Name: Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (cut into cubes); 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; kosher salt and black pepper kosher salt and black pepper; 1/4 cup flour or all-purpose gluten-free flour; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup hot sauce; 6 tablespoons salted butter; 1-2 teaspoons seasoned salt; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/4 cup honey; blue cheese or ranch dressing (for serving); sliced green onions (for serving)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that comes together on a single sheet pan, and that’s exactly what makes Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli such a winner in my kitchen. Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of tender chicken mingling with spicy buffalo sauce and the inviting scent of roasted broccoli. This dish not only fills your home with delightful smells, but it also simplifies dinner time by combining proteins and veggies into one easy-to-manage meal.

One evening, tired after a busy work week, I decided to whip up something quick but flavorful. I rummaged through my fridge and found some chicken breasts and broccoli. With a few pantry staples and a trusty baking sheet, I was on my way to creating a dish that would soon become a family favorite. The beauty of Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli lies in its versatility; you can adjust the spice levels and even add other vegetables based on what you have on hand!

As I tossed the chicken in a zesty honey buffalo sauce, I couldn’t help but feel excited about how this would turn out. The chicken turns beautifully crispy on the edges while remaining juicy in the center, and the broccoli gets that lovely char that complements the dish perfectly. It’s meals like these that remind me why I love cooking—it’s not just about feeding the family, but creating something warm and comforting that brings everyone together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
42 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
32 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why We Love This Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli

1. One Pan Wonder

The genius of Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli lies in its simplicity. With just one pan to prepare and clean, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss of multiple dishes. This means more time to relax after dinner and less time scrubbing pots and pans. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as they roast together.

2. Perfect for Meal Prep

Whether you’re busy with work, school, or simply life, this dish is ideal for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just pack the chicken and broccoli in individual containers, and you’ll have a quick, healthy meal ready to go.

3. Kid-Friendly Appeal

Kids love anything with a bit of sweetness and flavor, and the honey in this recipe does just that. The buffalo sauce strikes a perfect balance of heat without being overwhelming, making it appealing for both children and adults. Serve it with some rice, and watch it disappear from their plates!

4. Customizable

One of my favorite aspects of cooking is making a recipe my own. Feel free to swap in different veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, or adjust the spice level based on your family’s preferences. This recipe is a canvas for your creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.

5. Flavor Packed

The combination of spices, honey, and the heat from the buffalo sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Even those who claim not to like broccoli will be tempted by the way it caramelizes and absorbs the savory, spicy flavors of the chicken.

6. Quick and Easy

In less than an hour, you can have a delicious meal on the table. Just toss everything on the baking sheet, let the oven do the work, and enjoy the tantalizing smells filling your kitchen. This is the kind of meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknights.

Recipe Ingredients for Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli

To create a flavorful dish, the ingredients play a crucial role, harmonizing together to deliver that memorable taste. Each element in the Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli has a purpose—from the savory spices that coat the chicken to the crisp, tender broccoli that balances it all out. The combination of heat and sweetness makes this dish truly special.

2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes: The main protein that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a classic flavor that everyone loves.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken.
1/4 cup flour or all-purpose gluten-free flour: Helps to achieve a crispy texture on the chicken.
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used for tossing the chicken and broccoli, adding richness.
3 cups broccoli florets: Adds nutrition and color to the dish.
1/2 cup hot sauce: The star of the show that gives the dish its kick!
6 tablespoons salted butter: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
1-2 teaspoons seasoned salt: Enhances the overall taste.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For those who love an extra kick!
1/4 cup honey: The sweet counterpart to the hot sauce, balancing the flavors.
Blue cheese or ranch dressing, for serving: A creamy element to cool down the heat.
Sliced green onions, for serving: Adds freshness and crunch.

Directions for Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli

Getting started with this recipe is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll savor every moment as you prepare the Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli. Just gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s make dinner magic happen!

Preheat your oven to 450° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or rub with oil to prevent sticking. It’s important to get the oven nice and hot; this will help the chicken get that great texture!
On the sheet pan, toss together the chicken, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is coated well. Then, add the flour and toss again. This will help create that crispy exterior while it bakes.
Drizzle on 2 tablespoons of olive oil, tossing to coat all the pieces evenly. Arrange the chicken to one side of the baking sheet, leaving space for the broccoli. Toss the broccoli florets with the remaining olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, then place them on the other side of the baking sheet.
Now, pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is cooked through when it’s no longer pink inside. Keep an eye on the broccoli too; it should be bright green and slightly crispy!
While that’s baking, it’s time to make the sauce. In a saucepan set over medium heat, melt together the hot sauce, butter, seasoned salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is melted and combined beautifully. Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat and mix in the honey for that sweet balance.
After baking, remove the broccoli from the sheet pan. Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss it to coat well. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to bake into the chicken and caramelize a bit.
Finally, serve your Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli hot, garnished with sliced green onions and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing. I love this dish over rice, but it’s equally great paired with french fries!

What Complements This Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli

When serving Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli, a range of sides and beverages can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious ideas:

Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice makes a wonderful base that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
French Fries: Offer a fun twist; crispy fries are great for dunking in the leftover sauce.
Salads: A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the heat of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider serving roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts alongside.
Breads: Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls can be perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Occasions: This dish works for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even game day gatherings.
Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ

While fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken if needed. Just ensure to thaw it completely before starting the recipe to ensure even cooking. Frozen chicken can release moisture as it cooks, which might affect the crispiness, but the flavors will still be delicious!

There are many sides that pair perfectly with Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli. Rice is a classic choice, as it absorbs the sauce beautifully. French fries add a fun, crispy element, while a fresh salad can balance the meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides based on what you have on hand!

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce in the recipe. Alternatively, mixing in a bit more honey can help balance out the heat. Another option is to serve the chicken with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing to help cool things down.

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store the marinated chicken and broccoli in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making for an even tastier meal when you’re ready to cook!

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli is a fantastic meal that combines the ease of one-pan cooking with the deep flavors we all love. It’s not only a quick recipe to throw together, but it also brings everyone together around the dinner table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll create a delicious dinner that will become a favorite in no time!