Sticky Chicken and Broccoli: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Sticky chicken and broccoli: just the name conjures up images of glistening, savory goodness, doesn’t it? Forget takeout tonight because I’m about to share a recipe that’s not only faster and healthier but, dare I say, even more delicious than your favorite restaurant version. This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen!

While the exact origins of this particular combination are a bit murky, the concept of pairing sweet and savory sauces with chicken and vegetables has deep roots in Asian cuisine. Think of the classic Chinese-American dishes that have become staples in households across the globe. This recipe builds upon that foundation, offering a modern twist with a focus on fresh ingredients and balanced flavors.

So, why is sticky chicken and broccoli such a crowd-pleaser? It’s simple: the irresistible combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a luscious, slightly sweet, and undeniably sticky sauce is a symphony of textures and tastes. The broccoli provides a satisfying crunch, while the chicken melts in your mouth. But the real star is that sticky sauce! It clings to every morsel, delivering a burst of umami that will have you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience a new family favorite!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• For the Broccoli:
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Sticky Sauce:
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• For Garnish (Optional):
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This coating will help the chicken get nice and crispy when we cook it.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this is key to getting a good sear.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure! Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Broccoli:

1. In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Heat over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender-crisp and slightly browned. You want it to still have a bit of a bite to it. If the broccoli starts to burn, add a tablespoon or two of water to the skillet and cover it for a minute or two to steam it.
4. Once the broccoli is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sticky Sauce:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is where all the magic happens!
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This slurry will help thicken the sauce.
3. Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet you used for the chicken and broccoli. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Continue to simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be nice and glossy.

Combining Everything:

1. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli back into the skillet with the sticky sauce.
2. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken and broccoli are evenly coated in the sauce.
3. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to further cling to the chicken and broccoli.
4. Remove from heat.

Serving:

1. Serve the sticky chicken and broccoli immediately over rice or noodles.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. These add a nice visual appeal and a little extra flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure to do it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
• Adjust the sweetness: The amount of honey and brown sugar can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will give the sauce the best flavor.
• Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before adding the chicken and broccoli.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to substitute other vegetables for the broccoli, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
• Crispy Chicken Variation: For extra crispy chicken, after coating the chicken in cornstarch, dip it in a beaten egg before frying. This will create a thicker, crispier coating.
• Broccoli Cooking Preference: If you prefer softer broccoli, steam it for a few minutes before adding it to the skillet. This will help it cook more quickly and evenly.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Sticky Chicken and Broccoli!

Conclusion:

This Sticky Chicken and Broccoli recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce, clinging lovingly to tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, makes it an absolute must-try. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to make, look no further. I promise, even the pickiest eaters will be reaching for seconds. But why is this recipe so special? It’s the simplicity, really. We’re talking minimal ingredients, straightforward instructions, and maximum flavor payoff. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this masterpiece. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies – the broccoli soaks up all that delicious sauce, making it irresistible. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over fluffy white rice for a classic comfort meal, or try it with quinoa for a healthier twist. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works beautifully. You could even toss it with noodles for a quick and easy stir-fry. Looking for variations? I’ve got you covered! If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a richer flavor, try using dark soy sauce instead of light. And if you’re feeling adventurous, add some toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful and flavorful garnish. You can also substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess water before cooking. This Sticky Chicken and Broccoli is truly a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and endlessly adaptable. It’s the kind of recipe that will become a staple in your household, a go-to for busy weeknights and impromptu gatherings alike. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible dish. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your thoughts, photos, and tips in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think of my Sticky Chicken and Broccoli! I can’t wait to hear from you! Happy cooking!

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