Name: Irresistible Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup honey (for the sauce); 1/4 cup soy sauce (for the sauce); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional); Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

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This sticky honey garlic chicken with broccoli is not just a meal; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that promises to excite your taste buds. The combination of sweet and savory sauce enveloping tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli creates a satisfying experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Having made this dish countless times for my family, I can attest to its never-failing ability to please both kids and adults alike.

Irresistible Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli 10

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to whip up this dish in your kitchen. Firstly, it’s fabulously quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. In addition to being time-efficient, this recipe is budget-friendly, utilizing affordable ingredients while still offering impressive flavor. With its balance of protein and vegetables, it’s also a health-conscious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

“This dish is a weeknight savior! It’s quick, easy, and my kids can’t get enough of the sweet sauce!” – A delighted home cook.

How to Make Irresistible Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli

The cooking process for this dish is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. Essentially, you’ll marinate the chicken to infuse it with a flavorful sauce, stir-fry the broccoli to crisp-tender perfection, and then combine everything with a rich honey garlic sauce that brings the dish together beautifully.

Ingredients

To make this stellar dish, gather the following key ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup honey (for the sauce)
1/4 cup soy sauce (for the sauce)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions, such as using a gluten-free soy sauce or adding more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for additional nutrition.

Directions

Preparing this dish unfolds over several simple steps:

Step 1

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper.

Step 2

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3

While the chicken marinates, prepare the broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized florets.

Step 4

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 5

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F “74°C”). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6

Next, add the broccoli florets to the same skillet. Stir occasionally until they’re crisp-tender, which takes about 5-7 minutes. If the broccoli begins to stick, pour in a tablespoon of water and cover for a minute to steam it.

Step 7

Incorporate the remaining 4 minced garlic cloves into the skillet with the broccoli and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 8

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.

Step 9

Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly. The sauce should thicken within 1-2 minutes.

Step 10

Stir in red pepper flakes, if desired.

Step 11

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated in the sticky honey garlic sauce. Allow it to cook for another minute or two for the sauce to set.

Step 12

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you’d like. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or noodles.

How to Serve Irresistible Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli

When it comes to serving this dish, you have endless possibilities. For a harmonious meal, plate the sticky honey garlic chicken over a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or creamy white quinoa. Roasted sesame seeds and vibrant green onions not only add flavor but also provide an appealing splash of color. Consider pairing it with a light cucumber salad or steamed dumplings to enhance the dining experience.

How to Store

After enjoying this delectable dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken and broccoli in sealed containers for up to 3 months. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume within a month. When reheating, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F “74°C”) to ensure safety.

Tips to Make

For those looking to elevate their cooking game, here are some pro tips:

Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinating overnight can intensify the flavor.
Cut Chicken Uniformly: Ensuring even cuts not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also makes for better presentation.
Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, feel free to toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts before serving.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amounts of honey in the marinade and sauce to suit your palate.

Variations

To explore different flavor profiles, consider the following variations:

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or spicy Sriracha to the marinade for heat.
Citrus Zing: A splash of lime or lemon juice can provide a refreshing kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and ensure you use a plant-based sauce.
Rice Variations: Swap out traditional white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli is simple yet impressive—sure to become a staple in your household. Not only does it highlight the balance of flavors, but it also brings together family and friends around the dinner table. I encourage you to try this recipe, and if you do, please share your thoughts in the comments!

FAQ

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, plus marination time.

Can I substitute the soy sauce for a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can use tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prepping. Just reheat portions as needed for a nutritious and delicious meal throughout the week.

Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just combine and stir-fry when you’re ready to serve for a fresh and quick weeknight meal.

Irresistible Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available

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Description

A delightful fusion of sweet and savory chicken, marinated in a honey garlic sauce, paired with crisp-tender broccoli for a quick and budget-friendly meal.

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 minced garlic cloves, sesame oil, ginger, and black pepper.
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
While the chicken marinates, prepare the broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized florets.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Add the broccoli florets to the same skillet and cook until crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes. If it begins to stick, add a tablespoon of water and cover to steam for a minute.
Add the remaining 4 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with broccoli and cook for about 30 seconds.
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
Stir in red pepper flakes, if desired.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and allow to cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Serve immediately.