This Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini is a time-saver and a flavor bomb! Juicy chicken, sweet honey, and savory garlic come together with tender zucchini—yum!
One pan means less mess for me, and who doesn’t love that? Plus, the sweet and spicy combo makes this dish pop. I often whip it up for busy weeknights, and it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too. Feel free to use chicken legs if that’s what you have, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is great, but if you can’t find any, yellow squash or bell peppers can also add color and flavor to the dish.
Honey: This recipe benefits from honey’s sweetness. If you’re vegan, try maple syrup or agave nectar as an alternative.
Hot Sauce: Adjust this to your heat preference! If you want a milder dish, use less or switch to a milder sauce like sriracha or even a sweet chili sauce for just a hint of spice.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work in a pinch.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy on the Outside?
Getting that crispy outside on your chicken can be key for flavor and texture. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure to preheat your oven properly to 400°F (200°C) before baking.
- If you want even crispier skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning it. This helps it brown better.
- Broil at the end for a few minutes. Just keep a close eye on it! It’ll create delicious caramelization.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set! Enjoy your flavorful and easy dinner!
Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Zucchini:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get things nice and hot for cooking the chicken and zucchini evenly.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This sauce is what makes the chicken so flavorful!
3. Arrange the Chicken and Zucchini:
Take a large sheet pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or give it a light grease. Place the chicken thighs in the center of the pan and arrange the zucchini slices around them. Feel free to get creative with the layout!
4. Coat Everything with Sauce:
Pour the honey-garlic sauce evenly over the chicken and zucchini, making sure everything gets a good coating. This is where the magic happens!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the zucchini is nice and tender.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you like a bit of crispiness, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. Just watch it closely—it can burn quickly!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with rice or some crusty bread, and don’t forget to soak up that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your quick and tasty meal!
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 it’s important to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat it dry before following the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you’re out of zucchini, you can easily swap it for bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as needed.
How to 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. If the sauce thickens during storage, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up when reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and zucchini and marinate them in the sauce in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more. Just bake it right before you’re ready to serve!
