Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Introduction

The High Protein Chicken Enchiladas are a wholesome, satisfying, and flavor-packed dish perfect for dinner or meal prep. This recipe takes a healthy twist on a classic Mexican favorite, combining lean chicken breast with protein-packed ingredients for a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Each soft tortilla is filled with tender shredded chicken, flavorful spices, and a touch of cheese, then smothered in a rich, savory enchilada sauce and baked to perfection. The result is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ideal for refueling after a workout or serving as a nutritious family dinner.

What I love most about these enchiladas is how customizable they are. You can easily add beans, veggies, or your favorite toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. Whether you’re prepping for the week or making a comforting dinner, these High Protein Chicken Enchiladas are sure to become a regular on your table!

Perfect for:

Quick weeknight dinners
Meal prep for easy lunches
Those who love sweet and savory flavors
A flavorful, low-effort meal
A healthier take on takeout-style chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is sure to impress:

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of honey and the savory sesame sauce complement the chicken and broccoli beautifully.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan or skillet!
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from broccoli, making it a wholesome meal.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.
Versatile: You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more or less chili flakes.
Perfectly Crispy Chicken: The chicken is lightly coated, giving it a crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the soft broccoli.
Packed with Protein: The chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, perfect for muscle repair and growth.
Quick Weeknight Meal: Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, this dish comes together effortlessly.
Customizable: You can swap the chicken for tofu or another protein, or add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to mix things up.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein, fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Broccoli:

4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (for sautéing)

For Garnish:

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted, optional)
2-3 green onions, sliced
Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (optional, for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken: Lean protein that provides a satisfying base for the dish.
Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the savory and slightly tangy elements of the sauce.
Sesame Oil: Imparts a distinctive, nutty flavor that’s key to the authentic taste of this dish.
Broccoli: Provides texture and nutritional benefits, including fiber and vitamins.
Soy Sauce: The base of the savory sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli:

Cook the Chicken:

Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), grated ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir until well combined.

Cook the Broccoli:

Sauté the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. You can also steam the broccoli if you prefer a softer texture.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:

Add Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the honey sesame sauce over the chicken and broccoli and stir to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and everything to heat through.

Serve:

Garnish and Serve: Serve the honey sesame chicken and broccoli over cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve

Here are some great ways to enjoy Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli:

Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve with your favorite rice or quinoa to make it a complete meal.
Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, serve it over cauliflower rice or skip the rice altogether.
With Side Dishes: Pair with additional vegetables or a simple side salad for extra nutrition and flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make your Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli turn out perfectly:

For Extra Crispiness: You can coat the chicken pieces in a light layer of cornstarch before searing them for extra crispiness.
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for added variety.
Adjust Sweetness: If you like your sauce sweeter, add more honey. For a saltier flavor, add more soy sauce.
Control the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.

Recipe Variations

Here are some variations of the Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli:

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Beef Variation: Swap the chicken for beef strips for a delicious alternative.
Add Nuts: Top the dish with toasted cashews or sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Option: For an extra kick, add fresh chili peppers or a tablespoon of sriracha to the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Store the chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. You may want to add a splash of water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.

Special Equipment

Here are a few tools that will make preparing Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli easier:

Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and vegetables all in one pan.
Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the sauce ingredients.
Tongs or Spatula: Useful for stirring and handling the chicken while cooking.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat and combine when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve this with?
Serve it with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. You can also pair it with a simple salad or some stir-fried vegetables.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, simply simmer it for a few extra minutes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) to the sauce.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can use shrimp, beef, or tofu as an alternative to chicken.

Conclusion

Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is a flavorful, quick, and easy meal that combines sweet, savory, and nutty elements in every bite. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a delicious honey sesame sauce create a mouthwatering combination that’s both satisfying and healthy. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or whenever you crave a satisfying dinner.

Easy to customize, you can add extra veggies, switch up the protein, or drizzle on additional sauce for a unique twist. This dish is ideal for serving over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is sure to become a go-to recipe that delivers big on flavor without the fuss.

I can’t wait to hear how your Honey Sesame Chicken and Broccoli turns out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your delicious creation! Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or let me know how you personalized the recipe. Enjoy!