Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Chicken
Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Chicken: The Perfect Weeknight Dinner
There’s something magical about sheet pan dinners. They’re the ultimate solution for hectic evenings when you need a delicious, wholesome meal without the fuss. Our Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is a prime example of this culinary wonder. With just a bit of prep, you can have a vibrant, flavor-packed dish ready in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a dream come true for anyone seeking simplicity without compromising on taste. The juicy chicken breasts, combined with fresh carrots, broccoli, and snow peas, create a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The honey garlic sauce, with its blend of brown sugar, soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic, adds a delightful glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large baking sheet
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless butterflied chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz.) package baby carrots, sliced in half (lengthwise)
- 4 cups broccoli florets, halved
- 2 cups snow peas
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- Sauce:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cups water, divided
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by making the sauce. Whisk together the cornstarch and 1/2 cup of water to create a slurry, then set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, garlic, ginger, onion powder, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and 1 1/2 cups of water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously. Incorporate the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 425º F. Place the chicken breasts on a large baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the carrots, broccoli, and snow peas around the chicken.
- Pour 1 cup of the honey garlic sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing to ensure everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with more sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure that the chicken breasts are of similar thickness to cook evenly.
- Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before baking.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, reduce the amount of cornstarch. This recipe is also great with bell peppers or asparagus in place of the broccoli or snow peas.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted as they might take longer to cook through.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it. Allow the dish to cool completely, then freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s a nutritious meal that everyone in the family will love. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you in the comments below. Happy cooking!
