Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Are you looking for a quick and healthy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Look no further than this Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli. This dish is not only a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights, but it also packs a nutritious punch with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli tossed in a savory sesame sauce. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress without taking up your precious time.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
This Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli recipe is a keeper for several reasons. First, it takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings. Second, the combination of sweet and savory flavors will have your taste buds dancing. Lastly, it’s a nutritious option that incorporates lean protein and fresh vegetables, making it a guilt-free choice for any meal.
What to Buy
Before you start cooking, here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the chicken and adding healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – for that rich, nutty flavor.
- 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast – diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch – to thicken the sauce slightly.
- 1 teaspoon cold water – to mix with cornstarch.
- ½ cup light brown sugar – adds a touch of sweetness.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – for a savory depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons honey – enhances sweetness and richness.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – for a complex, sweet-savory taste.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce – adjust to taste for heat.
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger – for aromatic spice.
- 5 cups broccoli florets – fresh and vibrant, the star of the dish.
- Salt and pepper – optional, to taste.
- Sesame seeds – for garnishing and added crunch.
Hardware & Gadgets
To make this dish, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools:
- Large Skillet or Wok – ideal for stir-frying the chicken and broccoli quickly.
- Mixing Bowl – for combining the sauce ingredients and cornstarch slurry.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon – for stirring and flipping the chicken.
- Knife and Cutting Board – to chop the chicken and prepare the broccoli.
Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by dicing the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and ground ginger. This savory mixture will be the backbone of your Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli.
Step 3: Create the Cornstarch Slurry
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. This slurry will help thicken the sauce once added to the pan.
Step 4: Heat the Oils
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat. The combination of oils adds depth to the dish.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the heated skillet. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Step 6: Add the Broccoli
Once the chicken is cooked, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 7: Mix in the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Then, add the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and serve the Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli hot, garnished with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
Elevate your Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli by adding seasonal touches:
- Spring: Toss in some snap peas or asparagus for a fresh crunch.
- Summer: Incorporate bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Fall: Add roasted pumpkin cubes for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Use kale or bok choy for a heartier green option.
Troubles You Can Avoid
When preparing this dish, consider these tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.
- Adjust the level of chili garlic sauce based on your heat preference to avoid an overly spicy dish.
- Always check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
For optimal freshness, consider these storage tips:
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce is too thick.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add even more flavor to your Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for hoisin sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can mix equal parts soy sauce and peanut butter with a bit of honey for sweetness. This will mimic the sweet and savory flavor of hoisin.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of the meat. The sauce will still provide a delicious flavor profile.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Definitely! You can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce to make the Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli gluten-free.
More from the Kitchen
For more delicious recipes, check out these favorites:
- Healthy Garlic Shrimp Tacos
- Quick Vegetable Stir-Fry
- Easy Weeknight Beef and Broccoli
- Spicy Asian Noodle Salad
Before You Go
Now that you have the recipe for Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is not only quick and easy but also a delightful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, it’s a fantastic choice for any night of the week. Happy cooking!
Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by dicing the boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and ground ginger.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken to the heated skillet and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and broccoli, stir well, then add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough for a nice sear.
- Adjust chili garlic sauce to your heat preference.
