Sticky Chicken and Broccoli
A delightful homemade dish featuring tender chicken and crunchy broccoli, enveloped in a sticky, sweet sauce perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey Provides natural sweetness that enhances the glaze.
- 1/4 cup ketchup Adds depth and acidity, enhancing overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce Infuses dish with savory umami without being overly salty.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Offers a tangy kick that balances sweetness of honey.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar Enhances caramelization in sauce.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Balances flavors and aids in sauce thickness.
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce Introduces spicy kick complementing sweet elements.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Used for thickening the sauce at the final step.
- 2 tablespoons cold water Necessary for creating a smooth cornstarch slurry.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast The star ingredient offering healthy protein.
- 1 large egg Binds the coating, adding richness.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Provides crispy coating sealing moisture.
- 1/4 cup corn starch Adds delightful crunch to chicken’s exterior.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing to achieve a golden crust.
For the Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets Adds vibrant color and essential nutrients.
- 2 tablespoons green onions Optional garnish for color and mild onion flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Optional sprinkle for texture and visual appeal.
Seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper Essential seasoning for final flavor adjustments.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and chili garlic sauce; set aside.
- In separate bowls, beat the egg in one and place flour and corn starch in two additional bowls.
- Dip each piece of chicken in the egg, then coat it in flour, and finally cover it with corn starch.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the coated chicken to the skillet and cook, turning frequently, until seared and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
- Push the cooked chicken to one side of the skillet, add the broccoli, and drizzle the sticky sauce over both; stir to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Serving
- If desired, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot, preferably with rice.
Notes
For optimal crispiness, cut chicken into even, bite-sized pieces and don't overcrowd the pan. Consider marinating chicken in sauce for added flavor and adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.