I’m absolutely thrilled to share one of my go-to recipes with you today: Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli! This dish has a special place in my heart because it’s not just delicious, but it’s also one of those meals that brings back warm memories from weekend dinners with my family. It’s the kind of recipe that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, makes the heart sing, and leaves everyone at the table with a satisfied smile.
What I love most about this recipe is how the sweetness of honey balances out the savory garlic and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken. Plus, the vibrant green broccoli not only adds a splash of color but also brings a lovely crunch to each bite. Trust me, it’s the perfect harmony of flavors that feels fancy but is actually super simple to whip up!
What’s in Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli?
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe because they’re juicy and full of flavor. Plus, they hold up really well to cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts work just fine too!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star veggie here, and it adds that beautiful pop of green. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals. Frozen broccoli can be a great time-saver if you’re short on time.
Honey: This natural sweetener not only gives the dish its name but also adds a fantastic sticky glaze to the chicken. I usually go for local, raw honey as it’s more flavorful and supports local beekeepers!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must. It infuses the dish with its signature pungent flavor and aroma. You can never have too much garlic in my book!
Soy Sauce: I typically use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the saltiness in check. It enhances the overall umami flavor of the dish.
Sesame Oil: Just a touch of this fragrant oil adds a lovely depth to the marinade and complements the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
Is Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about how this dish can fit into a balanced diet.
Chicken Thighs: While they’re a source of protein and rich in flavor, they do have a bit of fat. Opting for lean poultry or trimming excess fat can make it a healthier choice.
Broccoli: This little green powerhouse is rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants! It’s wonderful for supporting immune health and overall wellness.
Honey: While it’s definitely a source of natural sugar, honey also contains antioxidants and has some potential health benefits. Just remember to use it in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Ingredients List
– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup honey
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
*Serves 4*
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli?
1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 30 minutes (or longer if you have the time).
2. While the chicken is marinating, bring a pot of water to boil and blanch the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until vibrant green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
4. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the tray and pour any leftover marinade over the top. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
6. In the last five minutes of cooking, scatter the blanched broccoli around the chicken in the oven to get a bit of oven-roasted flavor.
7. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle any remaining juices from the tray over the chicken and broccoli for added flavor.
8. Serve warm, topped with sesame seeds and green onions for a little extra flair!
Honey, Garlic, and Everything Nice!
Here are some additional tips and variations to consider:
– Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots if you’d like. They all pair wonderfully with the honey garlic sauce!
– If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick!
– Leftovers (if there are any) make fantastic wraps or stir-fry additions the next day.
– Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that amazing sauce!
I hope you give this Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli a try! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience with me; I’d love to hear how it turns out! Happy cooking!