Dive into the irresistible blend of sweet, spicy, and savory with Spicy Honey Chicken with Broccoli, a dish that promises to awaken your taste buds. This recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a sticky, spicy honey sauce, paired perfectly with the crisp freshness of broccoli. Ideal for those who love a hint of heat with their sweet, this dish is a harmonious symphony of flavors that's both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress.
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 portion
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 420mg
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover and steam until the broccoli is just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the broccoli and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and red chili flakes to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For extra crunch, briefly stir-fry the broccoli with garlic before steaming.
- Adjust the level of heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili flakes according to your preference.
- Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture but may require additional cooking time.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Spicy Honey Chicken with Broccoli is more than just a meal; it's a vibrant celebration of flavors that brings joy to the table. Whether you're looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress guests with your culinary skills, this dish is a testament to the delightful possibilities of combining simple ingredients with bold seasonings. Here's to delicious adventures that warm the soul and tantalize the palate.