This Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken is a tasty dish that pairs juicy chicken with zucchini, all roasted together for easy cleanup. The hot honey adds a sweet kick that’s just delightful!
I love how all the flavors blend while baking, and the zucchini gets so tender. Plus, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal when you don’t want to fuss in the kitchen. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but you can swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer. They may cook a bit quicker, so just keep an eye on them!
Zucchini: This recipe calls for zucchinis, which roast beautifully. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash or bell peppers would make great substitutes. Just cut them similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Honey: Honey is the star for sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as alternatives. Remember, these choices might change the flavor slightly.
Hot Sauce: The hot sauce adds a nice kick! Adjust the amount to your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, try using a milder hot sauce or even sweet chili sauce for a gentler heat.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Coconut aminos also works for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
To get perfectly cooked chicken, start by using a meat thermometer. This ensures your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Here are some easy tips:
- Space the chicken thighs evenly on the pan to allow for even heat distribution.
- If using chicken breasts, check them at around 20 minutes since they often cook faster.
- For extra juiciness, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. It helps the juices redistribute.
Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken With Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Zucchini:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons or rounds
For The Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sheet pan meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 40 minutes. It’s an easy and quick way to enjoy a flavorful dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease with cooking spray. This makes for easy clean-up later!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is nicely combined and ready to coat your chicken and veggies.
3. Arrange the Chicken and Zucchini:
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared sheet pan. Surround them with the sliced zucchini to make a colorful and appetizing dish. This helps the zucchini cook alongside the chicken and soak up the delicious flavors!
4. Coat Everything with Sauce:
Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and zucchini. Make sure everything gets a good coating! You can give the zucchini a gentle toss to coat in the sauce, but keep the chicken pieces separate.
5. Bake:
Slide the sheet pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The chicken should be cooked through (with an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the zucchini should be tender.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you’d like a nice caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just watch it closely to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if you like a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your flavorful and easy sheet pan meal on its own or with a side of rice or salad!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs with Other Cuts?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be aware that they might cook a little faster (check at around 20 minutes) to avoid drying them out!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! While zucchini is delightful, you can also replace it with yellow squash, bell peppers, or even broccoli. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more hot sauce to the marinade according to your spice preference. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving for an extra kick!
