Unlock the secret: how to make sesame chicken with broccoli that rivals takeout
Craving a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures? Sesame chicken with broccoli is a delectable dish that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. This blog post will guide you through every step of the culinary journey, from prepping the ingredients to savoring the final masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 16 ounces broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg. Dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs and sesame seeds.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
3. Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is frying, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Add the fried chicken and steamed broccoli to the sauce and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the sesame chicken with broccoli over rice or noodles and garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Tips for Perfection:
- For a crispier chicken, double-coat the chicken in the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs mixture.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs.
- For a sweeter sauce, add an additional tablespoon of brown sugar.
- To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or onions.
- Use Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki, orange, or honey garlic.
- Make it Spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Benefits:
Sesame chicken with broccoli is a relatively healthy dish that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Fiber: Broccoli is a good source of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Vitamins: Sesame seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage.
Conclusion:
Making sesame chicken with broccoli is a culinary adventure that is sure to impress your taste buds. With its tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and flavorful sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own home.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply thaw it before steaming.
Q: What can I serve sesame chicken with broccoli with?
A: Sesame chicken with broccoli pairs well with rice, noodles, or a side salad.
Q: How long can I store leftover sesame chicken with broccoli?
A: Leftover sesame chicken with broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
