Nutritious Sesame Chicken Noodles with Broccoli – Easy Recipe

Craving the familiar flavors of Asian takeout but looking for a healthier homemade alternative? Look no further than these Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli. This recipe has become my go-to for satisfying cravings without the guilt or expense of ordering in. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly coated noodles in a savory, sweet, and nutty sauce create a dish that rivals restaurant versions.

My journey to perfecting this recipe has been a delicious learning experience. From finding the ideal sauce-to-noodle ratio to discovering the magic of adding honey for balance, each attempt has brought me closer to a plate of wholesome, flavorful goodness. The ultimate test came when even my takeout-addict brother-in-law couldn’t resist asking for the recipe after seconds, proving that healthy food can indeed be delicious.

Elevate your dining experience by serving these Healthy Sesame Noodles in style. Whether garnishing with sliced bell peppers for crunch or experimenting with protein and veggie variations, this dish is as versatile as it is tasty. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a keeper that will have you feeling proud to skip the delivery app and opt for a homemade meal that hits all the right notes.

Quick Benefits

• Healthy Option: Homemade version of a favorite takeout dish, creating a healthier meal option without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with different proteins (beef, shrimp, tofu), additional vegetables (carrots, bell peppers), and toppings (peanuts, extra garnishes) for varied preferences and dietary needs.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Maintains delicious quality for up to four days when stored properly, with flavors developing and melding over time, making it a great option for meal prep and leftovers.
• Cost-effective and Quick: Saves money compared to ordering takeout, quick preparation for busy weeknights, and proves that healthy food can be tasty and satisfying even for picky eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Nutritious Sesame Chicken Noodles with Broccoli – Easy Recipe Recipe

• Healthy Alternative to Takeout: Enjoy the familiar Asian flavors of sesame noodles in a healthier homemade version that satisfies your cravings without the guilt and expense of ordering in.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Even picky eaters like notorious takeout addicts and kids who avoid veggies will love this flavorful meal.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly coated noodles in a sauce that balances savory, sweet, and nutty elements create a dish that surpasses most restaurant versions.
• Customizable and Versatile: Swap proteins, add extra veggies, or try different garnishes to tailor the dish to your preferences and create exciting variations.
• Impressive Presentation: Elevate your dining experience by serving the noodles in large shallow bowls with extra garnishes or arranging the components separately for a visually appealing dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Enjoy this dish for up to four days, as the flavors develop and meld overnight, making the leftovers even more enjoyable.
• Easy Reheating: A small splash of water before reheating ensures the best texture, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight meals.
• Satisfying and Flavorful: The quick preparation, simple ingredients, and outstanding taste make this recipe a must-have in your regular rotation – and bypassing the delivery app adds an extra sense of accomplishment.

Ingredients for Nutritious Sesame Chicken Noodles with Broccoli – Easy Recipe

For the Noodles and Protein

• 10 oz. linguine pasta, uncooked
• 1.5 lb chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15g)
• 4 cups frozen broccoli (340g)
• 1 Tbsp ginger, crushed (freshly minced or ginger paste works best, but powder works in a pinch)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 Tbsp sesame oil (28g)
• 3 Tbsp honey (63g)
• 2 tsp sriracha (12g) or a few shakes cayenne pepper (can omit for less spice)
• 3 Tbsp rice vinegar (45g)
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (60g) or coconut aminos

For Garnish

• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
• Green onions, sliced

How to Make Nutritious Sesame Chicken Noodles with Broccoli – Easy Recipe

Step 1: Cook the pasta and broccoli

In a large pot, bring water and salt to a boil. Cook linguine for 6-7 minutes. Add frozen broccoli and cook for 3 more minutes. Drain noodles and broccoli.

Step 2: Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, mix together low sodium soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha (or cayenne pepper if preferred). Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until chicken is no longer pink. Remove skillet from heat.

Step 4: Combine everything

Stir the sauce mixture well to ensure thorough mixing. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and sauce with chicken in the skillet. Stir until pasta is coated and ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the dish. Serve hot.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish maintains its delicious quality for up to four days, and the flavors actually develop and meld overnight, making next-day leftovers even more flavorful. To maintain the best texture when reheating, consider adding a small splash of water before microwaving, and give everything a good stir halfway through heating. If you are preparing this dish specifically for meal prep, it’s recommended to slightly undercook the broccoli to prevent it from becoming too soft when reheated.

As you become more familiar with the recipe, feel free to experiment with creative variations to make the dish your own. Swap the chicken for beef or shrimp, add extra vegetables like julienned carrots or bell peppers, or try a vegetarian version with tofu or edamame beans. To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding crushed peanuts on top instead of sesame seeds or incorporating a tablespoon of peanut butter into the sauce. These variations will keep the dish exciting and versatile for different occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

For ingredient substitutions in this Healthy Sesame Noodles recipe, you can easily switch the linguine pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. This modification will add more fiber or cater to dietary restrictions without compromising the overall flavor of the dish. To make the recipe vegetarian, tofu can be a great substitute for chicken. Additionally, edamame beans can provide a protein boost and add a different texture to the dish.

If you are looking to make the dish more nut-free, consider replacing sesame seeds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch and nutty flavor. Another option is to use tahini paste instead of sesame oil for a milder sesame flavor that is also suitable for those with a sesame allergy. These substitutions can help customize the recipe to suit individual dietary needs while maintaining the essence of the dish’s flavors and textures.

Serving Suggestions

For a visually stunning presentation of these Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli, consider serving them in individual noodle bowls garnished with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions. To enhance the dish’s aesthetic appeal, you can also add a pop of color by placing a few steamed broccoli florets strategically on top of the noodles. This not only elevates the visual appeal but also allows each diner to customize their dish by mixing in the garnishes according to their preference.

To take your Healthy Sesame Noodles to the next level, try serving them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of pickled vegetables. The cool and tangy flavors of the side dishes will complement the rich and savory notes of the noodles, creating a well-balanced meal. Additionally, consider offering a selection of hot sauces or chili oils on the side for those who prefer an extra kick of heat. This interactive dining experience adds a fun twist to the meal and allows everyone to customize their spice level according to their taste preferences.

FAQs for Nutritious Sesame Chicken Noodles with Broccoli – Easy Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta if you prefer. While linguine works well in this recipe, you can also use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.

Is there a substitute for chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with thinly sliced beef, shrimp, tofu, or even edamame beans for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version of this dish, you can omit the sriracha or cayenne pepper completely. You can also reduce the amount of either ingredient to adjust the spice level to your liking.

Can I freeze this Healthy Sesame Noodles dish?

It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Freezing may alter the texture of the noodles and vegetables when reheated, so it’s not recommended for this recipe.

Conclusion

Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli is a dish that truly embodies the essence of homemade comfort food with a healthy twist. The flavors are vibrant, the textures are satisfying, and the aroma is simply irresistible. By taking the time to prepare this meal yourself, you not only gain control over the quality of ingredients but also get to experience the joy of creating something delicious from scratch.

As you continue to explore the world of homemade Asian-inspired cuisine, remember that Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli is just the beginning. Feel free to experiment with different protein options, vegetable combinations, and garnishes to make this dish uniquely yours. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

So, next time you’re craving those familiar takeout flavors, resist the urge to dial the number on that delivery menu and instead head to your kitchen to whip up a batch of Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli. Your taste buds and your body will thank you for it. Bon appétit!

Nutritious Sesame Chicken Noodles with Broccoli – Easy Recipe

Satisfyingly flavorful Healthy Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Broccoli – a guilt-free homemade alternative to takeout that’s sure to impress!

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Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAsian-Inspired

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 servings)

Ingredients

For the Noodles and Protein

• 10 oz. linguine pasta, uncooked
• 1.5 lb chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15g)
• 4 cups frozen broccoli (340g)
• 1 Tbsp ginger, crushed (freshly minced or ginger paste works best, but powder works in a pinch)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 Tbsp sesame oil (28g)
• 3 Tbsp honey (63g)
• 2 tsp sriracha (12g) or a few shakes cayenne pepper (can omit for less spice)
• 3 Tbsp rice vinegar (45g)
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (60g) or coconut aminos

For Garnish

• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
• Green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta and broccoli: In a large pot, bring water and salt to a boil. Cook linguine for 6-7 minutes. Add frozen broccoli and cook for 3 more minutes. Drain noodles and broccoli.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together low sodium soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha (or cayenne pepper if preferred). Set aside.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until chicken is no longer pink. Remove skillet from heat.
4. Combine everything: Stir the sauce mixture well to ensure thorough mixing. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and sauce with chicken in the skillet. Stir until pasta is coated and ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the dish. Serve hot.