This easy sheet pan hot honey garlic chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken, sweet honey, and zesty garlic come together with colorful zucchini all in one pan for a quick meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. If you prefer, feel free to swap in chicken breasts, but be mindful they may cook a bit faster. You can also use bone-in chicken for a deeper flavor, just extend the cooking time.
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini works best for this recipe. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash or bell peppers are great alternatives. They will still provide that lovely color and texture.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and caramelization to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, maple syrup could work, but it’ll change the flavor slightly. For a sugar-free option, try sugar-free honey substitutes available in stores.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to fit your spice preference. Sriracha or even red pepper flakes can be used if you want a different kick. For those who prefer mild flavors, simply leave it out!
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Chicken and Veggies?
Getting golden, juicy chicken alongside tender zucchini can be achieved with a few simple steps. Start with a hot oven and ensure the veggies aren’t overcrowded. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven fully to 425°F (220°C) to create a nice crust on the chicken.
- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Half-moons of zucchini work great!
- Brushing the sauce on generously adds flavor and helps achieve that caramelized finish. Don’t skip broiling at the end for extra browning!
Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to roast in the oven. You’ll have a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for perfectly roasting the chicken and zucchini, giving them a nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This sauce is packed with flavor!
3. Assemble on Baking Sheet:
Lay the chicken thighs on a lined or greased baking sheet. Arrange the sliced zucchini around the chicken to ensure even cooking. This way, everything roasts nicely together, soaking up those wonderful flavors!
4. Add the Sauce:
Brush the honey garlic sauce generously over the chicken and zucchini. Be sure to coat them well, but hold back just a bit of sauce for drizzling when it’s served.
5. Roast the Dish:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be golden and reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), while the zucchini becomes tender.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you like an extra caramelization, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes towards the end of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the dish out and garnish it with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy drizzling any leftover sauce on top for an extra kick!
This simple sheet pan recipe combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with minimal cleanup. Enjoy your hot honey garlic chicken with tender roasted zucchini!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may cook a bit faster than thighs. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re properly cooked!
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini on hand, feel free to use yellow squash or bell peppers. They both cook well and will complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes, you can easily adjust the heat level! Add more hot sauce to the sauce mixture or incorporate red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can also use a spicier variety of hot sauce if desired.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it for a quick lunch or dinner!
