There’s something incredibly satisfying about a homemade meal that combines ease and flavor, and this Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli does just that! Picture this: the sweet aroma of honey mingling with the rich, savory notes of soy sauce fills your kitchen, inviting your family to the table. After a long day, I often find solace in preparing this delightful dish, which not only pleases the palate but also fits snugly into a budget-friendly dinner plan.
With tender chicken thighs caramelizing to perfection and a side of vibrant sesame broccoli, every bite is a celebration of texture and taste. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, effortlessly transforming ordinary evenings into something special. Whether you serve it with rice or enjoy it as is, this meal is sure to bring smiles and seconds! Let’s dive in and whip up a meal that won’t just satisfy hunger but will also tantalize taste buds.
Why will you love Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli?
Simplicity: This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and savory soy sauce combo creates a palate-pleasing experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Family-Friendly: It’s a meal that pleases both kids and adults alike, fostering togetherness around the dinner table.
Nutritious Twist: With high-protein chicken and fresh broccoli, you get a wholesome dinner that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out veggies or protein to adapt the recipe to your liking, ensuring endless possibilities.
Budget-Savvy: Affordable ingredients mean you can create a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.
Honey & Soy Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Soy Sauce – Provides a savory umami flavor and acts as a marinade base; low-sodium soy sauce can be used for a healthier option.
- Honey – Adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Oil – Used for cooking to achieve crispy skin; any neutral oil like vegetable or canola will work.
- Garlic & Ginger Paste – Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic and ginger can be used as a substitute.
- Skin-on Chicken Thighs – The fat from the skin keeps the chicken moist and adds flavor; boneless, skinless thighs can be used for a lighter option.
For the Broccoli
- Broccoli – Adds freshness and nutrition, balancing the rich flavors of the dish; other vegetables like green beans or bok choy may be substituted.
- Sesame Seeds – For garnish, adding a nutty flavor and crunch; can be omitted if not available.
Optional Serving
- Rice – Serves as a base for the dish; substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
This Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli is not only simple to make but also promises flavor that delights every palate!
How to Make Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan oven)/Gas Mark 6. This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and develops that crispy skin.
- Mix Marinade: In a mixing bowl, stir together the soy sauce, honey, 1 tablespoon of oil, and ½ tablespoon of garlic & ginger paste. Pour this flavorful marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes if you have the time!
- Roast Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side up, in a roasting tin. Roast them in the oven for 45 minutes, or until they are beautifully sticky and crispy.
- Prepare Rice: If you’re serving rice, now is the time to start cooking it according to the package instructions, as the chicken nears completion.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the chicken roasts, heat the remaining oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the leftover garlic & ginger paste and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli along with a splash of water, cover, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender yet vibrant.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the lid from the broccoli, sprinkle on the sesame seeds, and gently toss to combine. Season to taste, then serve your chicken thighs alongside the broccoli and any pan juices. Enjoy this flavorful meal with smiles all around!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra honey for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli?
Creating a delightful meal starts with pairing the right sides to enhance your main dish.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle aroma of jasmine rice perfectly absorb the sticky honey-glaze, making each bite more satisfying.
- Quinoa Salad: Light, nutty quinoa adds a refreshing element and packs in additional protein, complementing the savory chicken beautifully.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a vibrant crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken and enhances the dish’s freshness.
- Garlic Bread Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls brushed with garlic butter invite you to mop up every drop of that delectable honey-soy sauce, making for a cozy meal experience.
- Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances the rich flavors of the honey & soy chicken.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic treat combines sweet mango with sticky rice, echoing the flavors of the main dish while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Expert Tips for Honey & Soy Chicken
- Marinate Longer: Allowing chicken to marinate for a couple of hours intensifies the flavor, making your honey & soy chicken even more delicious.
- Crispy Finish: For that perfect crispy skin, consider broiling the chicken for the last few minutes of roasting.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the chicken thighs are spaced out in the roasting tin to promote even cooking and browning.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap broccoli for other veggies like snap peas or bell peppers, maintaining the dish’s nutritious appeal.
- Serve Hot: This dish is most enjoyable when served immediately; the glaze is stickiest at that moment, enhancing the flavor and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Honey & Soy Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your honey & soy chicken fresh and flavorful for quick meals.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and sesame broccoli for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or microwave until heated through.
Serving Freshness: For the best flavor and texture, enjoy the chicken and broccoli fresh. If freezing, consider storing them separately to maintain their quality upon reheating.
Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe truly your own—your kitchen is your canvas!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it soy-free and dairy-free while adding a hint of sweetness.
- Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce variant to enjoy this dish without gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for a warm flavor boost that spices things up!
- Citrus Zing: Toss in a teaspoon of orange or lime zest into the marinade for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor, brightening the dish.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh, soaking in the same delicious marinade before baking for a hearty meal.
- Veggie Medley: Swap broccoli for a colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, or asparagus—each brings its unique flavor and texture to the plate.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the marinade for a nutty depth, complementing the sweetness of honey for an exotic flair.
- Sweet and Sour: Add pineapple chunks during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a delightful sweet and tangy contrast alongside your chicken.
Let your imagination run wild while you prepare this Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli! Each variation can lead to a brand-new family favorite that will keep the dinner table lively.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the honey and soy mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. Simply place the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the broccoli and store it in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, roast the chicken as instructed and quickly sauté the broccoli right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. By prepping these components ahead of time, you save valuable minutes while still enjoying a homemade, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day!
Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of soy sauce should I use?
I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Regular soy sauce is also great if you prefer a stronger umami taste.
How long can I store leftover honey & soy chicken?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat thoroughly before enjoying, and be prepared for those amazing aromas to fill your kitchen again!
Can I freeze honey & soy chicken and sesame broccoli?
Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap the chicken and broccoli in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your chicken doesn’t achieve that lovely crispiness, try placing it under the broiler for a few minutes at the end of cooking. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning! Also, ensure you’ve spaced your chicken thighs properly on the roasting tin to allow for even cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this dish is quite versatile! If you’re cooking for someone with a soy allergy, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos. For gluten-sensitive diets, look for gluten-free soy sauces or tamari. Additionally, if you’re preparing for kids or picky eaters, consider adjusting the honey and soy sauce levels to suit their taste preferences.
What vegetables can I substitute for broccoli?
If you’re not a fan of broccoli, there are many great alternatives! Green beans, snap peas, or bok choy work wonderfully in this recipe. You can also mix and match different veggies for a colorful platter. Just remember to adjust cooking time slightly to match the vegetables’ tenderness.
Enjoy cooking your Honey & Soy Chicken with Sesame Broccoli!
Sweet Honey & Soy Chicken with Crunchy Sesame Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan oven)/Gas Mark 6.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the soy sauce, honey, 1 tablespoon of oil, and garlic & ginger paste. Pour this over the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs in a roasting tin, skin-side up, and roast in the oven for 45 minutes.
- If serving rice, start cooking it according to package instructions.
- Heat the remaining oil in a frying pan, add the leftover garlic & ginger paste, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli with a splash of water, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Remove the lid from the broccoli, sprinkle on the sesame seeds, and toss to combine.