Dump frozen broccoli and tender chicken pieces into the pot, add a few simple pantry staples, and let everything cook together into a sticky, savory meal. It’s quick, comforting, and so flavorful your family will think you spent much more time in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups frozen broccoli florets
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Cooked white or brown rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into evenly sized bite-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
2. Start Cooking
Heat the oil in a large skillet, Dutch oven, or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are browned and nearly cooked through.
3. Add the Broccoli
Add the frozen broccoli directly to the pot. No need to thaw it first. Stir everything together and cook for another 4–5 minutes until the broccoli is heated through and beginning to soften.
4. Make the Sticky Sauce
Add the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ¼ cup water. Stir well, making sure the chicken and broccoli are coated.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes.
5. Thicken the Sauce
Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until completely smooth. Pour it into the skillet while stirring continuously.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes. The sauce should become glossy, thick, and sticky enough to coat the chicken and broccoli.
6. Serve
Remove from the heat and spoon the sticky chicken and broccoli over freshly cooked rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Chicken thighs stay especially juicy, but chicken breast works perfectly too.
- Keep the broccoli frozen until you’re ready to cook it.
- Add the cornstarch slurry near the end so the sauce thickens without becoming too heavy.
- For extra flavor, add a small amount of grated ginger or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Taste the sauce before adding additional salt because soy sauce is already salty.
Serving Ideas
Serve this sticky chicken and broccoli over steamed white rice, brown rice, fried rice, or even noodles. A simple cucumber salad or steamed vegetables make an easy side dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4–5