Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli

I remember the first time I truly understood the magic of sweet and savory fusion. I was wandering through a vibrant night market in Taipei, Taiwan. The air hummed with energy. Vendors shouted over sizzling woks. Aromas of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce swirled around me. I followed my nose to a small stall where a cook expertly tossed morsels of chicken in a glossy, dark sauce. He added crisp broccoli florets at the last second. The result was a symphony in a bowl. That dish, a beautiful cousin to our Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli, taught me how simple ingredients can create profound joy. It’s a memory I carry with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli recipe delivers an explosion of authentic flavor. The sauce perfectly balances sweet honey with pungent garlic. It creates a sticky, glossy coating that clings to tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. You get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Furthermore, it’s incredibly versatile and comes together in one pan. Ultimately, it’s a weeknight dinner hero that feels like a global escape.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right components is the first step on this culinary journey. I always emphasize using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the most authentic taste. Here’s what you’ll need for this Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli dish. You’ll Need Gathering the right components is the first step on this culinary journey. I always emphasize using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the most authentic taste. Here’s what you’ll need for this Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli dish. If you’re interested in other protein-rich meals, you might enjoy the Buffalo Chicken Salad as a delicious alternative.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs	1.5 lbs	Cut into 1-inch cubes. Thighs offer more flavor.
Broccoli florets	1 large head	Fresh is best for optimal texture.
Low-sodium soy sauce	1/3 cup	The base of our savory sauce.
Honey	1/4 cup	Provides the signature sweetness.
Fresh garlic, minced	4-5 cloves	Do not substitute with powder for the best flavor.
Rice vinegar	2 tablespoons	Adds a subtle tang.
Fresh ginger, grated	1 tablespoon	A non-negotiable for authentic aroma.
Sesame oil	1 teaspoon	Use for finishing; it has a low smoke point.
Cornstarch	1 tablespoon	For coating the chicken and thickening the sauce.
Green onions, sliced	2-3	For garnish and a fresh, sharp finish.
Sesame seeds	1 tablespoon	For garnish and a nutty crunch.

Substitutions & Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own. For a more authentic touch, use dark soy sauce for a deeper color and flavor. Alternatively, add a teaspoon of Gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a spicy kick. You can also substitute broccoli with asparagus or snap peas. For a modern twist, try adding pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy burst. Ultimately, let your pantry and palate guide you.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s transform these simple ingredients into a magnificent meal. Follow these steps for perfect Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli every single time.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Then, toss them in a bowl with the cornstarch until evenly coated. This step is crucial for a crispy exterior and a thick sauce.
2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Set this flavorful mixture aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the chicken and broccoli.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle with the sesame oil and toss to combine. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot.

Pro Tips for Success

To achieve the most authentic flavor, do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary. This ensures a good sear instead of steaming. Always use fresh garlic and ginger; their vibrant, pungent notes are irreplaceable. For an extra glossy sauce, mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and add it at the end. Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You might want an extra drizzle of honey or a splash of soy sauce.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. I do not recommend freezing this dish, as the broccoli can become mushy upon thawing.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli is a complete meal on its own. However, for a truly authentic and satisfying spread, serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully. You could also pair it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a more substantial meal, add a side of vegetable spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad with a rice vinegar dressing.

FAQs

Can I make this Honey Garlic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in a jar in the refrigerator. Then, simply cook the chicken and broccoli fresh when you’re ready to assemble the dish for the best texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

You can, but thaw and pat it dry thoroughly first. Otherwise, it will release too much water and make the sauce watery. Fresh broccoli always provides a superior crunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can also garnish with sliced fresh chili peppers.

What’s the best way to get a thick sauce for my Honey Garlic Chicken?

Coating the chicken in cornstarch before cooking is the key. It creates a light crust that helps thicken the sauce naturally as it simmers. If your sauce is still too thin, create a cornstarch slurry and stir it in at the end.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and assuming 4 servings.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~350 kcal
Protein	~35g
Carbohydrates	~30g
Fat	~8g
Saturated Fat	~1.5g
Fiber	~4g
Sugar	~22g
Sodium	~900mg

Print