Delicious Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Craving the comforting flavors of Chinese takeout but want a homemade twist? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, offering that perfect balance of sweet honey, nutty sesame, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s not only faster than delivery but also tastier!

The magic of this Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli lies in the crispy chicken coated with a glossy honey sesame sauce and the perfectly steamed broccoli that adds a fresh contrast to each bite. Even the pickiest eaters in my household devour this dish, especially when they taste how the flavors come together harmoniously. If you’re looking to recreate that restaurant-quality dish at home, follow this recipe for a delightful culinary experience that will satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones.

Quick Benefits

• Authentic Chinese Flavors: Enjoy the sweet, savory taste of Chinese cuisine in a homemade dish.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, faster than takeout but bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish; kids enjoy the broccoli coated in the delicious sauce.
• Versatile: Easily customize with different veggies or protein like shrimp or tofu for a varied meal experience.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Recipe Recipe

• Authentic Chinese Flavors at Home: Enjoy the satisfying sweet and savory flavors of Chinese takeout without having to order in.
• Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner: Ready in about 30 minutes, faster than delivery but with a much better taste.
• Crispy Chicken with Glossy Sauce: Achieve a perfect crispy exterior on the chicken that holds onto the glossy honey sesame sauce beautifully.
• Kid-Friendly Vegetable Dish: Even picky eaters will love the tender-crisp broccoli coated in the incredible honey sesame sauce.
• Rave Reviews from Family: Impress your loved ones with a dish so authentic that they may think you ordered takeout. It’s a guaranteed hit!
• Perfect Texture Balance: Attention to detail in cooking the chicken and steaming the broccoli ensures a delightful texture contrast in every bite.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily swap out vegetables or proteins to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the broccoli and sauce in advance for a quicker dinner assembly, and enjoy the leftovers reheated for up to three days.

Ingredients for Delicious Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Honey Sesame Sauce

• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

Chicken and Vegetables

• 1-1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
• 1 tsp salt for steaming broccoli
• 2 whole green onions, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot flour
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 6 cups broccoli florets (about 2 crowns)
• 1/2 tsp salt

How to Make Delicious Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Steam the Broccoli

Place broccoli florets in a large pot with 2-3 inches of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cover and bring to a simmer, then steam on low for 6 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain in a colander, rinse with cold water to maintain color and texture.

Step 2: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce

Combine soy sauce, water, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, cornstarch, and sesame seeds in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Place chicken pieces in a large plastic bag. Combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add mixture to bag with chicken, seal, and shake until evenly coated. This coating will create a golden crust.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil until shimmering. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden. Flip and continue cooking until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and pour the sauce over the cooked chicken. Toss to coat and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

If your skillet is big enough, gently combine the steamed broccoli with the saucy chicken. Otherwise, transfer everything to a large serving bowl and mix well. Sprinkle with diced green onions and serve hot.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed the delicious honey sesame chicken and broccoli dish, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently either in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. Please note that while the flavors will still be fantastic upon reheating, the crispy coating on the chicken may not retain its initial texture.

To maintain the best quality of the dish, it is recommended to store the chicken and broccoli separately from any rice or noodles you may have served it with. This separation helps prevent the broccoli and chicken from becoming overly soggy as they sit in the sauce. Storing components separately also allows for more control over the reheating process, ensuring each element is heated through properly without compromising texture.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can continue to enjoy the delightful flavors of the honey sesame chicken and broccoli even after the initial serving. Remember to store in an airtight container, keep components separate if possible, and reheat gently to preserve the integrity of this homemade takeout favorite.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Additionally, for a healthier option, you can replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. These alternatives will still provide sweetness to balance the flavors of the dish.

For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can swap the chicken with firm tofu or seitan. Both options will absorb the flavors of the sauce well and provide a satisfying protein component. If you prefer a different vegetable instead of broccoli, consider using snow peas, bell peppers, or even cauliflower florets. The sauce pairs nicely with a variety of vegetables, allowing you to customize the dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the honey sesame chicken and broccoli over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice garnished with a sprinkle of additional sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. The vibrant colors and textures will not only make for a visually appealing dish but also enhance the overall flavor profile.

For a fun twist, consider wrapping the honey sesame chicken and broccoli in lettuce cups for a hand-held option. Simply scoop a spoonful of the chicken and broccoli mixture into a lettuce leaf, sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and diced green onions, and fold it up like a taco. This interactive serving style adds an element of playfulness to the meal, making it perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

FAQs for Delicious Honey Sesame Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu if you want to change up the protein. The honey sesame sauce pairs well with different proteins, giving you options to customize the dish.

How can I make the sauce thicker without making it too gloppy?

If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. If it becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to reach the desired consistency. The honey in the sauce helps create a glossy finish that makes it look restaurant-quality.

Can I prepare the broccoli and sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can steam the broccoli and prepare the sauce earlier in the day. However, it’s best to cook the chicken fresh for optimal texture. Having the prep work done in advance can make the final assembly quicker for a weeknight meal.

How should I store and reheat leftovers of this dish?

Leftovers of honey sesame chicken and broccoli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. While the coating may not be as crispy when reheated, the flavors will still be fantastic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds – the convenience of a quick weeknight meal and the flavors that rival your favorite Chinese restaurant. The crispy chicken coated in a glossy honey sesame sauce, paired with tender-crisp broccoli, creates a harmony of tastes and textures that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Don’t be discouraged by any initial mishaps in the kitchen – mastering the timing and techniques will elevate this dish to a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Remember, a little patience and attention to detail go a long way in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli.

So, next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, why not try making this delicious dish at home? With a little practice, you’ll soon be enjoying a homemade meal that is not only healthier but also bursting with flavor. Give it a try and savor the satisfaction of creating a delightful culinary experience right in your own kitchen with this Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli recipe.