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Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli – Sweet, Savory, and Better Than Takeout

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent yet balanced, Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is the answer. This dish delivers tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a glossy honey-sesame sauce that’s perfectly sweet, savory, and aromatic. It’s inspired by classic Asian-style flavors but made at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. What makes this recipe stand out is its perfect balance. The natural sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, while broccoli adds freshness and crunch. The sauce lightly coats every bite without being heavy, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep. This honey sesame chicken recipe is: Fast and easy to prepare Family-friendly Great for leftovers Packed with flavor and texture If you love easy chicken dinners, healthy takeout-style meals, and one-pan recipes, this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Prepare and measure all ingredients before cooking.
Protein
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
  • 6 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 green onions sliced
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons water
For Coating & Thickening
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot flour
Seasonings
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Fats
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ingredient Notes:
  • Arrowroot flour can replace cornstarch for a lighter texture.
  • Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth to the sauce.

Equipment

  • To prepare Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli, you’ll need:
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls (2)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Tip: A wide skillet allows the sauce to reduce evenly and coat the chicken perfectly.

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps carefully for a perfectly glazed honey sesame chicken and broccoli.
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
  1. Place chicken pieces in a bowl.
  2. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Toss with:
  4. All-purpose flour
  5. 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot flour
  6. Ensure chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Make the Honey Sesame Sauce
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  2. Honey
  3. Soy sauce
  4. Rice vinegar
  5. Sesame oil
  6. Water
  7. 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  8. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken in a single layer.
  3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
  1. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets.
  2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender.
  3. Add a splash of water if needed to steam lightly.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
  1. Add garlic and ginger to the skillet.
  2. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine Everything
  1. Return chicken to the skillet with broccoli.
  2. Pour honey sesame sauce over everything.
  3. Stir gently to coat evenly.
Step 7: Simmer and Thicken
  1. Reduce heat to medium.
  2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 8: Finish
  1. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  2. Add sliced green onions.
  3. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat
Add a small splash of water to loosen the sauce
Tip: Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender.
🥄 Variations
Customize your honey sesame chicken and broccoli with these options:
Extra Crispy Chicken
Pan-fry chicken a bit longer before adding sauce
Spicy Honey Sesame
Add chili flakes or hot sauce
Vegetable Swap
Use snap peas, green beans, or bell peppers
Low-Sugar Option
Reduce honey slightly and add extra ginger
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch only
❓ 10 FAQs
Is honey sesame chicken sweet?
Yes, but it’s balanced with savory flavors.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work very well.
Why coat the chicken with flour and starch?
It helps create a light crust and thickens the sauce.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Fresh works best, but frozen can be used if thawed.
Is this recipe healthy?
It’s balanced with lean protein and vegetables.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, it stores and reheats well.
What can I serve it with?
Rice, noodles, or quinoa pair perfectly.
Can I skip sesame oil?
Sesame oil adds flavor, but it can be reduced.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s sweet and mild.
🏁 Conclusion
This honey sesame chicken and broccoli recipe delivers everything you love about takeout-style meals, with fresher ingredients and better balance. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a glossy honey-sesame sauce come together in one skillet for a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving something flavorful and quick, this recipe hits all the right notes. Once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your most reliable easy dinner recipes.