Name: Honey Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 3 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1/4 cup honey; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp sesame seeds

Golden honey sesame chicken with bright green broccoli in cast iron skillet | lonerecipes.com

I first discovered this honey sesame chicken recipe during my college days when I was desperately trying to recreate my favorite takeout dish at home. What started as a budget-friendly alternative became so much better than the original! The way the honey caramelizes slightly in the pan, creating this glossy, amber coating on each piece of chicken, is pure magic. The broccoli adds not just color but a wonderful contrast in texture - crisp against the tender chicken. I love how the sesame seeds toast slightly in the pan, releasing their nutty aroma. Every time I make this, I'm transported back to that tiny apartment kitchen where I first perfected this recipe. It's become my signature dish that friends always request when they come over for dinner.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely love about this honey sesame chicken is how it hits every flavor note perfectly - sweet, savory, nutty, and fresh all in one bite. It's incredibly versatile too; I've made it with different vegetables when broccoli wasn't available, and it always turns out amazing. The recipe is forgiving enough for beginners but tasty enough to impress food lovers. I adore how the honey creates this beautiful caramelized coating that's not too sticky or overwhelming. The sesame oil adds this deep, nutty flavor that you just can't get from regular cooking oil. Plus, it's a complete meal in one pan, which means less cleanup - always a win in my book! The vibrant colors make it as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Chicken breast: Cut into uniform cubes for even cooking
Fresh broccoli: Cut into bite-sized florets, stems trimmed
Honey: Use pure honey for best flavor and natural sweetness
Soy sauce: Provides the umami base for the sauce
Sesame oil: Adds nutty flavor and authentic Asian taste
Garlic: Mince fresh for aromatic depth
Sesame seeds: Toast lightly for extra crunch and presentation

Let's Make These Together

Prep the chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breast into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes every bite perfect. Toss the cubed chicken with cornstarch - this simple step creates that amazing crispy exterior that makes restaurant-style chicken at home.

Create the sauce: Whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl. The honey will provide natural sweetness while the soy sauce adds that essential umami depth. The sesame oil brings everything together with its distinctive nutty flavor.

Cook to perfection: Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown. Add the broccoli and watch it turn that beautiful bright green color. Finally, pour in your sauce and let everything come together in a glossy, flavorful coating.

Recipe picture — Asian style honey sesame chicken and broccoli stir fry in black pan | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I remember the first time I made this recipe on a rainy Tuesday evening when I was craving takeout but didn't want to leave the house. I had some leftover chicken in the fridge and fresh broccoli that needed to be used up. The magic happened when I mixed that honey and sesame oil together - the aroma filled my entire kitchen! My family gathered around just from the smell alone. Now it's our go-to comfort food whenever we want something special but don't want to spend hours cooking. The best part? My kids actually ask for seconds on the broccoli!

Perfect Pairings

This honey sesame chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up that incredible glaze. For a complete Asian-inspired meal, serve alongside vegetable spring rolls or pot stickers. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing cuts through the richness perfectly. For beverages, try green tea, sake, or even a crisp white wine like Riesling that complements the sweet and savory flavors.

Sweet glazed chicken pieces mixed with fresh broccoli florets garnished with sesame seeds | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?: Yes, but thaw and drain it first. Fresh broccoli gives better texture and color, but frozen works in a pinch.
→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?: The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have no pink in the center when cut.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?: Absolutely! Just substitute tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for regular soy sauce.
→ What's the best way to store leftovers?: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the broccoli.
→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?: Yes! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots work great. Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetable's texture needs.

Conclusion

This honey sesame chicken with broccoli is the perfect weeknight meal that brings restaurant flavors to your home kitchen. The sweet and savory glaze combined with tender chicken and crisp broccoli creates a balanced, satisfying dish. It's quick enough for busy evenings yet impressive enough for guests. Serve over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.