Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. This one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The combination of tender ground chicken and vibrant broccoli makes it a nutritious choice for any occasion, appealing to those who love a satisfying, flavorful meal without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pan, allowing you more time to savor your meal.
• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish supports a balanced diet while being incredibly tasty.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your taste, making it suitable for both mild and adventurous palates.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare a batch ahead of time for healthy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken and broccoli.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining sauce ingredients efficiently before adding them to the chicken.
• Cutting Board & Knife: These tools ensure safe and precise cutting of your broccoli florets.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) Ground Chicken (97/3)
• 2-3 Tbsp (30-45g) Sriracha, to spice preference

For the Sauce

• 1/4 C (60g) Sweet Chili Sauce
• 2 Tbsp (42g) Honey
• 2 Tbsp (30g) Soy Sauce
• 1 Tbsp (16g) Toasted Sesame Oil
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Ground Ginger

For the Broccoli

• 12 oz Broccoli Florets, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 Tbsp (16g) Olive Oil, divided

For Garnish

• Sesame Seeds
• Green Onion

How to Make Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Heat 1/2 Tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the broccoli florets and leave untouched for 1-2 minutes to develop some browning on one side.
3. Stir and continue cooking until the broccoli turns a dark green color, about 3-4 minutes longer.
4. Transfer the cooked broccoli to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet.
2. Brown both sides of the ground chicken until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

1. While the chicken cooks, mix together sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, garlic powder, and ground ginger in a mixing bowl.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

1. Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour in the prepared sauce mixture.
2. Cook until thickened, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the previously cooked broccoli back into the skillet.
4. Stir everything together until well coated with sauce.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onion before serving.

How to Serve Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

Serving Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli can elevate your meal experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it.

Over Rice

• Serve the ground chicken and broccoli over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a filling meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken mixture, creating fresh and crunchy bites that are both tasty and low-carb.

With Quinoa

• Pair the dish with quinoa for a protein-packed option, adding an extra nutty flavor that complements the honey sriracha sauce.

As Part of a Bowl

• Create a colorful bowl with this dish, layering it with shredded carrots, edamame, and avocado for added texture and nutrition.

With Noodles

• Toss the ground chicken and broccoli with rice noodles or soba noodles for a delicious take on stir-fried goodness.

How to Perfect Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

To achieve the best results with Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality ground chicken enhance flavors significantly.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference, ensuring it’s just right for your taste buds.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning of the chicken and proper roasting of the broccoli.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch or extra sesame seeds for an authentic touch.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

Complement your Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli with these delicious side dishes that balance its sweetness and spice.

1. Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk adds a creamy sweetness that pairs well with spicy flavors.
2. Garlic Roasted Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed in garlic provide a delightful crunch alongside your main dish.
3. Mango Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced mango, lime juice, and cilantro brightens up your plate.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb cauliflower rice absorbs flavors while offering a healthy alternative to traditional rice.
5. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that complements the spiciness of the chicken.
6. Asian Cucumber Salad: Chilled cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar make a refreshing contrast to the warm main dish.
7. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly stir-fried bok choy offers both flavor and nutrients while keeping things simple.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini noodles add volume without calories, soaking up all those delicious sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes to help you create the perfect dish.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality ground chicken for the best results.
• Overcooking the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy and loses its nutrients. Cook it just until tender, leaving it with a vibrant green color.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision, especially with sauces.
• Skipping the Marinade Time: If possible, letting ground chicken marinate enhances flavor. Even a brief soak in the sauce can make a significant difference.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Following the suggested cooking times is crucial. Overheating can lead to tough chicken or burnt sauce.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishes like sesame seeds and green onion add visual appeal and extra flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle them on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with dates for reference.

Reheating Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for chicken, providing a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

What if I want it less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, decrease the amount of sriracha or omit it entirely. You can also add more sweet chili sauce to balance out the heat.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety. You can also swap out honey for maple syrup if you prefer!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken and Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. Try customizing it with your favorite veggies or adjusting the spiciness level to suit your taste buds! You’ll love how this sweet and spicy dish brings excitement to your dinner table.