Name: Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 breasts boneless skinless chicken (about 1.50 pounds total); ⅓ cup olive oil (plus more for drizzling); ⅓ cup honey; ¼ cup horseradish (prepared creamy refrigerated); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (or to taste; plus more for asparagus); 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste; plus more for asparagus); 1 to 2 pounds fresh asparagus (trimmed); 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped, optional for garnishing)

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When I think of easy yet delicious meals that bring the family together, I can’t help but rave about Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus. Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, and everyone’s running around, trying to finish their homework and get ready for the next day. The last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen, but I also want a meal that’s satisfying and healthy. That’s when I discovered the beauty of sheet pan dinners. With just a bit of prep work, everything cooks together beautifully, and clean-up is a breeze. The combination of tender chicken, zesty horseradish, and crisp asparagus makes this dish incredibly memorable.

Gathering around the dinner table to enjoy a meal like Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus becomes a cherished family tradition. It’s comforting to know that my loved ones are enjoying something homemade without all the fuss. Plus, the sweet-and-spicy flavors of honey and horseradish combined with the freshness of asparagus create a delightful harmony on your palate. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits the bill for any occasion.

I always find myself coming back to this dish, especially during the spring when fresh asparagus is abundant. It reminds me of warmer days and the joy of sharing meals outdoors. So why not take a break from the routine and whip up some Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus? You and your loved ones won’t regret it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Chef’s Knife

Why This Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus Is So Good

There are a few reasons why Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus stands out in my kitchen.

Effortless Preparation

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare. You simply toss everything together and let the oven do the work. No complicated techniques are required, making it perfect for busy nights.

Balanced Flavors

The sweet honey balances beautifully with the spicy horseradish, resulting in a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The chicken becomes tender while absorbing these flavors, making every bite a delight.

Nutritious and Wholesome

With plenty of protein from the chicken and essential vitamins from the asparagus, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious. You’re not just feeding your cravings; you’re also nourishing your body.

Minimal Clean-Up

One of my favorite things about sheet pan meals is how little mess they create. After dinner, there’s only one pan to clean, which is always a win in my book.

Customizable Options

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit whatever veggies you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the asparagus for broccoli or Brussels sprouts. The fundamental flavors will still shine through!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who loves meal prepping, this dish is a great choice. You can make a batch ahead of time, and it holds up well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus

The ingredients for Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus are simple yet impactful. Every element plays a crucial role in creating a well-rounded dish that bursts with flavor. From the tender chicken to the fresh asparagus, these ingredients work together seamlessly to produce a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also delightful to eat.

3 to 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.50 pounds total) – The star of the dish, chicken breasts are lean and absorb the flavors beautifully.
⅓ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling – Olive oil adds richness and helps the chicken and veggies roast nicely.
⅓ cup honey – Sweetens the dish while complementing the horseradish perfectly.
¼ cup horseradish – Provides a zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon Kosher salt, or to taste; plus more for asparagus – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; plus more for asparagus – Adds warmth and depth.
1 to 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed – Offers a bright, crisp texture to the meal.
2 to 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnishing – Adds color and freshness to the finished dish.

The Process for Making Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus

Making Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus is a delightful experience. You’ll find that the process is straightforward and yields incredible results. Let’s dive into the steps!

Start by taking a large ziptop bag and adding in the chicken breasts. Pour in the olive oil, followed by the honey, horseradish, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag tightly, and give it a good squish to mix everything evenly. This is where the flavors begin to meld together, so take a moment to enjoy the process. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have the time, let it sit overnight for an even deeper flavor.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This step will make cleaning up much easier later on!
After lining the baking sheet, spray it lightly with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking. Carefully place the marinated chicken on the sheet, spreading it out evenly.
Now, it’s time to bake! Pop the baking sheet into the oven for about 18 to 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens. You’ll start to notice the smell of the chicken as it roasts, and it’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Once the chicken has baked for a while, it’s time to flip it over. Remove the pan from the oven, and with tongs, carefully turn the chicken over. This helps ensure even cooking.
Now, add the asparagus! Place the trimmed pieces around the chicken on the baking sheet. Feel free to scatter them around the perimeter of the pan for a beautiful presentation.
Drizzle a little more olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper to taste. This will season the veggies and bring out their natural sweetness. Give them a gentle toss to ensure they’re coated.
Return the pan to the oven and continue to bake for another 10 to 14 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the asparagus is crisp-tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once everything is perfectly cooked, take the pan out of the oven. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving. You can whisk together a bit of extra honey and horseradish to drizzle over the chicken if you’d like an extra flavor boost!

Things Worth Knowing

Marination Matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate not only enhances the flavor but also makes it juicy and tender.
Watch the Time: Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so check for doneness to ensure a great result.
Choosing Asparagus: Opt for medium-sized asparagus; thick ones can be tough, while thin ones might overcook.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh for quick meals.

Substitutions and Tips

Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus is versatile and can be adapted in various ways. Here are some tips to make this dish your own!

Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with another sweetener.
Herb Variations: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Experiment with Vegetables: You can easily swap asparagus for other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers based on your preferences.
Meal Prep: Make a double batch to enjoy leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen before cooking; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Pairing: Serve with a light salad or whole grains like quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.

Serving This Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus

When it comes to serving Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas:

Side Dishes: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or roasted potatoes to complement the flavors.
Occasions: This meal works perfectly for weeknight dinners and casual get-togethers, offering a delightful experience without being overly fancy.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge. Just ensure they are sealed well to keep them fresh.
Seasonal Pairings: Lean into seasonal ingredients; in spring, serving with a light citrus salad can be refreshing.
Serving Style: Present everything right on the sheet pan for a rustic, family-style meal that invites everyone to dig in.

FAQ

The cooking time for Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus is about 30 to 34 minutes. The chicken should be baked for approximately 18 to 20 minutes, then flipped and returned to the oven with the asparagus for an additional 10 to 14 minutes. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Absolutely! While asparagus is a fantastic choice, you can easily substitute it with other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Leftovers of Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat in the oven to retain the crispiness of the chicken and asparagus.

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a batch ahead of time and portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just be sure to keep the chicken and asparagus in separate containers to maintain their texture.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Honey Horseradish Chicken Asparagus is a true winner in the world of weeknight dinners. Its simplicity, combined with bold flavors, makes it a standout choice for any busy home cook. I encourage you to give it a try and see how this dish can transform your family mealtime into something special. You won’t regret making this easy and delicious recipe a part of your regular rotation!