This Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini is a tasty one-pan meal! The chicken is coated in a sweet and spicy honey garlic sauce that makes it irresistible.
Plus, the zucchini gets perfectly tender and soaks up all those yummy flavors. I love that it’s quick to make, and clean-up is a breeze—just one pan to wash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for skinless chicken breasts instead.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are perfect here, but you could substitute with bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots based on what you have. Just cut them to similar sizes for even cooking!
Honey: Honey gives a lovely sweetness. If you’re vegan or want a sugar substitute, try maple syrup or agave nectar for similar results!
Sriracha: Adjust the heat to your preference. If you don’t have Sriracha, a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce can also add some heat.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce provides great umami flavor, but you can use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a soy-free swap.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
The chicken is the star of this dish, so getting it just right is key. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out tender:
- Choose thighs for moisture, and if using breasts, don’t overcook them. A meat thermometer can be your best friend here; they should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t skip the marinating step! Letting the chicken soak in that hot honey garlic sauce before baking really enhances flavor.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F) to caramelize the sauce while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Using the broil setting at the end can give a nice crispy finish to the chicken and enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Zucchini:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray with cooking oil—this helps with easy clean-up!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, Sriracha, soy sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your hot honey garlic sauce that brings tons of flavor to the chicken and zucchini.
3. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the sliced zucchini around the chicken in a single layer. This allows everything to cook evenly and soak up the tasty sauce.
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour half of the hot honey garlic sauce over the chicken and zucchini. Use a spoon or spatula to toss the zucchini gently, making sure they’re evenly coated. Set aside the other half of the sauce for later.
5. Bake:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked (165°F or 75°C internal temperature) and the zucchini to be tender.
6. Final Steps with Broiling:
When everything is beautifully cooked, take the pan out of the oven and drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken and zucchini. If you’d like, you can place it under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce a little, which adds an incredible flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before diving in, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top. This adds a nice fresh touch and color. Now you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini!
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely first for even cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better sauce adherence.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like it spicier, feel free to add more Sriracha to the sauce! On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or eliminate the Sriracha altogether. Alternatively, serve the dish with a side of hot sauce for those who want an extra kick!
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
This recipe is quite versatile! Feel free to substitute the zucchini with bell peppers, broccoli, or asparagus. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
