This Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini is a simple and tasty meal. Juicy chicken is drizzled with sweet hot honey and roasted with fresh zucchini—yum!
I love how everything cooks together on one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, the sweet and spicy flavor combo makes it perfect for any dinner. Who doesn’t love a little zing? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is perfect for this recipe, but you can substitute with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli if zucchini isn’t available. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness that balances the heat well. If you’re looking for a sugar substitute, maple syrup works nicely, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor a bit.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat, so adjust to your liking! If you want less heat, use crushed black pepper instead. For a different flavor, try using a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken just right is key for a juicy finish. Here are some tips:
- Start with a good seasoning of salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor.
- Make sure to coat the chicken completely with the honey garlic sauce, promoting even flavor.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Don’t skip the broiling step! It helps create a lovely caramelized glaze on top.
Following these simple tips will help ensure your chicken turns out tender and packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook, making it a quick, wholesome meal you can whip up any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken and zucchini cook evenly while ensuring a nice, crispy finish.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. This sweet and spicy sauce is where all the flavor comes from!
3. Prep the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This will enhance their flavor!
4. Add the Zucchini:
Arrange the sliced zucchinis around the chicken on the baking sheet. This way, they roast together and soak up that delicious sauce!
5. Drizzle the Sauce:
Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and zucchini, ensuring everything is well coated. You can use a brush or a spoon to help spread it out.
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), while the zucchini should be tender.
7. Optional Broil:
If you want a caramelized glaze on the chicken, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. This adds a nice fresh touch!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your hot honey garlic chicken with zucchini immediately, along with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up that tasty sauce. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While zucchini is delicious, you can substitute it with bell peppers, asparagus, broccoli, or even carrots. Just cut them to a similar size so everything roasts evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave but be cautious to not overcook!
Can I Make This Recipe with Bone-In Chicken?
You can, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time. Bone-in chicken usually takes about 35-45 minutes to cook through. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Honey?
If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar makes a great substitute, though it may slightly alter the taste. For a sugar-free option, try using a sugar substitute or omit the sweetener entirely for a more savory dish!
