Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

The moment I think of a quick, satisfying meal, Sesame Chicken with Broccoli always pops into my mind. It’s one of those dishes that transports me back to cozy family dinners, where the aroma of chicken sizzling in a pan fills the air. I remember the first time I tried a similar recipe: a delightful twist on a classic that was not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. As someone who enjoys gluten-free cooking, I was thrilled to discover the use of tamari and wholesome ingredients that don’t compromise on flavor. Now, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy nights when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Over the years, I’ve perfected the balance of flavors in this dish, combining crispy chicken with vibrant broccoli, and I can’t wait to share it with you. The sweetness from honey, the nuttiness of sesame oil, and the crunch of sesame seeds all come together beautifully. Whether I’m serving it on a casual weeknight or impressing friends at a dinner party, Sesame Chicken with Broccoli never fails to delight. I love that it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Ingredients Required for Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

When it comes to creating a delightful dish like Sesame Chicken with Broccoli, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role. Each element not only contributes to the delicious flavor but also harmonizes with the others to create a wholesome meal. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the fresh broccoli, which adds a vibrant crunch. Together, these ingredients produce a satisfying balance of taste and nutrition.

• Broccoli: 3 cups small broccoli florets and thinly sliced stems (about 3/4 pound) – A powerhouse of vitamins, broccoli adds a delightful crunch and bright color to this dish.
• Egg White: 1 large egg white – This ingredient helps to create a light coating for the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.
• Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons cornstarch, arrowroot starch or tapioca starch – A vital ingredient for achieving that crispy texture on the chicken.
• Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the flavors of the dish, bringing out the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
• Chicken Breasts: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed – The primary protein source in this dish, ensuring it’s filling and nutritious.
• Coconut Oil: 2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided – Adds a subtle sweetness and richness to the dish, perfect for frying.
• Red Pepper: 1 red pepper, seeded and diced – Brings a pop of color and sweetness to the mix.
• Scallions: 2 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced – Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness.
• Garlic: 1 garlic clove, minced – A must-have for enhancing the aroma and depth of flavor.
• Tamari: 1/4 cup gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos – A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that adds rich umami flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil – Imparts a distinctive nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (black or regular) – A finishing touch that adds texture and a nutty flavor.

How to Make Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Creating Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. Get ready to enjoy a colorful, delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful meal.

1. Start by preparing the broccoli. In a large wok or lidded skillet, cover the broccoli with 2 cups of water. Turn the heat to high and bring it to a simmer.
2. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant and tender. Drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside and dry the skillet.
3. While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the egg white, cornstarch, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat it evenly.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in the cleaned skillet over high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in an even layer. Allow it to cook until golden brown on one side, about 2 minutes.
5. After the first side is browned, stir fry the chicken, cooking until it’s fully cooked through—this should take about 4 more minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of coconut oil. Stir fry the diced red pepper and the white parts of the scallions until lightly charred, which will take about 2 minutes.
7. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
8. Add the chicken back into the skillet along with the tamari, toasted sesame oil, honey, and sesame seeds. Simmer everything together until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2 minutes.
9. Finally, gently stir in the broccoli and the green parts of the scallions. Serve your delicious Sesame Chicken with Broccoli over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Making Adjustments

Flexibility is key when it comes to cooking, and Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is no exception. Here are some tips to help you adapt this recipe to your taste and dietary needs:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: Serve it alongside a fresh salad or a light soup to create a more balanced meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
• Spice it Up: To add a kick, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Tip: Always double-check that your tamari is gluten-free if you are strictly avoiding gluten.

Serving This Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Serving Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is all about showcasing the vibrant colors and flavors of the dish. Here are some fantastic ideas on how to serve it:

• Rice or Grains: Serve over fluffy brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthy base that complements the dish.
• Garnishing: Top with extra sesame seeds and thinly sliced green scallions for added texture and a pop of color.
• Seasonal Sides: Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed green beans to keep things light and fresh.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, but it can also shine at gatherings and family meals.
• Leftover Bliss: The leftovers make for a great lunch option the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.
• Make it a Feast: Serve with a variety of Asian-inspired dishes for a themed dinner party that your guests will love.

FAQ

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients your family will love. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this tasty dish!

Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

The ultimate comfort food, Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a quick, easy weeknight dinner that satisfies cravings. Packed with juicy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a flavorful sauce, it's a dish your family will love. Try it tonight for a delicious and nutritious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups Broccoli small broccoli florets and thinly sliced stems (about 3/4 pound)
• 1 Egg White large
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch arrowroot starch or tapioca starch
• 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt
• 1 pound Chicken Breasts boneless skinless, cubed
• 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil divided
• 1 Red Pepper seeded and diced
• 2 Scallions white and green parts separated, thinly sliced
• 1 Garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup Tamari gluten-free or coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil
• 2 tablespoons Honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (black or regular)

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In a large wok or lidded skillet, cover the broccoli with 2 cups water. Bring to a simmer over high heat, reduce to medium, then cover and cook until vibrant and tender, 1-2 minutes. Drain in a colander. Rinse and dry the skillet.
2. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg white, cornstarch, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add the chicken and toss to combine.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of the coconut oil in the cleaned skillet over high heat. When hot, add the chicken in an even layer. Cook until golden brown on the first side, about 2 minutes, then stir fry until the chicken is cooked through, about 4 minutes more. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
4. Add the remaining vegetable or coconut oil and stir fry the peppers and white scallions until lightly charred, 2 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken back to the pan, along with the tamari, toasted sesame oil, honey, and sesame seeds. Simmer until the sauce has thickened, 2 minutes. Stir in the broccoli and green scallions. Serve over brown rice or quinoa.

Notes

• If the chicken sticks: You can add an additional 1/2 cup of water or chicken stock with the sauce to help deglaze the pan.
• Low FODMAP: To make this gluten-free sesame chicken low FODMAP, you can omit the garlic and white scallions, and use maple syrup.

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Meet Quinn Taylor

Great food doesn't have to be complicated, it just has to be smart. I focus on streamlining our recipes so you get maximum flavor with minimum stress. I cooked, timed, and tasted this dish multiple times to ensure it fits perfectly into your busy life while still delivering that 'wow' factor.