust that fries up beautifully, sealing in the chicken’s juices and giving it that desired crispiness. Lay the coated chicken pieces on a clean plate or baking sheet as you go, making sure they don’t touch too much.
Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable or canola oil to reach about 2 inches in depth. Place the pan over medium-high heat. We’re looking for the oil to reach a temperature of around 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of the flour mixture into it; if it sizzles vigorously but doesn’t immediately burn, your oil is ready for frying. Do not rush this step; proper oil temperature is vital for perfectly cooked and crispy chicken.
Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature too quickly, leading to soggy, greasy chicken instead of the delightfully crispy texture we’re aiming for. Fry for 4-6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the crispy chicken to a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. This helps keep the chicken beautifully crisp. Repeat with the remaining chicken until all pieces are perfectly fried. This crispy chicken is the star of our “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” dish.

Crafting the Irresistible Honey Sesame Sauce:

Combine Sauce Ingredients (except cornstarch slurry): In a medium saucepan, whisk together ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of grated fresh ginger, and 4 cloves of minced garlic. Give it a good whisk until the honey is fully dissolved and all ingredients are well combined. The aroma already hints at the deliciousness to come!
Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small separate bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until completely smooth. This is our thickening agent. It’s essential to mix cornstarch with cold water first to prevent lumps when added to hot liquid.
Simmer and Thicken the Sauce: Place the saucepan with the sauce mixture over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Once it begins to simmer, give your cornstarch slurry a quick re-whisk (cornstarch tends to settle) and slowly pour it into the simmering sauce while continuously whisking. Continue to cook and whisk for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water; if it’s not thick enough, you can make a tiny bit more slurry and add it in. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. This sauce is the magic that truly brings our “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” recipe to life!
Taste and Adjust: Now is the time to taste your sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary. Do you prefer it a little sweeter? Add a touch more honey. A bit more tang? A splash more rice vinegar. A touch more umami? A tiny bit more soy sauce. Make it perfect for your palate!

Blanching the Vibrant Broccoli:

Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli heads thoroughly under cold running water. Cut them into uniform, bite-sized florets. Aim for roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Discard the thick stems or save them for another use.
Steam the Broccoli: Fill a large pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Place a steamer basket into the pot, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket. Add the broccoli florets to the steamer basket and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and a vibrant green color. You want it cooked enough to be tender but still retain a slight bite, not mushy.
Optional: Ice Bath for Bright Green Color:

For exceptionally vibrant green broccoli, immediately transfer the steamed florets to a bowl of ice water after steaming. Let them sit for 1-2 minutes, then drain thoroughly. This “shocks” the broccoli, stopping the cooking process and locking in that beautiful bright green hue. While optional, it makes a visual difference in your “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” presentation.

Bringing It All Together: Your Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli Masterpiece!

Toss the Chicken with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, gently add the crispy fried chicken pieces. Pour about two-thirds of your warm honey sesame sauce over the chicken. Toss carefully to coat every piece evenly. You want the chicken to be gloriously coated in that sticky, sweet, and savory sauce, but still retain some of its crispiness. If you like your chicken extra saucy, you can add a bit more of the remaining sauce now.
Combine with Broccoli: Add the tender-crisp steamed broccoli florets to the bowl with the sauced chicken. Gently toss again to combine, ensuring some of that delicious “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” sauce coats the broccoli as well. Be careful not to break up the broccoli florets.
Serve Immediately: Transfer your glorious “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” to serving plates. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, when the chicken is at its crispiest and the broccoli is perfectly tender-crisp.
Garnish and Enjoy: Drizzle with the remaining honey sesame sauce if desired. Generously sprinkle with the extra toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve this incredible “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. You’ve just created a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen! This “Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli” is truly a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will adore.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the simple steps of creating a dish that truly stands out, not just for its incredible flavor profile but also for its sheer versatility and ease of preparation. This isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen in your kitchen, promising to deliver a burst of joy with every single bite. I can genuinely say that this recipe for Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli has become a firm favorite in my own home, and for very good reason.

Why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, first and foremost, the sauce is nothing short of magical. It strikes that perfect balance of sweet from the honey, savory from the soy, and nutty from the sesame, all enhanced by the aromatic touch of fresh ginger and garlic. It coats every piece of tender chicken and every vibrant, crisp-tender floret of broccoli beautifully, ensuring that each mouthful is packed with an irresistible umami punch. You won’t find yourself with a bland bite, that’s for sure! It’s also incredibly satisfying, feeling both hearty and wholesome, a rarity when you’re looking for something quick and easy. Furthermore, it’s a fantastic way to get those greens in, making it a delicious stealthy victory for parents and health-conscious eaters alike. The quick cooking time means you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on the table faster than you could order takeout, saving you time, money, and giving you complete control over the ingredients. It’s a wonderful solution for busy evenings when you crave something homemade and comforting.

Transform Your Meal with These Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations!

While this dish is absolutely phenomenal on its own, it’s also a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. My go-to serving suggestion is always a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, which perfectly soaks up all that glorious sauce, ensuring no drop of that deliciousness goes to waste. Brown rice or quinoa are equally excellent choices if you’re looking for a boost of fiber and nutrients, adding a lovely textural contrast. For those on a low-carb journey, don’t hesitate to serve it over cauliflower rice or even spiralized zucchini noodles – the flavors are robust enough to stand up to any base you choose, making it incredibly adaptable to various dietary needs. This adaptability is truly one of its hidden strengths!

But let’s talk about variations, because this is where the real fun begins and you can truly make this recipe your own! If you want to bulk up the vegetable content even more, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange would add a beautiful pop of color and sweetness), crisp snap peas for an extra fresh crunch, or even some shredded carrots or baby corn during the last few minutes of cooking. These additions will not only enhance the visual appeal but also boost the nutritional value and textural complexity. You could swap out the chicken for other proteins too: succulent shrimp would cook even faster for an even quicker meal, firm tofu would absorb the sauce beautifully for a fantastic vegetarian or vegan option, or thinly sliced beef could also be a fantastic substitute for a richer flavor profile. For a little extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha swirled into the sauce at the end can elevate the experience for spice lovers, adding a welcome kick without overwhelming the dish. Don’t forget the garnishes! A generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds another layer of nutty flavor and texture, while freshly chopped green onions or cilantro provide a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish, making it look as good as it tastes. Imagine serving this at your next family dinner or even prepping it for your weekly lunches – it reheats wonderfully, making it an ideal candidate for efficient meal planning throughout your busy week.

Now It’s Your Turn! Get Cooking and Share Your Culinary Journey!

I truly hope this recipe inspires you to step into your kitchen and give it a try. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from creating something so delicious and wholesome from scratch, and I promise you, this particular dish delivers that feeling in spades. Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking for a new go-to or just starting your cooking adventure, the straightforward steps will guide you to a triumphant meal. Don’t be intimidated; embrace the process, savor the aromas that will fill your kitchen, and most importantly, enjoy the incredible flavors that await you at the dinner table. I am absolutely confident that once you’ve tasted the tender chicken and the perfectly cooked broccoli coated in that delectable honey sesame sauce, you’ll be adding this to your regular rotation, perhaps even becoming a staple that your family requests again and again.

Once you’ve whipped up your own batch of this delightful Honey Sesame Chicken Broccoli, I would absolutely love to hear from you! What did you think? Did you make any exciting variations or find a new favorite way to serve it? Perhaps you discovered a secret ingredient that took it to the next level? Please, don’t keep your culinary triumphs to yourself! Share your experiences, your photos, and your tips in the comments section below. Let’s build a vibrant community of home cooks who inspire each other to create amazing meals every day. Your feedback truly means the world to me and helps others discover new ways to enjoy their cooking journey, sparking new ideas and fostering a shared passion for good food. So, go forth, make some magic in your kitchen, and come back to tell me all about it – I can’t wait to read your stories!