Are you craving a quick and tasty dinner that everyone will love? This Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with broccoli is your answer! It’s simple, packed with flavor, and ready in no time. I’m here to guide you through every step, ensuring your meal is a hit. From fresh ingredients to easy instructions, you’ll learn how to create a delicious dish that dazzles at the dinner table. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
To make a delicious Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Broccoli, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Green onions, sliced for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a sweet and savory dish. The chicken thighs stay moist and tender, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch. The red bell pepper brings a pop of color and flavor. Each element works in harmony to create a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup.
Preparing the Teriyaki Sauce
– In a medium bowl, whisk together these ingredients:
– ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. This sauce adds flavor to the chicken.
Seasoning and Arranging Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, toss 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Add half of the teriyaki sauce to the chicken.
– Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
– Spread the chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
– Add 2 cups of broccoli florets and 1 sliced red bell pepper around the chicken.
Baking and Broiling
– Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
– Drizzle the reserved teriyaki sauce over the chicken and veggies.
– Switch the oven to broil.
– Broil for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Crispy Chicken
To get crispy chicken, you need an even coat. Toss the chicken pieces well in olive oil, salt, and pepper. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven. When you bake them, spread them out on the sheet pan. This way, they won’t steam.
After baking, broil the dish for a perfect finish. This step caramelizes the sauce and adds a nice crunch. Keep a close eye on it, so it doesn’t burn. Just two to three minutes under the broiler can make a big difference.
Cooking Broccoli to Perfection
Broccoli needs just the right timing to stay tender yet crisp. Add the broccoli to the pan for the last ten minutes of baking. This ensures it cooks but keeps its bright color and crunch. If you add it too early, it may turn mushy.
Other Helpful Tips
Cleaning up can be a breeze with some simple tricks. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. After the meal, just toss the paper away.
Also, soak any sticky pans in warm water for a few minutes. This will help loosen any residue. A little prep goes a long way in making cooking fun and easy!
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can switch the chicken thighs for chicken breast. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks quicker. Just ensure you cut it into small pieces. If you want a plant-based option, try tofu. Use firm tofu and press it to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and toss it with the teriyaki sauce. Both options work great in this dish.
Different Vegetables
Feel free to mix in other veggies. Carrots add sweetness, and snap peas bring crunch. You can also use zucchini or asparagus for a fresh twist. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes as the broccoli. This way, they cook evenly and look nice on your plate.
Flavor Adjustments
Want to add some heat? Try sriracha! Just mix a bit into the teriyaki sauce. You can also use chili paste or garlic chili sauce for a kick. If you like something sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup. These small changes can really enhance the dish and suit your taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Broccoli fresh, store it in the fridge. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavor and moisture. They will last about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it. This avoids extra moisture build-up inside the container.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can use a microwave or an oven. For the microwave, place the chicken and broccoli on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it warms evenly. If using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in a baking pan and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until hot.
Freezing Guidance
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remember to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It saves time and still tastes good. Just add it to the pan without thawing. The cooking time might be a bit longer, so check for doneness.
How can I make this gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has a similar taste but is safe for gluten-free diets. You can also check labels on honey or maple syrup.
What can I serve with Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken?
You can serve this dish with rice or quinoa. Both options soak up the tasty sauce well. You might also add a simple salad for extra crunch.
This blog post provided a simple way to make sheet pan teriyaki chicken. We discussed all the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for crispy chicken. You learned how to adjust flavors and store leftovers. Remember, this dish is easy to modify with different proteins and vegetables. My final thought: enjoy the process and have fun experimenting with your own twists. Happy cooking!
