Easy Sesame Chicken with Broccoli That Bursts with Flavor

Jenny

the heart behind Family Cooks Club

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The moment the sweet and nutty aroma of sesame chicken mingles with the fresh scent of sautéed broccoli, my kitchen instantly feels like a cozy haven. This Sesame Chicken with Broccoli recipe isn’t just about bold flavors; it’s about bringing a little homemade magic to your weeknight table without the fuss of takeout. Crispy, tender chicken coated in a glossy sesame glaze pairs perfectly with vibrant green broccoli, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress without hours in the kitchen, this recipe hits the spot every time. Let me show you how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser that balances sweet, savory, and fresh in every bite!

Why Choose Sesame Chicken with Broccoli?

Simplicity: This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights. Balanced Flavors: Sweet sesame glaze meets fresh, crisp broccoli for a delightful taste combo. Healthy Twist: Lean chicken and nutrient-packed broccoli make it a nourishing choice. Versatile Dish: Serve with rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own. Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a favorite for family dinners and impressing guests alike!

Easy Sesame Chicken with Broccoli Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli

Chicken breast – Choose boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy bites.
Fresh broccoli florets – Use crisp, bright green broccoli for the best texture and color.
Vegetable oil – Perfect for sautéing the chicken and broccoli evenly without overpowering flavors.

For the Sesame Sauce

Soy sauce – The base for that rich, savory depth in your sesame glaze.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness that beautifully balances the soy sauce’s saltiness.
Sesame oil – Just a splash delivers that unmistakable nutty aroma and flavor.
Garlic, minced – Fresh garlic amps up the savory punch and freshness of the sauce.
Rice vinegar – Provides a subtle tang to brighten the dish and balance the sweetness.
Cornstarch – Essential for thickening the sauce to a glossy, clingy finish.
Sesame seeds – Toasted for garnish, they add a delightful crunch and nuttiness to your Sesame Chicken with Broccoli.

How to Make Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Prep Ingredients: Trim broccoli into bite-sized florets and place in a bowl. Pat chicken dry and cut into 1-inch cubes, then set aside for even cooking and uniform texture.
Heat Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, ensuring the pan is hot before adding chicken for a crisp, golden sear.
Cook Chicken: Add chicken in a single layer and sauté for 4–5 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden brown and cooked through with a juicy interior.
Sauté Broccoli: Push chicken to one side, add a splash of oil if needed, then cook broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

For the Sauce:

Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth, glossy, and free of lumps.
Thicken Sauce: Pour sauce over chicken and broccoli, bring to a gentle boil, then simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy, thickened, and clinging to every piece.
Garnish & Serve: Remove skillet from heat, transfer to a platter, then sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added crunch and a fresh pop of flavor.

Optional: Drizzle extra sesame oil for a richer nutty taste.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sesame Chicken with Broccoli?

Creating the perfect meal means pairing flavors, textures, and colors to bring out the best in every dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft, fluffy jasmine rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite of sesame chicken even more delightful. It offers a fragrant backdrop that complements the dish beautifully.
Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles add a comforting twist, their buttery richness perfectly balancing the sweet and nutty flavors of the sesame chicken. This combination will transport you to a cozy little bistro.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this salad’s vinegar and sesame dressing provides a light contrast to the richness of the chicken, offering a perfect palate cleanser.
Wanton Soup: A warm bowl of wanton soup, delicately seasoned with herbs and spices, enhances the meal with comforting warmth and depth, making your dining experience wonderfully satisfying.
Pickled Radishes: Bright pink pickled radishes add a tangy crunch that cuts through the dish’s sweetness, creating a refreshing balance that’s utterly irresistible.
Chilled Soba Noodles: With their nutty flavor and chewy texture, soba noodles are a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to enjoy a meal that feels both indulgent and light at the same time.
Iced Green Tea: A glass of refreshing iced green tea, subtly sweetened, is an excellent drink to accompany the savory dish, helping you unwind and enjoy every delicious moment.
Matcha Cheesecake: Finish the meal with a slice of creamy matcha cheesecake, its earthy sweetness a delightful end note to the evening that pairs beautifully with the main course.

Make Ahead Options

These Sesame Chicken with Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the broccoli and marinate the chicken in the sesame sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish, simply sauté the chicken until fully cooked, add the broccoli and sauce, and simmer until everything is glossy and flavorful. This prep ahead option allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, ensuring you have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time!

Expert Tips for Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Even Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken into uniform cubes to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.
High Heat Sautéing: Use a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan to get a crispy, golden sear on your chicken without steaming.
Broccoli Texture: Cook broccoli until just tender-crisp to keep its vibrant color and satisfying bite, avoiding mushiness.
Sauce Consistency: Whisk cornstarch thoroughly in the sauce before adding to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy glaze.
Flavor Balance: Adjust honey and vinegar gradually; the perfect sesame chicken with broccoli balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes harmoniously.
Toast Your Seeds: Lightly toast sesame seeds just before garnishing to unlock their nutty aroma and add a delightful crunch.

How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Fridge: Store leftover sesame chicken with broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool before sealing tightly.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water for moisture if needed.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, watch carefully to prevent the chicken from drying out, ensuring your sesame chicken with broccoli stays juicy and delicious.

Sesame Chicken with Broccoli Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on this delightful dish and make it your own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a zesty, spicy kick that brings warmth to each bite.
Veggie Boost: Include additional veggies like bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for added color, crunch, and nutrition.
Honey-Free: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener that perfectly balances the sauce.
Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken in an air fryer for added crispiness with less oil. Simply season and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Peanut Sauce Twist: Swap the sesame sauce for a creamy peanut sauce for an unexpected yet delicious flavor profile.
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of fresh orange or lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish and introduce a refreshing citrus flavor.
Rice Substitution: Instead of traditional rice, serve atop cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lightened-up take that still satisfies.

Sesame Chicken with Broccoli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for Sesame Chicken with Broccoli?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Look for pieces that are firm and pink without any dark spots or unpleasant odors to ensure freshness and tenderness after cooking.

Can I store leftover Sesame Chicken with Broccoli in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This will keep the flavors vibrant and the chicken juicy. Just make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing.

Is it possible to freeze Sesame Chicken with Broccoli for longer storage?
Yes, freezing is a great option! Let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Seal tightly, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve freshness.

What if my sauce turns out too thick or lumpy?
No worries! To fix thick or lumpy sauce, whisk the cornstarch thoroughly with the wet ingredients before adding it to the skillet. If it’s already thickened too much, stir in a little warm water or broth gradually until you reach that perfect glossy consistency. Keep stirring so your sauce stays smooth and coats every bite beautifully.

Is Sesame Chicken with Broccoli safe for pets or those with allergies?
This dish contains soy sauce and garlic, which aren’t suitable for dogs or cats, so it’s best to keep it away from pets. For allergy concerns, this recipe includes gluten (soy sauce) and sesame, common allergens—gluten-free tamari and sesame oil substitutes can be used to adapt it safely for sensitive eaters.