Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

There’s something truly comforting about a dish that comes together in just a flash, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with Sesame Chicken with Broccoli. Picture this: after a long day, you want something warm and fulfilling, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this recipe shines. The vibrant green of the broccoli mixed with tender chunks of chicken creates a visually appealing and delicious meal. And the best part? It’s gluten-free! Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive dish for unexpected guests.

What You’ll Need for Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to making Sesame Chicken with Broccoli a success. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crispness of the broccoli to the tenderness of the cubed chicken. The synergy between the ingredients not only enhances the flavors but also presents a healthy, balanced meal. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this dish!

• 3 cups small broccoli florets and thinly sliced stems (about 3/4 pound) – This vibrant vegetable adds a crunchy texture and a wealth of nutrients.
• 1 large egg white – It acts as a binding agent for the chicken, helping to create a lovely texture.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch, arrowroot starch or tapioca starch – This ingredient is key for that crispy exterior on the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt – A necessary seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed – The protein powerhouse of the dish, providing satisfaction.
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided – This oil is perfect for cooking at high heat, giving a slight sweetness.
• 1 red pepper, seeded and diced – This adds color and a sweet crunch.
• 2 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced – A great way to infuse onion flavor throughout the dish.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – A must for that aromatic base flavor.
• 1/4 cup gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos – The salty component that brings everything together.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil – For that distinct nutty flavor.
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – This adds a natural sweetness that balances the dish.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (black or regular) – A delightful garnish that adds flavor and texture.

Recipe Directions for Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to cook up a storm with Sesame Chicken with Broccoli. This step-by-step guide will help you create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Follow these instructions closely to ensure the best results!

1. Start by preparing your broccoli. In a large wok or lidded skillet, cover the broccoli with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a simmer over high heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to medium and cover. Cook until the broccoli is vibrant and tender, about 1 to 2 minutes. Drain the broccoli in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. Set it aside for later.

2. While the broccoli cooks, whisk together the egg white, cornstarch, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Once combined, add the cubed chicken into the bowl and toss to ensure every piece is well coated.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of the coconut oil in the cleaned skillet over high heat. When hot, add the coated 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, which should take about 4 minutes more. Once done, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.

4. 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 they’re lightly charred, roughly 2 minutes. This will bring out their natural sweetness.

5. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it, as that can impart a bitter taste.

6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the gluten-free tamari, toasted sesame oil, honey, and sesame seeds. Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce has thickened, which should take about 2 minutes.

7. Finally, stir in the prepared broccoli and the green parts of the scallions. Gently toss everything to combine and heat through. The vivid colors and aromas will be irresistible!

8. Serve your Sesame Chicken with Broccoli over brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. Enjoy the beautiful flavors and the compliments from your family or guests.

Helpful Notes about Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

If you’ve enjoyed making Sesame Chicken with Broccoli, here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience further. These notes will ensure that you get the best results and make your cooking journey even more enjoyable.

• Storage: After cooling, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Adjusting Spice: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños.
• Customization: Feel free to swap the broccoli for other vegetables such as snap peas or bell peppers if you prefer.

What to Serve Alongside Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

When it comes to serving Sesame Chicken with Broccoli, the options are wonderfully versatile. Here’s how to create a delightful meal:

• Steamed Rice: Serving it over fluffy steamed rice is a classic. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce and complements the flavors.
• Quinoa: For a healthy twist, quinoa is a fantastic option. It adds a nutty flavor and a different texture.
• Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing crunch.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Consider serving additional stir-fried vegetables on the side, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas, to increase your veggie intake.
• Occasions: This dish is great for casual weeknight dinners but also shines at gatherings and potlucks.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the components in advance, making weeknight cooking a breeze. Just assemble and heat before serving.

FAQ

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines flavor, nutrition, and quick preparation. The balance of savory and sweet, along with the vibrant vegetables, makes it a standout meal for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe. It’s not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the experience of cooking and sharing this wonderful dish with your loved ones!

Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

The ultimate comfort food, Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that satisfies your cravings. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a flavorful sesame sauce, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Make it tonight for a deliciously healthy meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

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

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups broccoli small florets and thinly sliced stems (about 3/4 pound)
• 1 large egg white
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot starch or tapioca starch
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cubed
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil divided
• 1 strong red pepper seeded and diced
• 2 strong scallions white and green parts separated, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1/4 cup gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (black or regular)

Instructions

 

• 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.
• Meanwhile, whisk together the egg white, cornstarch, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add the chicken and toss to combine.
• 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.
• 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.
• Add the chicken back to the pan, along with the tamari, 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 you find that the chicken sticks to the skillet: You can add an additional 1/2 cup of water or chicken stock with the sauce to help deglaze the pan. Usually, the peppers are enough to release those brown bits.
• To make this gluten-free sesame chicken low FODMAP: You can omit the garlic and white scallions, and use maple syrup.

Keyword Easy Sesame Chicken, Gluten-Free Chicken, Healthy Chicken Recipes, quick chicken dinner

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.