Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

Why You’ll Love Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli

This recipe delivers all the bold flavors of classic sesame chicken while keeping things lighter and faster to prepare. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a wholesome homemade alternative to takeout.

First, it’s incredibly quick. With a total cooking time of about 15 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings when you need dinner on the table fast.

Second, it uses simple pantry ingredients. The sauce is made with soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and ginger, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

Another reason to love this dish is its healthier profile. Lean chicken breast and broccoli provide protein and nutrients, while the homemade sauce keeps the ingredients fresh and controlled.

Finally, it’s versatile and easy to customize. You can adjust the spice level, add extra vegetables, or serve it with rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
1 ½ teaspoons cold water
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 to 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce, or to taste
2 teaspoons ground ginger
5 cups broccoli florets
salt and pepper, optional and to taste
sesame seeds, for garnishing

Directions

1. Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nearly cooked through.

2. While the chicken cooks, combine the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Stir until the cornstarch dissolves and set the slurry aside.

3. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and ground ginger. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Let it bubble for about 1 minute.

4. Add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan and whisk continuously. Allow the sauce to cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens.

5. Push the chicken to one side of the skillet and add the broccoli to the empty side. Pour the thickened sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli, then gently stir everything together until well coated.

6. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes crisp-tender.

7. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

You can easily adapt this dish to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

For a lower-carb option, replace the brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener and serve the chicken and broccoli over cauliflower rice.

If you enjoy extra vegetables, add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. These vegetables blend well with the sesame sauce and add color and nutrition.

For a spicier dish, increase the chili garlic sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

You can also substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer a richer flavor and juicier texture.

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking method.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover sesame chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat on the stovetop, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

For microwave reheating, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw it slightly and reduce the cooking time so it doesn’t become too soft.

What can I serve with sesame chicken and broccoli?

This dish pairs well with steamed white rice, brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before adding it to the skillet.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces and avoid overcooking it. Cooking quickly over medium-high heat helps keep it juicy.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild heat from the chili garlic sauce, but you can easily adjust the spice level by using more or less.

Can I substitute soy sauce?

Yes, you can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative.

What does hoisin sauce add to the recipe?

Hoisin sauce contributes sweetness, depth, and a slightly tangy flavor that enhances the overall sesame sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Add a small additional cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prep. Divide it into containers with rice or vegetables for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Conclusion

Skinny 15-Minute Sesame Chicken and Broccoli is the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich sesame sauce, this dish delivers a satisfying homemade alternative to takeout. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing meals ahead for the week, this simple and delicious recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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