Name: Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1⁄4 cup honey; 1⁄4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water; Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional); Cooked white or brown rice for serving (optional)

Introduction to Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

As a busy mom, I know how important it is to have delicious meals that don’t consume your entire evening. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli. This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli tossed in a sweet, sticky sauce that’s a total crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something homemade yet quick. Plus, this recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it also impresses your loved ones, making dinner feel special without the stress. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

This Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli dish is not just easy; it’s a lifesaver! With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home. The flavors are perfectly balanced—sweet, savory, and a little garlicky—making it an instant favorite for everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a one-skillet wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Who doesn’t love that?

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

Alright, let’s gather our ingredients for this scrumptious Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli dish! Here’s what you’ll need to create the magic:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This lean protein fills the dish with flavor and keeps it healthy.
Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, broccoli adds color and crunch. It’s also packed with nutrients.
Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen, olive oil helps sauté the chicken and broccoli to golden perfection instead of using heavy butter.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the flavors. You can never go wrong here!
Honey: The star of the show! It lends a delightful sweetness that balances out the savory components beautifully.
Low-sodium soy sauce: This gives us that tasty umami flavor, without all the salt. A little goes a long way!
Apple cider vinegar: A splash adds acidity and brightness to the dish, cutting through the sweetness.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Cornstarch: Mixed with cold water, this thickens our sauce into a gooey, dream-worthy concoction.
Toasted sesame seeds: Optional but delightful! They add an extra crunch and nutty flavor, perfect for garnish.
Cooked rice: While optional, serving this dish over rice makes it hearty and satisfying—plus it soaks up that delicious sauce!

You can find exact measurements for these ingredients listed at the bottom of the article, and ready for easy printing. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli to life with simple steps. This is where the magic happens, so let’s get right into it!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This size is perfect for even cooking and ensuring maximum deliciousness! Once cut, season the chicken pieces with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This tiny step enhances the flavors significantly, elevating your dish from good to extraordinary.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add your seasoned chicken cubes. Let them cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and no longer pink in the center. Trust your nose! The aroma will guide you. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while we focus on the broccoli.

Step 3: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, drizzle in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the vibrant broccoli florets. Sauté those beauties for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn bright green and tender-crisp. You want them to keep their vibrant color and crunch for that perfect contrast in your dish!

Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

As your broccoli cooks, let’s whip up the honey garlic sauce! In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and the minced garlic. This concoction will be your sweet and savory treasure! Make sure to blend them well for an even flavor throughout.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Broccoli with Sauce

Once the broccoli is perfectly sautéed, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Now, pour the fabulous honey garlic sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is coated. Bring this delightful mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Here’s a little tip: stirring occasionally will help that sauce infuse all those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. In just 1 or 2 minutes, you’ll see it transform into a velvety happiness! Toss the chicken and broccoli again to make sure every piece is well coated. Now, plate it up over your favorite rice, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if using, and get ready for compliments at the table. The Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli dish is now ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; this ensures it browns properly.
For perfectly crisp broccoli, avoid overcooking. Aim for that tender-crisp texture!
Mix the cornstarch with cold water thoroughly to prevent clumps in your sauce.
Taste as you go! Adjust the sweetness or seasoning according to your preferences.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, making for a tasty lunch!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and broccoli; a non-stick pan works wonders.
Mixing bowl: Use any bowl to whisk together your honey garlic sauce; even a measuring cup will do.
Cutting board and knife: Necessary for dicing the chicken and prepping your veggies.
Whisk: Perfect for blending your sauce; a fork could also work in a pinch.

Variations

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce for a delightful kick. This will bring a new layer of flavor to your Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu, cut into cubes. Tofu absorbs the sauce beautifully and provides a hearty alternative.
Gluten-Free Version: Ensure you’re using gluten-free soy sauce, or try tamari as a gluten-free substitute.
Add More Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color. It creates a veggie-packed feast!
Sweet and Sour Twist: Instead of soy sauce, use sweet and sour sauce for a fun variation on the classic flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal.
Add a side of crispy spring rolls for an exciting crunch.
Pair with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing drink.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

As we dive deeper into the scrumptious world of Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli, you might have a few questions about this delightful dish. I’ve gathered some common queries to help you along your cooking journey!

Can I make Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook everything ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it.

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, firm tofu works beautifully. It absorbs the flavor of the honey garlic sauce perfectly!

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

You can use frozen broccoli, but make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before sautéing. Fresh broccoli will give a better texture, though!

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, the Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli can easily be made gluten-free!

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is not spicy by default. However, you can amp up the heat by adding red pepper flakes to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

Cooking up a dish like Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli brings me so much joy! It’s not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memorable moments around the dinner table. The sweet and savory sauce, paired with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, is like a warm hug on a plate. I hope this recipe helps you navigate busy weeknights with grace, allowing you to whip up something special with ease. Remember, meals made with love are the best kind. So, roll up your sleeves, savor the cooking process, and enjoy every delightful bite together!