Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

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If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that comes together effortlessly, this Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is your new go-to. Juicy chicken, perfectly roasted broccoli, and that sensational honey buffalo sauce create a harmony of spicy, sweet, and savory that’s simply irresistible. Plus, everything cooks on one pan, making dinner prep and cleanup a breeze—true weeknight magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From tender chicken chunks to crisp broccoli florets, and a lip-smacking sauce that’s both spicy and sweet, every element shines on its own and even better together.

• Chicken breasts (1 ½ pounds): The star protein, cut into bite-sized chunks for even roasting and maximum sauce absorption.
• Broccoli head (1, cut into florets): Adds a fresh, green crunch and balances the heat with earthy flavor.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Helps crisp the chicken and broccoli perfectly without drying them out.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Hot sauce (½ cup): The fiery backbone of the buffalo sauce that gives the dish its signature kick.
• Honey (¼ cup): Adds a smooth sweetness that tempers the heat, creating that perfect sweet-heat vibe.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Offers aromatic depth and a subtle pungency that brightens the sauce.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Gives a slight tang that balances sweetness and heat flawlessly.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Imparts a warm, smoky undertone enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
• Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who want an extra punch of heat; totally optional but highly recommended.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a rich, velvety texture in the buffalo sauce, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to finish the dish.
• Sliced green onions (for garnish): Provides a mild oniony crunch that complements the tender chicken and broccoli.

How to Make Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This little step ensures even roasting and a stress-free cleanup, setting you up for success from the very beginning.

Step 2: Season and Arrange the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss chicken chunks with one tablespoon of olive oil, plus a good pinch of salt and pepper. Spreading the chicken on one half of the baking sheet in a single layer helps it cook evenly and develop a beautiful roasted exterior.

Step 3: Prep the Broccoli

Next, drizzle the remaining olive oil over the broccoli florets and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Arrange them evenly on the other half of the baking sheet, making sure they’re spread out for perfect roasting without steaming.

Step 4: Initial Roasting

Pop the baking sheet into the oven and roast the chicken and broccoli for about 15 minutes. This first roast starts to cook the chicken through and tenderizes the broccoli, giving it just enough time to begin caramelizing.

Step 5: Whip Up the Honey Buffalo Sauce

While waiting, combine hot sauce, honey, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if you like it spicy, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is silky smooth. The aroma will already have your kitchen smelling incredible.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken with Sauce

Pull the baking sheet out after 15 minutes, drizzle half of the honey buffalo sauce over the chicken, and toss well to coat every juicy piece. Keep the rest of the sauce handy to serve on the side—we will get back to it soon!

Step 7: Finish Roasting

Return the sheet pan to the oven and roast for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through thoroughly while the broccoli chars slightly and develops that irresistible caramelized flavor.

Step 8: Garnish and Rest

Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest a few minutes. This pause lets the juices settle and flavors meld, making each bite perfectly juicy. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions on top for freshness and a lovely pop of color.

Step 9: Serve with Extra Sauce

Finally, serve the roasted chicken and broccoli with the remaining honey buffalo sauce on the side. Whether drizzled over the top or used as a dip, this sauce is where the magic really shines in this Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe.

How to Serve Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and sliced green onions is not just for looks—they add a burst of freshness and subtle crunch that contrast beautifully with the tender, saucy chicken and roasted broccoli. Plus, they brighten up the dish visually, making it as pretty as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a simple quinoa salad. These sides soak up the honey buffalo sauce and round out the meal perfectly, turning it into a satisfying feast for you and your loved ones.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken and broccoli over a bed of crunchy lettuce leaves for an informal buffalo chicken salad. Alternatively, tuck the saucy protein and veggies inside warm tortillas for quick buffalo chicken wraps. Either way, this Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe lends itself to playful, crowd-pleasing presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover honey buffalo chicken and broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to save any extra sauce separately to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to freeze sauce separately or add fresh sauce after reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth helps keep the chicken moist. Reheat the sauce separately and mix it in just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can vary in thickness. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through.

How spicy is this Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe?

The heat level can be adjusted to your liking by controlling the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper. If you prefer mild, reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely. For a fiery kick, add more hot sauce or an extra pinch of cayenne.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Fresh broccoli is best for roasting because it crisps up nicely, but if you only have frozen, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind it won’t get quite as crispy but will still taste delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check your hot sauce label to confirm.

Can I make the honey buffalo sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it gently before tossing with the chicken for that fresh-from-the-pan flavor every time.

Final Thoughts

This Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli Recipe is one of those rare dishes that’s fast, flavorful, and wildly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a fuss-free weekday dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes with its bold sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly roasted veggies. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight hero.

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