Name: Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 large head broccoli (chopped (about 2 cups)); 2 medium red bell peppers (cut into chunks); 1 cup snap peas; salt and pepper (to taste); 1/4 cup lower-sodium soy sauce; 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic; 1 tsp fresh ginger

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that blends convenience and flavor effortlessly, and that’s exactly what Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies delivers. I remember the first time I tried a sheet pan meal; it was a revelation! I was juggling work, family, and a million other responsibilities, and I needed a quick dinner solution that didn’t skimp on taste. Enter this simple yet scrumptious recipe that has become a staple in our household. Not only does it come together in one pan, but it also allows the vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables to shine alongside tender bits of chicken.

On busy weeknights, I love how I can toss everything onto a single sheet pan, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. The aroma of soy sauce and sweet chili sauce wafts through the kitchen, making everyone eagerly anticipate dinner. What I adore most is how the chicken turns out juicy and flavorful while the veggies become perfectly tender and slightly caramelized. There’s something about the combination of ingredients that just works: the crunch of the bell peppers, the earthy taste of broccoli, and the sweetness of honey creates a symphony of flavors that feels comforting and satisfying.

And let’s not forget about the gorgeous presentation! Once it’s all done, you’ll have a visually stunning dish that’s perfect for family dinners or even hosting friends. I often find myself drizzling a bit of extra sauce before serving, adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top to elevate the dish. If you’re looking for an easy, vibrant, and healthy meal, I encourage you to try this Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies recipe tonight!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
370 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

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

Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies

It’s a Time-Saver

One of the best things about this Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies is the convenience. With everything cooking together on a single pan, there’s minimal clean-up involved. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weekdays when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Flavorful and Nutritious

This dish is not just quick; it’s also loaded with nutrients! The combination of chicken and vibrant vegetables ensures you’re getting a balanced meal. The use of fresh ingredients enhances the flavors, making every bite a treat for your taste buds while nourishing your body.

Kid-Friendly

Kids often are picky eaters, but this recipe is fantastic for getting them to enjoy their veggies! The sweetness from honey and sweet chili sauce makes the chicken appealing, while the colorful assortment of veggies encourages them to try something new. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they devour their plates!

Customizable

While I love the classic approach, you can easily customize this dish. Swap out the vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or what your family enjoys most. You can even switch the sauce if you want to experiment with different flavors, such as teriyaki or a spicy kick with sriracha.

Great for Meal Prep

This Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies is a fantastic option for meal prepping! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When meal time comes around, all you have to do is pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious and healthy dinner ready in no time!

Essential Ingredients for Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies

The ingredients for this dish are simple yet effective. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The star of the show, the chicken, pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, while the sweet and savory sauce ties everything together. These ingredients work in concert to not only please your palate but also provide a nutritious meal!

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The main protein source, tender and juicy when cooked properly.
1 large head of broccoli, chopped (about 2 cups): Gives a delightful crunch and is packed with vitamins.
2 medium red bell peppers, cut into chunks: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
1 cup snap peas: These sweet treats bring a pop of freshness and texture.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the dish.
1/4 cup lower-sodium soy sauce: Provides savory depth and umami flavor.
1 tbsp sweet chili sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice.
2 tbsp honey: Balances the flavors with natural sweetness.
2 cloves garlic: Imparts aromatic flavors that elevate the dish.
1 tsp fresh ginger: Adds warmth and a zesty kick.

Instructions for Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies

Cooking Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies is a breeze. Once you gather all your ingredients, you’ll find that preparing this dish requires minimal effort and can be done in just a few straightforward steps. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the vegetables roast beautifully, enhancing their flavors.
Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Once boiling, lower the heat and allow the sauce to simmer, whisking occasionally. You want it to thicken up and become bubbly, developing a rich flavor.
When the sauce is ready, remove it from heat and set aside. This will be drizzled over the chicken and vegetables, infusing them with flavor.
Prepare the baking sheet: Spray a large baking sheet with cooking oil to prevent sticking. This makes clean-up easier and ensures everything roasts nicely.
Spread the pieces of chicken and chopped vegetables on the baking sheet, making sure they are in a single layer. This allows for even cooking.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; this is where you add depth to the flavors!
Drizzle half of the sauce over the chicken and veggies. Use a spatula or your hands to toss everything together until well-coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Halfway through, take the pan out and give everything a good toss to ensure even cooking.
Once the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, remove the pan from the oven. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish.
Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy this delicious Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies with your family!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook chicken until golden: Look for the chicken to be golden brown on the outside before removing it from the oven.
Vegetable doneness: The vegetables should be tender but still have a slight crunch, indicating they are perfectly roasted.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will elevate the taste of the sauce significantly.
Let the sauce cool slightly: This can help it thicken, making it easier to coat the chicken and vegetables.

Change It Up

Once you’ve mastered the Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies, there are plenty of ways to change things up and make it your own. Here are some tips to help you customize this dish:

Swap proteins: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein source.
Veggie variations: Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables. Zucchini, asparagus, or carrots work wonderfully!
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to elevate the heat level.
Experiment with sauces: Try teriyaki sauce or a homemade peanut sauce for a different flavor profile.
Serve differently: Instead of rice, serve over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.

What to Serve Alongside Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies

Pairing the Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies with the right side dishes can really enhance your meal. Here are some ideas:

Brown rice: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce and complements the dish perfectly.
Quinoa: Offers a nutritious alternative to rice, adding a nutty flavor and extra protein.
Asian-inspired salad: A light cucumber salad or a simple mixed greens salad with sesame dressing can brighten up your plate.
Steamed rice: A classic and comforting choice that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
Spring rolls: For a fun appetizer, serve with fresh spring rolls filled with veggies and a light dipping sauce.
Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a palate cleanser and add a sweet note to your meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Each protein brings a different flavor and texture, making it versatile. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if using seafood, which typically cooks quicker than chicken.

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Just remember that veggies may lose some of their crispness when reheated, but they will still taste delicious!

Yes, meal prep is a great way to make this dish even more convenient. You can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken in the sauce the night before. When you’re ready to cook, just spread everything on the baking sheet and bake it for a quick dinner. Having it prepped will save you tons of time on a busy weeknight!

This Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies pairs beautifully with brown rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed rice for a lighter meal. For added flavor, try drizzling some extra sauce over your sides to tie all the flavors together.

Conclusion

The Sheet Pan Sesame Chicken and Veggies is a true gem in the world of quick and easy meals. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about bringing together flavors that create a delightful dining experience. I encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends while making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this one-pan wonder, and happy cooking!