As I was flipping through my favorite recipe book, I stumbled upon a wonderful memory: the perfect blend of sweet and spicy simmering together in my kitchen. That’s exactly the feeling I get every time I make Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli. This easy sheet pan dinner is a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights, delivering bold flavors with minimal fuss. Not only does it come together in just 45 minutes, but this recipe also gives you a health-conscious option without sacrificing taste, making it a real crowd-pleaser. Imagine savory chicken glazed with honey and hot sauce, perfectly paired with tender yet crisp broccoli—it’s a delightful adventure for your palate! Ready to discover how this one-pan gem comes together? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken?
Simplicity at Its Finest: This recipe requires minimal prep and just one pan for cooking, making cleanup a breeze.
Bold Flavors: The harmonious blend of honey and hot sauce offers a delightful contrast that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Nutritious Pairing: The addition of roasted broccoli not only brightens the plate but packs essential nutrients into every bite.
Customizable Options: Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice to suit your family’s taste, ensuring everyone is happy at the table.
Quick Cooking Time: In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful meal, freeing up your evening for other activities. Perfect for those busy nights!
Elevate your dinner game with this delightful dish and explore similar flavors in our Buffalo Chicken Bombs for another delicious option!
Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Juicy protein source that absorbs the flavors of the sauce; use boneless, skinless for easy prep.
• Olive Oil – Helps achieve golden-roasted chicken; divide two tablespoons to coat both chicken and broccoli.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor without overwhelming; adjust to your taste.
For the Broccoli
• Broccoli – Adds nutrition and a satisfying crunch; fresh is ideal, but frozen works in a pinch.
For the Sauce
• Hot Sauce – Forms the spicy backbone of the dish; choose your preferred brand to adjust heat levels.
• Honey – Provides sweetness and a sticky glaze, enhancing the overall flavor of the Honey Buffalo Chicken.
• Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth; use three cloves for maximum flavor impact.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the sauce with acidity, balancing the richness of the honey and butter.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness to elevate the flavor profile.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional) – If you crave extra heat, adjust according to your preference.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce, making it irresistible.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley & Green Onions – Provide a fresh pop of color and flavor; sprinkle generously before serving.
Ready to create a delicious meal? Toss these ingredients together, and savor the joy of making your own Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli tonight!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup. This will get your sheet pan ready for delicious roasting, ensuring the chicken and broccoli come out perfectly crispy and tender.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Toss the chicken thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. Spread the seasoned chicken on one half of the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced out for even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli
Take your fresh broccoli florets and place them in the same mixing bowl. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over them, along with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the broccoli until well coated, then spread it out evenly on the other half of the baking sheet, ensuring it’s not overcrowded.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken and Broccoli
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the chicken and broccoli for about 15 minutes. You should see the chicken starting to brown and the edges of the broccoli turning a vibrant green. This initial roasting will begin the transformation into your delightful Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli.
Step 5: Make the Honey Buffalo Sauce
While the chicken and broccoli roast, grab a saucepan and over medium heat, whisk together the hot sauce, honey, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth and combined, about 3-5 minutes. This fragrant sauce will add that perfect zing to your chicken.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken
After 15 minutes in the oven, carefully drizzle half of the prepared honey buffalo sauce over the chicken. Use tongs to toss and coat each piece thoroughly, ensuring they are enveloped in that rich, tangy glaze. This step is essential for infusing flavor into the chicken.
Step 7: Finish Roasting
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 10-12 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), while the broccoli becomes tender and slightly charred, bringing out its natural sweetness. Keep an eye on them for visual cues of doneness.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once your Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. To serve, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and sliced green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Remember to serve with the reserved honey buffalo sauce on the side for an extra flavor kick!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli
Looking for delightful dishes that will elevate your meal and perfectly accompany the sweet-spicy flavors of this one-pan wonder?
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the crispy chicken and broccoli, adding a comforting element to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra honey buffalo sauce, making every bite an indulgent treat.
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Quinoa Salad: This light and refreshing salad adds a nutty crunch, complementing the chicken’s richness while offering a healthy boost of fiber. Consider mixing in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for extra flavor!
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Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy and sweet elements of the chicken, balancing the dish beautifully with its crisp texture.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes harmonizes with the honey in the chicken, creating a flavorful match made in heaven.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A glass of chilled sparkling water with a splash of lemon brightens the meal, cleansing the palate between bites and keeping things light.
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Dark Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, a rich brownie offers a sweet finale that plays off the honey in the chicken, leaving everyone with satisfied smiles!
Embrace the balance of flavors and textures as you enjoy your Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli, letting each side dish enhance your dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prep the chicken and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and toss the broccoli with oil and seasoning. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful meal, simply roast the chicken and broccoli as directed, adding the honey buffalo sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, you’ll achieve the same mouthwatering results with just a fraction of the time spent in the kitchen!
Variations & Substitutions for Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Thigh Meat: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier bite that’s full of flavor. They always add a richer taste!
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Different Veggies: Replace broccoli with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus for a colorful twist that adds variety and nutrition to your meal.
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Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken. Marinate them in the same honey buffalo sauce for a delicious plant-based alternative that everyone will love.
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Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level by increasing the cayenne pepper or choosing a spicier hot sauce. For those who crave extra heat, feel free to experiment!
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Gluten-Free Sauce: Make sure to choose gluten-free hot sauce and sauces to keep your dish gluten-free and worry-free. Always check labels for hidden ingredients!
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Maple Sweetener: If you don’t have honey on hand, maple syrup makes for a wonderful substitute, offering a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the spice.
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Add a Crunch: Toss in some sliced almonds or crushed walnuts during the last few minutes of roasting. This adds delightful texture and an extra nutty flavor.
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Combine with Grains: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a hearty, wholesome meal that bulks up the nutrition and keeps you satisfied. Delicious paired with a fresh salad too!
Discover other exciting flavors with our scrumptious Marry Chicken Pasta or try out an outback classic in our Alice Springs Chicken recipe, each promising a flavor journey that’s sure to delight!
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness; this keeps your Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken succulent and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain moisture and flavor.
Wrap Well: If freezing, use plastic wrap followed by foil for an extra layer of protection against freezer burn, keeping your chicken and broccoli delicious for your next meal!
Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken
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Uniform Pieces: Ensure chicken pieces are cut evenly to promote uniform cooking and achieve that perfect golden finish.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) for safety.
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Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen broccoli, add it directly to the pan without thawing. This will prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish.
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Sauce Balance: Taste the honey buffalo sauce before adding it to the chicken; adjust hot sauce or honey according to your heat preference and sweetness.
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Make Ahead: Prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then just assemble and roast for a quick, last-minute meal packed with flavor!
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Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep chicken moist, making your next meal just as delightful!
Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for boneless and skinless pieces that are firm to the touch and light pink in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off odor, as these indicate they may not be fresh.
Can I store leftovers from Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure that it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.
How do I freeze the Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken?
Absolutely, freezing is a fantastic option! First, allow the chicken and broccoli to cool completely. Next, portion them into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, and be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, ensure that the chicken pieces are of uniform size before roasting. If they’re still unevenly cooked, you can slice larger pieces in half to help them cook through more quickly. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! This sheet pan recipe can be easily tailored for gluten-free diets by ensuring the hot sauce and any other sauces used are gluten-free. For those with allergies, always check ingredient labels for potential allergens like garlic or hot sauce ingredients. Also, be mindful not to serve the dish to pets, especially if it contains spices or other ingredients that may not be suitable for them.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Definitely! If you’re in a pinch, using frozen broccoli works just fine. You can add it straight to the sheet pan without thawing; it might release a little extra moisture, so just keep an eye on roasting time. Adjust the cooking time slightly to cook until the broccoli is tender and starting to brown.
Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread on one half of the baking sheet.
- Coat broccoli with remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on the other half of the baking sheet.
- Roast chicken and broccoli for about 15 minutes, or until starting to brown.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together hot sauce, honey, garlic, vinegar, paprika, cayenne, and butter until smooth.
- Drizzle half of the honey buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.
- Return baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
- Let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley and green onions before serving.
