| Prep Time ⇒ | 25 mins |
| Cook Time ⇒ | 20 mins |
| Protein ⇒ | 60g |
| Fat ⇒ | 31g |
| Carbs ⇒ | 31g |
Sesame Chicken with Broccoli : Perfect Asian Noodles
Indulge in a delightful stir-fry featuring tender sesame chicken paired with crisp broccoli florets. This dish offers a harmonious balance of sweet, slightly spicy flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to white or brown rice, or your favorite Asian noodles.
Ingredients :
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, or to taste
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon cooking oil, divided
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sambal oelek, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/2 cup carrots, cut into matchsticks
- 1/2 cup sliced shallots
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions :
Step 1: In a bowl, coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Toss to ensure an even coating and set aside.
Step 2: Heat 1 teaspoon of cooking oil in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking and stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Incorporate soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sambal oelek, and sesame oil into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: In a large nonstick skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until very hot. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the oil. Cook, stirring regularly, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Use a long-handled spoon or utensil to manage splattering.
Step 5: Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of cooking oil to the skillet. Sauté the carrots, shallots, and broccoli, stirring continuously for 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 6: Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and cook until the vegetables reach your desired tenderness, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 7: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce until smooth. Add this cornstarch slurry to the skillet, stirring rapidly until well combined. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until the chicken is heated through, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 8: Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve hot.
Enjoy this flavorful, satisfying stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat.
Health Benefits of Ingredients :
The Nutritional Power of Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that offers a myriad of health benefits. It’s rich in vitamins C, K, and A, contributing to immune support, bone health, and vision. This cruciferous vegetable is also packed with fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to maintain a healthy weight. Moreover, broccoli contains powerful antioxidants and compounds that may lower the risk of certain cancers. To learn more about broccoli’s impressive health benefits, visit Wikipedia.
Sesame Seeds: Tiny Nutritional Giants
Sesame seeds are small but mighty when it comes to nutrition. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, sesame seeds provide important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. They also contain antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. For more on sesame seeds’ health benefits, check out Wikipedia.
Chicken: A Versatile Protein Source
Chicken is a beloved ingredient for good reason. As a lean protein, it plays a vital role in muscle repair and overall bodily functions. Rich in B vitamins, especially B6 and B12, chicken supports energy metabolism and brain health. When prepared healthily, it offers a filling and nutritious addition to any meal. To explore the various health benefits of chicken, visit Wikipedia.
The Flavorful Role of Soy Sauce
Soy sauce not only enhances the flavor of dishes but also adds nutritional value. Made from fermented soybeans, it contains essential amino acids and minerals, including manganese and iron. The fermentation process also provides probiotics, which can benefit gut health. However, it’s essential to consume soy sauce in moderation due to its high sodium content. For detailed information on soy sauce, visit Wikipedia.
Garlic: A Flavor and Health Booster
Garlic is a culinary staple known for its robust flavor and numerous health benefits. It is packed with allicin, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Regular consumption of garlic can support cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, garlic is rich in antioxidants, helping protect the body from oxidative damage. For a comprehensive look at garlic’s benefits, check out Wikipedia.
The Sweet Touch of Honey
In this recipe, honey serves as a natural sweetener, offering a healthier alternative to refined sugars. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Honey can also help soothe sore throats and enhance wound healing. While it’s still important to consume it in moderation, honey can be a flavorful way to add sweetness. For more on honey’s health benefits, visit Wikipedia.
Cornstarch: The Essential Thickener
Cornstarch is often used to thicken sauces and soups, providing a smooth texture to dishes like Sesame Chicken. While it doesn’t offer significant nutritional benefits, it is a gluten-free option for those with gluten sensitivities. Cornstarch is a quick source of carbohydrates, delivering energy efficiently. For more insights into cornstarch, check out Wikipedia.
Ginger: A Spice with Health Benefits
Ginger is celebrated not only for its flavor but also for its medicinal properties. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can aid in digestion and help reduce nausea. Ginger may also play a role in lowering blood sugar levels and improving heart health. To explore ginger’s extensive benefits, visit Wikipedia.
Exploring More Delicious Recipes
If you loved this Sesame Chicken with Broccoli, there are plenty more hearty dishes waiting for you! Discover a variety of flavorful recipes at hearty-recipes.com to keep your meals exciting and nutritious.