08 May 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 12 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup brown rice
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp sesame seeds
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 garlic clove
1 egg white egg whites
2 tbsp cornstarch
4 chicken breasts
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cups broccoli
2 cups onion
Honey sesame chicken with brown rice and veggies is a delightful and nutritious dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option. It combines tender chicken breast with a sweet and savory honey sesame sauce, served over hearty brown rice and paired with crisp-tender broccoli and caramelized onions. This balanced meal is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it not only delicious but also healthy.
Instructions:
1. Cook the Brown Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of water and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then stir in the 1/2 cup of brown rice.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of honey, 2 tbsp of soy sauce, and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Stir well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until frothy.
- Add the 2 tbsp of cornstarch, a dash of salt, and a dash of black pepper to the egg white and mix until smooth.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary.
- Add the 2 cups of sliced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the 2 cups of broccoli florets and stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the honey-soy sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
- Stir to coat everything evenly and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the chicken and vegetables.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the 2 tbsp of sesame seeds over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Serve the honey sesame chicken and veggies over a bed of the cooked brown rice.
Tips:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their nutty aroma.
- Cook the brown rice ahead of time or use pre-cooked brown rice to save time.
- When cooking the veggies, aim for a crisp-tender texture to retain their nutritional value.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer until it reaches desired consistency.
Cooking honey sesame chicken with brown rice and veggies is a gratifying experience that yields a well-balanced and mouthwatering meal. By following the recipe and incorporating the provided tips, you can enjoy a dish that's not only delicious but also nourishing. Serve it hot, relish the harmonious blend of flavors, and appreciate the wholesome ingredients that make this recipe a standout choice for any occasion.