Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

A few years back I shared a simple recipe for Sesame Chicken and it has been an absolute blog and meal plan favorite ever since. More than just a blog favorite, it's a household favorite and something I personally prepare at least 1-2 times a month. Usually when I am making it at home, I add whatever veggies I have on hand - broccoli, green beans, asparagus, snap peas, snow peas, cabbage, red peppers, or a mix. Since lately some questions have been rolling in about the best way to add veggies, I thought it was worth it to share this veggie packed version of sesame chicken. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

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Preparing Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Served Person: 4

white meat free gluten free red meat free dairy free pescatarian

Carbohydrate 11.8443211498397 g
Cholesterol 87.6747885545 mg
Fat 4.39643426618949 g
Fiber 4.41732575982656 g
Protein 40.546369817761 g
Saturated Fat 0.86007345073891 g
Serving Size 1 1 serving (342g)
Sodium 278.67799872266 mg
Sugar 7.42699539001318 g
Trans Fat 1.02750090266199 g
Calories 247 calories

not set

Step-by-step

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
In a small bowl, whisk the chicken broth, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and white vinegar together. Set aside.
In another bowl, toss the chicken with salt, pepper, and flour.
In a large pan (make sure it’s oven safe) heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken in one layer. Cook for three minutes on one side until nicely browned and then flip and cook for another three minutes on the other side.
Turn off the heat and pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, stirring to combine. Place the entire pan in the oven and cook for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare the veggies until just tender crisp. The easiest way to do this is by quickly placing in boiling water for 2-4 minutes until bright in color and just tender. You can also microwave for 4-5 minutes until just tender. Make sure to not overcook your vegetables.
During the last two minutes of cooking, stir in the vegetables.
Top with sesame seeds.
If you have any trouble with the sauce thickening, you can add a touch more flour or add cornstarch to thicken it up. You can also broil it during the last minutes of cooking to brown the chicken more if needed.

My Favorite Weeknight Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Balancing work, family, and everything in between leaves me craving simple recipes that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. That's why this Sesame Chicken with Broccoli has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s quick, it's easy, and the whole family loves it.

This isn't just any sesame chicken; it's a versatile dish that allows for customization. The original recipe, which I've been making for years, is incredibly simple, but I've found that adding fresh vegetables takes it to another level. Broccoli is a perfect addition, offering a vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and rich sauce. But feel free to experiment! Green beans, asparagus, or even a colorful mix of bell peppers all work wonderfully. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability – it’s a perfect canvas for whatever vegetables you have on hand.

One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is its speed. Weeknights are notoriously busy, and this meal comes together in under 30 minutes. The chicken cooks quickly in a skillet, and the vegetables can be steamed or microwaved while the chicken finishes in the oven. The minimal cleanup is an added bonus. The flavor profile is perfectly balanced – savory, sweet, and a little tangy, thanks to the combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and white vinegar. The sesame oil adds a delightful nutty aroma that permeates the entire dish. And a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a lovely final touch of texture and visual appeal.

But it’s not just about speed and convenience. This recipe is also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the broccoli offers essential vitamins and minerals. It's a complete meal in itself, providing a healthy balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. I often serve this with a side of brown rice or quinoa to make it even more filling.

This recipe has become a family favorite, and for good reason. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that satisfies everyone’s palate without requiring extensive culinary skills or hours spent in the kitchen. It's the kind of dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

I often adapt this recipe depending on my mood and what I have in the fridge. Sometimes, I add a touch of ginger for an extra layer of flavor. Other times, I use different types of nuts instead of sesame seeds to change things up. The possibilities are endless! It's a truly versatile recipe that always delivers a delicious and satisfying meal.

So, if you're looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner, I highly recommend giving this Sesame Chicken with Broccoli a try. You won't regret it! And remember, feel free to customize it to your liking. Add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings to your taste, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious and healthy meal for yourself and your family.

Let me know in the comments how you like it, and share your own variations! I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Happy cooking!

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Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Ingredients

Nutrition facts

Step-by-step

My Favorite Weeknight Sesame Chicken with Broccoli