Sesame Chicken with Garlicky Broccoli

A Light and Flavorful Takeout-Style Dinner in Just 30 Minutes

This Sesame Chicken is a wholesome, stir-fried version of the classic takeout favorite. Instead of deep-frying, the chicken is lightly browned in a skillet, then simmered in a rich, glossy hoisin-based sauce that delivers the perfect balance of sweet, salty, nutty, and savory flavors. Fresh broccoli is added toward the end for a vibrant, crisp-tender finish, turning this dish into a complete meal that feels both comforting and light.

Serve it over fluffy steamed rice or silky rice noodles to soak up every drop of the delicious sesame sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

This version of Sesame Chicken is designed for easy weeknight cooking without compromising flavor. Hoisin sauce brings sweetness and depth, toasted sesame seeds add nuttiness, and a small drizzle of sesame oil at the end elevates the entire dish with a warm, aromatic finish. Everything cooks quickly in one skillet, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, plus extra for serving
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
• Drizzle of toasted sesame oil
• Cooked rice or rice noodles, for serving

Instructions

1. Brown the chicken
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. It does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
2. Toast the sesame seeds and garlic
   Sprinkle the sesame seeds and garlic powder over the chicken. Stir well to coat, then continue cooking for about 2 minutes, allowing the sesame seeds to lightly toast and release their nutty aroma.
3. Build the sauce
   Pour in the chicken broth and hoisin sauce. Add the black pepper, then stir to combine everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Simmer until cooked through
   Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for about 5 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
5. Add the broccoli
   Remove the lid and add the broccoli florets. Stir them gently into the sauce, then continue cooking until the broccoli reaches your desired texture, usually 3 to 5 minutes for crisp-tender.
6. Finish with sesame oil
   Once the broccoli is cooked, drizzle a small amount of toasted sesame oil over the dish. This adds a deep, aromatic sesame flavor that ties everything together.
7. Serve
   Spoon the sesame chicken and broccoli over warm rice or rice noodles. Sprinkle with additional sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Tips for Success

• Prep ingredients ahead of time
  This stir-fry cooks quickly. Having the chicken, broccoli, and sauce ingredients ready ensures smooth cooking.
• Want a thicker sauce?
  Simmer uncovered for a minute or two before adding the broccoli to reduce the sauce slightly.
• Use toasted sesame oil sparingly
  A small drizzle is enough to enhance the nutty flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Serve with rice or noodles
  Both options work beautifully, absorbing the savory sesame sauce.