Slow cooker sesame chicken with broccoli – 2024

It is essential to find recipes that are convenient and delicious. One of these easy-to-prepare recipes is sesame chicken with broccoli. Not only does this dish pack a delicious hint of sweetness, but it also includes fresh broccoli florets, adding a nutritious touch to your meal. What makes sesame chicken with broccoli even more appealing is its adaptability; it can be served over white or brown rice or with Asian-style noodles. Thanks to the slow cooker, preparing this healthy dish is easy.

Components Recipes Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

• 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well.
• 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, which will help create a smooth texture for the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of salt, but feel free to adjust this based on your personal taste preferences.
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground white pepper. This subtle spice adds depth, though you can season as desired.
• 1/3 cup of soy sauce. This traditional ingredient gives the dish its umami profile.
• 2 teaspoons of finely chopped garlic. Garlic not only enhances flavor but also offers health benefits.
• 1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon of your preferred cooking oil, divided for cooking and sautéing.
• 1/3 cup of hoisin sauce, which contributes a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the chicken wonderfully.
• 1/3 cup of rice vinegar for acidity, balancing out the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon of sambal oelek, adjustable according to your heat preference. This chili paste provides a spicy kick.
• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, which infuses the dish with its distinct nutty flavor.
• 1/2 cup of carrots, julienned for both color and crunch.
• 1/2 cup of shallots, sliced thinly to add sweetness.
• 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets, the star of this dish, providing freshness and texture.
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, to create a thick sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Instructions Recipes Sesame Chicken with Broccoli

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken 

Start your cooking journey by placing 1.5 lbs of chopped chicken breast into a mixing bowl. Season the chicken generously with 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground white pepper. Why is it important to mix these ingredients well? Ensuring an even coating on each piece allows for better texture and flavor throughout the dish. Once combined, set the bowl aside as you prepare the next components.

Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics

In a small nonstick frying pan, warm 1 teaspoon of your chosen cooking oil over medium heat. Once heated, add 2 teaspoons of finely chopped garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Sauté the mixture while stirring for about one minute.

Step 3: Crafting the Sauce

Now, incorporate 1/3 cup of soy sauce, 1/3 cup of hoisin sauce, 1/3 cup of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sambal oelek, and 2 tablespoons of sesame oil into the pan. Bring this mixture to a simmer while stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about one minute before removing it from the heat. This step not only blends the flavors but also creates a rich sauce that will envelop your ingredients.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

In a large nonstick skillet or wok, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat until it’s quite hot. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken while frequently stirring for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until it turns a lovely, even light brown. Be cautious; the cooking process may lead to some splattering, so using a long-handled utensil will keep you safe.

Step 5: Stir-Frying the Vegetables

Once the chicken is perfectly browned, use a slotted utensil to transfer it out of the pan. Pour in an additional 2 tablespoons of cooking oil and toss in 1/2 cup of julienned carrots, 1/2 cup of sliced shallots, and 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll want to keep the ingredients moving to achieve a uniform cook while preserving their bright colors and crunch.

Step 6: Combining the Sauce and Vegetables

Next, pour the sauce you prepared earlier into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Continue to cook and stir until the vegetables reach your desired tenderness, which should take around 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7: Thickening the Sauce

To give your dish the perfect consistency, prepare a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce in a small bowl. Ensure there are no lumps for optimal texture. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring vigorously to combine. Reintroduce the chicken pieces and continue to stir frequently for another 2 to 3 minutes as everything heats through.

Step 8: The Finishing Touches

Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish. Serve it while piping hot .

Nutritional Information (for each serving)