This Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini is super simple and packed with flavor! The chicken gets a sweet and spicy kick from honey while the zucchini stays tender and delicious.
I love how everything cooks together on one pan—less mess means more time to enjoy! Plus, the combo of sweet and spicy is a winner. You’ll keep reaching for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they stay juicy during cooking. If you only have chicken breasts, those work too, but just check for doneness a little sooner.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add a nice texture. If zucchinis are out of season, you can substitute with yellow squash or even bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Honey: This brings sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It balances the dish with acidity. Rice vinegar is milder, but feel free to use white vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the heat to your liking! For a milder dish, reduce the amount. You could also substitute with fresh chili or omit it altogether.
How Can I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Tender Zucchini?
Getting chicken perfectly cooked while keeping zucchini tender is all about timing and oven heat. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to arrange the chicken and zucchini in a single layer on the sheet pan. This promotes even cooking.
- Check the chicken at the 25-minute mark for doneness. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Keep an eye on the zucchini; you want it tender but not mushy. If the chicken cooks faster, you can remove it early and let the zucchini roast a bit longer.
By following these tips, you’ll have a balanced, delicious meal from the oven!
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)
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for heat)
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil (for the sheet pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, and you’ll need 25-30 minutes for baking. So in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, get your sheet pan ready by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix them well until they’re combined into a smooth sauce.
3. Prepare the Chicken and Zucchini:
On the greased sheet pan, place the chicken thighs in the center and arrange the sliced zucchini around them. This way, everything cooks evenly.
4. Season Everything:
Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken and zucchini to taste. This adds extra flavor to each ingredient.
5. Coat with Sauce:
Now, pour the prepared honey garlic sauce all over the chicken and zucchini. Make sure everything is well-coated for maximum flavor!
6. Bake:
Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through (165°F/74°C) and the zucchini tender and juicy.
7. Broil for a Finish (Optional):
If you like a caramelized top, switch your oven to broil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the chicken and zucchini out of the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve hot with rice or your favorite side dish, and enjoy this delightful meal!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work well in this recipe, but they may cook faster than thighs. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
What if I Don’t Have Honey?
No worries! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. Just keep the same measurements!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water to the zucchini to keep them moist!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots! Just ensure they have similar cooking times so everything is perfectly cooked together.
