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Honey Garlic Chicken and Steamed Broccoli - A Sweet, Savory Weeknight Favorite

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • Broccoli: 1 large head (or a 12-ounce bag of florets)
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Honey: 1/4 cup
  • Soy sauce: 1/4 cup (low-sodium preferred)
  • Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: 1–2 tablespoons
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon (optional but great)
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thicker sauce)
  • Water or chicken broth: 1/4 cup
  • Neutral oil: 1–2 tablespoons (avocado, canola, or light olive)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
  • Rice or noodles for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat chicken dry and cut into bite-size pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water or broth. If you like a thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch until smooth.
  3. Steam the broccoli: Bring an inch of water to a simmer in a pot. Add broccoli to a steamer basket, cover, and steam for 3–5 minutes until crisp-tender and bright green. Remove and set aside. Alternatively, microwave with a splash of water in a covered bowl for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Sear the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken in a single layer. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to brown, then stir and cook until mostly done, about 5–7 minutes.
  5. Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Stir and let it bubble until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens and turns glossy, 2–4 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Taste and adjust: If it’s too salty, add a splash of water or a touch more honey. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more vinegar or soy sauce.
  7. Serve: Plate the chicken with steamed broccoli. Spoon extra sauce over both. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with rice or noodles if you like.