Honey Garlic Chicken And Broccoli

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken And Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sesame seeds for garnish (optional); Green onions, sliced (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Staples

I absolutely love making Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli for dinner! It's an easy dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes but feels so special. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and the sweet-savory honey garlic sauce creates a burst of flavors that’s irresistible. I often serve this with rice to soak up the delicious sauce, making it a family favorite at our table. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat for busy weeknights or any occasion!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:45:36.620Z

When I first tried Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious it was. I experimented with several variations of the sauce, and I discovered that a blend of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a wonderful balance of sweetness and depth. This dish is perfect because it's not only quick to make but also packs a nutritional punch with the broccoli adding essential vitamins.

I found that the secret to achieving the best flavor lies in marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This allows the honey garlic sauce to penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that can easily impress guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy to make, great for busy evenings
Packed with nutrition thanks to vibrant broccoli

Mastering the Honey Garlic Sauce

The honey garlic sauce is the star of this dish, providing a sweet and savory balance that elevates the chicken and broccoli. When mixing the sauce, be sure to whisk it thoroughly until the honey is completely dissolved in the soy sauce. This step ensures an even coating on the chicken. I recommend adjusting the sweetness by adding more honey if you prefer it sweeter or a splash of lime juice if you crave a tangy punch.

For the garlic, using fresh cloves is essential for achieving that bold flavor. Mince the garlic finely to release its oils and enhance the aroma. If you're in a pinch, you could substitute with pre-minced garlic, but be cautious with the quantity, as it can be more potent. Also, remember that garlic can burn easily in the skillet, so keep an eye on it during cooking for that perfectly caramelized flavor.

Choosing the Right Chicken and Broccoli

Using chicken breast is a popular choice for this recipe due to its lean nature and quick cooking time, but boneless skinless thighs also work well for their richer flavor. If you decide to use thighs, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For perfect texture, slice the chicken into uniform strips to promote even cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming dry while others remain undercooked.

When selecting broccoli, look for firm florets with vibrant green color and tight buds. This indicates freshness and ensures your broccoli will be packed with nutrients. If you want to save time, you can use pre-cut broccoli florets. However, cutting fresh broccoli yourself can enhance the freshness of the dish, and it’s an easy task that will pay off in the flavor department.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This dish is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, which not only complements the flavors but also helps absorb any extra sauce. You might also consider pairing the honey garlic chicken with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. Additionally, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an appealing heat dimension if you enjoy some spice in your meal.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. If freezing, I recommend storing the chicken and broccoli separately from the sauce to maintain the best texture. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat, adding fresh garlic and some soy sauce to revive the flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delightful Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Green onions, sliced (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir-fry for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is vibrant and tender but still crunchy.

Serve

Plate the chicken and broccoli, drizzle with any remaining sauce from the skillet, and top with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Enjoy your meal paired with rice or noodles for a complete dish!

Pro Tips

If you want to add extra flavors, add a splash of sesame oil or some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Cooking

To achieve the right tenderness for the chicken, it's crucial to avoid overcrowding the skillet. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches, ensuring that the pieces have room to brown slightly on all sides. This method not only enhances the flavor but also prevents steaming, which can cause the chicken to turn rubbery rather than golden and juicy.

When cooking the broccoli, keep in mind that timing is key. Adding the florets after the chicken is partially cooked allows them to absorb the savory flavors without overcooking. Stir-fry for just 5 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender yet still crisp. This contrast in texture helps create a delightful bite alongside the tender chicken.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish beyond broccoli. Bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots can add color and flavor, making it even more nutritious. Just ensure that they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. For a loyalty to seasonal ingredients, swap in asparagus in the spring or brussels sprouts in the fall—both will complement the honey garlic sauce beautifully.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider using cauliflower instead of broccoli for a low-carb option. Just like the broccoli, cauliflower should be cooked until tender-crisp to maintain some bite. For a different take on the sauce, try adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for a depth of flavor that pairs well with the honey, creating an enticing sweet-and-sour balance in every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly, as frozen broccoli tends to be softer.

→ Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.