As I pulled the tender chicken thighs from the oven, the sweet and spicy aroma of hot honey garlic enveloped my kitchen, making it impossible to resist. This weeknight winner, the Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini, is the ultimate one-pan meal that not only simplifies dinner prep but also delivers a satisfying experience for busy home chefs. The combination of juicy chicken and perfectly roasted zucchini coated in a sticky glaze is both a time-saver and a flavor bomb. Whether you’re looking for a quick yet wholesome meal or just a delicious way to shake things up from the usual takeout, this dish will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table. Want to create a flavor-packed, fuss-free dinner tonight? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe! Why is this recipe a winner? Simplicity: This Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy hot honey garlic glaze adds a mouthwatering kick that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. Versatile Veggies: Feel free to swap in yellow squash or other seasonal vegetables, allowing for creativity and variety in your meals. One-Pan Wonder: With everything roasted together, cleanup is a breeze—leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing dishes! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is sure to impress family and friends, making it an ideal option for gatherings or casual dinners. Pair it with Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a fun dinner combo! Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Ingredients For the Chicken Chicken Thighs – Perfectly tender and juicy; boneless, skinless thighs are recommended for easy eating. Hot Honey – Delivers a delightful blend of sweetness and spice; if unavailable, mix regular honey with crushed red pepper flakes for a quick substitute. Soy Sauce – Enhances the dish’s umami flavor; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching salt intake. Garlic – Freshly minced garlic introduces a robust aroma; garlic powder can work in a pinch, but the fresh stuff shines here. For the Vegetables Zucchini – Adds a refreshing crunch and sweet flavor; you can also use yellow squash for a fun twist. Olive Oil – Helps vegetables roast beautifully; avocado oil is a great alternative for a different flavor profile. Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; kosher salt boosts flavors wonderfully. Paprika – Infuses a warm, smoky richness; use sweet or smoked varieties based on your taste preference. Onion Powder – Enhances the flavor complexity; feel free to omit if it’s not your thing. For Garnish Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish; substitute with cilantro if you prefer a different herb. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving beautifully roasted chicken and zucchini. Make sure your oven is fully heated while you prepare the marinade and the chicken, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly for your Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini. Step 2: Prepare the Marinade In a mixing bowl, whisk together hot honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder until well combined. This mixture will serve as the delicious glaze for your chicken and veggies. The aroma of the garlic and honey will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful meal. Step 3: Marinate the Chicken Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl with half of the marinade, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors, but if you have more time, don’t hesitate to let it sit longer. This step is crucial for elevating the taste of your Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini. Step 4: Prepare the Zucchini While the chicken marinates, slice the zucchini into half-moon shapes. In a separate bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. This will enhance their natural flavor and ensure they roast beautifully alongside the chicken, creating a colorful and delicious meal. Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup, place the marinated chicken thighs in the center. Scatter the seasoned zucchini around the chicken, creating an inviting spread for your Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini. Make sure there’s space between the pieces to allow for proper roasting. Step 6: Add the Remaining Marinade Drizzle the remaining marinade over both the chicken and zucchini. This final touch will amplify the flavors and create a sticky glaze as everything cooks. Make sure to cover the chicken and zucchini generously without drowning them in sauce to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. Step 7: Bake to Perfection Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken; it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and develops a slight char on the edges. The zucchini should be fork-tender but still retain some crunch, ensuring a delightful texture in your meal. Step 8: Garnish and Serve Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Your Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini is now ready to be served! Pair it with rice or quinoa, and enjoy this easy, flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Make Ahead Options These Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini are a fantastic option for meal prep warriors! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to truly penetrate for a more delicious result. Additionally, chop your zucchini and toss it in olive oil, salt, and pepper, keeping it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply arrange the marinated chicken and zucchini on a baking sheet, drizzle the remaining marinade, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. This makes dinner stress-free and ensures your meal tastes just as fresh and flavorful, even when prepped ahead! Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Variations Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on my favorite weeknight recipe! Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless breasts for a lighter option that’s still juicy. Just be cautious not to overcook them! Veggie Medley: Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus for an extra crunch and vibrant presentation. The more, the merrier when it comes to veggies! Herb Swap: Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or cilantro to bring a new flavor profile that complements the hot honey beautifully. Each herb adds its unique touch! Spicy Kick: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes in your marinade or drizzle a bit of sriracha for an exciting and spicy punch. Don’t be afraid to spice things up! Honey Mustard: Mix in some Dijon mustard with the hot honey for a tangy spin that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and zucchini’s sweetness. It’s a perfect fusion of flavors! Sweet Potato Addition: Toss in some diced sweet potatoes alongside the zucchini for a wholesome, hearty addition that will fill you up while adding natural sweetness. Each bite will be a flavor surprise! Citrus Burst: Squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the dish before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a zesty finish to your meal. The citrus elevates everything! Asian Twist: Try adding sesame oil to the marinade along with some sesame seeds on top after baking for an Asian-inspired flair that truly enhances the dish. Pair with Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon for a scrumptious dinner duo! How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, preserving the dish’s texture. Wrap Carefully: If storing in portions, wrap individual servings in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. This will help maintain the sheet pan hot honey garlic chicken and zucchini’s delicious flavors. Helpful Tricks for Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Marination Time: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to deeply infuse into the chicken, making it tender and flavorful. Check Temperatures: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This helps avoid undercooking or overcooking, guaranteeing perfectly juicy chicken. Zucchini Care: Be mindful not to overcook the zucchini. It should be tender but still crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken in the Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini. Oil Distribution: When tossing your zucchini with olive oil, make sure it’s evenly coated. This helps achieve that beautiful caramelization without sogginess. Cleanup Hack: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple trick saves you time on cleanup and prevents sticking, making your cooking experience even more enjoyable. What to Serve with Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Looking to build a delightful dinner around your vibrant, flavor-packed creation? Fluffy Rice: The perfect base to soak up the sticky hot honey garlic sauce, giving each bite a wholesome heartiness. Quinoa Salad: A light, nutty option that adds protein and a refreshing crunch, perfectly balancing the richer chicken flavors. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery slices provide a wonderful contrast of textures, allowing for a satisfying dip into the delicious sauce. Roasted Asparagus: With its tender yet crisp bites, asparagus adds a beautiful green hue and subtle earthiness to your meal. Crisp Green Salad: A mix of peppery arugula, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette brightens the palate and refreshes the taste buds. Savory Coleslaw: The crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots, dressed lightly, brings a tangy, refreshing element to counterbalance the sweetness of the chicken. Iced Tea or Lemonade: A cool, refreshing drink like iced tea or homemade lemonade complements the spicy notes perfectly, making it a delightful pairing. Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finale, rich chocolate mousse offers a luxurious ending that balances the spicy main course. Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right zucchini for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting zucchini, look for ones that are firm, with smooth skin and vibrant color. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or are overly soft, as these can be signs of overripeness. Smaller zucchinis tend to be sweeter and less seedy, which is ideal for this dish. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the dish fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven for the best texture, as microwave reheating can make the chicken a bit rubbery. Can I freeze the Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini? Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely after cooking. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap individual servings in foil or plastic wrap. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through evenly. What if my chicken isn’t cooked through after the suggested baking time? No worries at all! Ovens can vary, so if your chicken isn’t at least 165°F (74°C) after 30 minutes, simply cover it loosely with foil to keep it from browning too much and continue baking until it reaches the correct temperature. I recommend checking every 5 minutes or so until it’s perfectly cooked. Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions? Very much so! This dish is easily adaptable; for instance, if you have a soy allergy, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor. Additionally, if you’re concerned about spiciness, feel free to reduce the hot honey or leave it out altogether. It’s a flexible recipe that can cater to various dietary needs! Can pets enjoy this recipe too? While the chicken itself is fine for pets, avoid giving them the portions that contain soy sauce or hot honey, which may not be suitable. Always consult your vet for specifics regarding your pet’s dietary needs. Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini Bliss This Sheet Pan Hot Honey Garlic Chicken and Zucchini is a one-pan meal that brings sweet and spicy flavors together effortlessly, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighs Perfectly tender and juicy.1/3 cup Hot honey For a sweet and spicy glaze.2 tablespoons Soy sauce Low-sodium recommended.4 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.For the Vegetables2 medium Zucchini Sliced into half-moon shapes.2 tablespoons Olive oil For roasting.1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.1/2 teaspoon Black pepper For seasoning.1 teaspoon Paprika Sweet or smoked varities are good.1 teaspoon Onion powder Optional.For Garnish2 tablespoons Fresh parsley Chopped. Equipment ovenmixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).In a mixing bowl, whisk together hot honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder until well combined.Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with half of the marinade and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.Slice the zucchini into half-moon shapes and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.On a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place the marinated chicken thighs in the center and scatter seasoned zucchini around.Drizzle the remaining marinade over both the chicken and zucchini.Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesMarinate chicken for at least 10 minutes for best flavor. Check temperatures to ensure chicken is safely cooked and zucchini is tender yet crisp. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
