Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a popular dish that combines the flavors of crispy fried chicken, tender broccoli florets, and a savory sesame sauce. This recipe is often enjoyed in Chinese-American restaurants but can also be easily prepared at home. The balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, paired with the freshness of broccoli, makes this a delicious and satisfying meal for weeknights or special occasions. Served over rice, it’s a perfect example of how traditional Chinese ingredients and cooking methods have been adapted to suit Western tastes.
Full Recipe:
Sesame Chicken with Broccoli
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked white or jasmine rice (for serving)
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger to make the sauce. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and stir-fry the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sesame sauce over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to coat evenly.
- Mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then add it to the skillet to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce is glossy and thickened.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
History and Origin:
Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is a dish that embodies the fusion of Chinese cuisine and American tastes, primarily found in Chinese-American restaurants. While sesame oil and soy-based sauces are staples in traditional Chinese cooking, this specific dish was largely developed to suit American palates, which often favor sweeter and thicker sauces. It is part of the broader category of dishes like General Tso’s Chicken and Sweet and Sour Chicken, which emerged in the 20th century as Chinese chefs adapted their recipes for a new audience in America.
Chinese immigrants began arriving in the United States in the 19th century, and by the early 20th century, they had established numerous small restaurants across the country. These restaurants played a significant role in popularizing Chinese cuisine among Americans, but the dishes were often modified to appeal to Western tastes, leading to the creation of new dishes like Sesame Chicken.
Sesame seeds, a common ingredient in both Chinese and Middle Eastern cuisines, were likely incorporated to add a layer of texture and visual appeal, while the broccoli reflects a common substitution for more traditional Chinese vegetables like gai lan (Chinese broccoli). The result is a dish that maintains elements of authentic Chinese cooking techniques but features flavors and ingredients more familiar to American diners.
Sesame Chicken with Broccoli also reflects the broader history of Chinese cuisine’s global journey, particularly its path in the United States. Chinese immigrants began arriving in the U.S. in significant numbers in the mid-1800s, primarily during the California Gold Rush. As these immigrants settled in various parts of the country, they established small restaurants that served affordable meals, often catering to non-Chinese customers. To appeal to the Western palate, they adapted traditional Chinese dishes, often adding sweetness and using readily available American ingredients. This process of adaptation gave rise to many of the Chinese-American dishes that are still popular today, including Sesame Chicken.
Influence of Chinese-American Cuisine: As Chinese restaurants spread throughout the United States, particularly in the 20th century, they introduced an entirely new culinary tradition. While many dishes like Sesame Chicken might not have originated in China, they are rooted in traditional cooking methods such as stir-frying and steaming. The sauces used—such as soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil—are staples in Chinese kitchens, but the addition of ingredients like sugar and cornstarch to thicken the sauce reflects Western tastes for richer, sweeter flavors.
The dish’s use of sesame oil and seeds offers both flavor and symbolism. In Chinese culture, sesame seeds are believed to bring luck and prosperity, and they add a nutty richness that complements the flavors of the dish. Broccoli, though a Western vegetable, pairs well with stir-fried meats and sauces, adding a crunch and freshness that balance the savory elements of the chicken.
More Information:
Nutritional Benefits: Sesame Chicken with Broccoli can be a well-balanced meal, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and various antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to the dish. Chicken provides a good source of protein while being relatively low in fat when compared to red meat. Sesame oil and seeds add healthy fats and are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
By making a few modifications—such as using less oil, baking the chicken instead of frying it, and reducing the amount of sugar or honey in the sauce—this dish can be a healthy option for those looking to reduce calories or sugar intake.
Adaptations and Variations: This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for various adaptations to meet dietary needs:
- Low-carb/keto option: Serve the sesame chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Tofu can be fried or baked for a crispy texture similar to the chicken.
- Spicy version: Add a tablespoon of Sriracha or chili garlic paste to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is also great for meal prepping. The dish stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners.
Conclusion:
Sesame Chicken with Broccoli has grown from its humble beginnings in Chinese-American restaurants to become a beloved dish enjoyed by many households worldwide. Its combination of crispy chicken, fresh broccoli, and savory sesame sauce creates a flavor profile that is universally appealing. The adaptability of the dish, whether to meet specific dietary preferences or to experiment with flavors, has allowed it to remain a favorite for generations.
Beyond its delightful taste, Sesame Chicken with Broccoli tells the story of how Chinese cuisine evolved in the United States, blending traditional cooking methods with American ingredients and tastes. This dish represents not only a culinary success but also the cultural resilience and innovation of Chinese immigrants, whose contributions to the American culinary landscape have left a lasting legacy.
Whether you’re preparing it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, Sesame Chicken with Broccoli is sure to impress with its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and comforting familiarity.