This Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken and tender zucchini get a sweet and spicy kick from the hot honey and garlic sauce.
You’ll love how simple this recipe is—just toss everything on one pan, pop it in the oven, and relax! Plus, less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicy and flavorful, but you can easily swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness earlier.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a nice crunch, but if you don’t have it on hand, try bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. They can batch well with chicken!
Honey: For sweetness, honey is perfect. If you’re out, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as good alternatives, offering similar sweetness but with a different flavor note.
Hot Sauce: I love using sriracha for its balanced heat and flavor. If sriracha isn’t your thing, feel free to use your favorite hot sauce or even a mild chili paste for a less spicy option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings great flavor, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder can be used as a last resort—just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
To achieve juicy and tender chicken, start by not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness at 165°F (75°C). Brining your chicken beforehand or letting it marinate in the sauce for a bit can also help keep it moist.
- Preheat the oven properly before baking.
- Spread chicken and zucchini in a single layer to avoid steaming.
- If using breasts, check them at 15-20 minutes, as they can cook quicker than thighs.
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
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as sriracha)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to roast in the oven. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes to enjoy your wonderful sheet pan hot honey garlic chicken with zucchini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting and helps to caramelize the chicken and zucchini. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. This sauce is what gives your chicken a sweet and spicy flavor that you’ll love!
3. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the zucchini slices around the chicken. This way, everything cooks together nicely!
4. Coat Everything:
Pour the honey garlic hot sauce evenly over the chicken and zucchini. Use tongs or a spoon to make sure everything is well coated. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
5. Spread It Out:
Make sure to spread everything out in a single layer. This allows the chicken and zucchini to roast evenly and get a nice color.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Roast everything in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through—check it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)—and the zucchini should be tender and slightly browned.
7. Optional Broil for Caramelization:
If you want a slightly crispy caramelized finish, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps to keep the chicken juicy. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Enjoy your flavorful, easy sheet pan hot honey garlic chicken with zucchini! It’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken with Zucchini
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
While bone-in chicken can be used, it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. You may also need to cover the chicken with foil to prevent the skin from burning while cooking through.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If zucchini isn’t available, you can use other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or even green beans. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a little water or broth to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, add more hot sauce, or incorporate fresh chopped chili peppers or red pepper flakes. Adjust to your heat preference for the perfect kick!
