This Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini is a winner! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with sweet and spicy honey garlic sauce, all roasted together for a tasty one-pan meal.
I love how simple it is! Just toss everything on a sheet pan and bake. Less time cleaning up means more time for fun—like grabbing an extra piece of that yummy chicken! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my go-to for this recipe because they stay juicy. If you prefer, chicken breasts will work too. For a leaner option, consider turkey cutlets or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add great flavor and texture. If they’re out of season, bell peppers or asparagus can be great substitutes, just adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may take less time to roast.
Honey: Honey provides sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, try maple syrup or agave. They’ll bring a similar sweetness with a different flavor.
Sriracha: I like the kick it brings, but if it’s too spicy, feel free to reduce or swap it for a milder hot sauce. You could also add BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor if that suits your taste.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Tender?
The chicken needs careful attention to avoid overcooking. Start by ensuring the oven is fully preheated. A temperature of 425°F is great for achieving a nice sear and caramelization.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes and, if needed, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden finish. Just watch closely!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy and packed with flavor! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or rounds
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon red chili flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, making it a quick option for a weeknight dinner. All you need to do is toss everything on a sheet pan for easy cooking and cleanup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). To make cleanup easier, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil. This will catch any drips and keep things tidy!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, sriracha, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This sauce is what brings all the flavor to your chicken and zucchini!
3. Arrange the Chicken and Zucchini:
Place the chicken thighs on the lined sheet pan and arrange the sliced zucchini around them. The chicken should have enough space to cook evenly, so don’t overcrowd the pan!
4. Add the Sauce:
Drizzle the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and zucchini. Make sure everything gets a good coat of that delicious sauce. The more flavor, the better!
5. Toss the Zucchini:
Toss the zucchini lightly on the pan to ensure they are fully coated in the sauce. Spread them out so they can roast nicely without steaming.
6. Bake:
Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the zucchini will be tender. It’s a good time to check on it halfway through!
7. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you like a caramelized finish, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning—it can happen quickly!
8. Garnish:
Once done, remove the pan from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot honey garlic chicken with zucchini right away, spooning any remaining sauce from the pan over the top. Enjoy this tasty, spicy-sweet dish with your family!
Your flavorful, spicy-sweet sheet pan chicken with nutritious zucchini is ready to be enjoyed. It’s easy, quick, and oh-so-delicious!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken safely in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for 1-2 hours. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the meat’s juiciness!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t available, you can substitute it with bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli. Just remember that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in cook time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the honey garlic sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, simply arrange it with the zucchini on the sheet pan and proceed from there!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken from drying out. Enjoy your delicious meal all over again!
