Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli is the perfect one-pan dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Juicy, succulent chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection and roasted alongside tender, vibrant broccoli florets. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also brings a colorful presentation to your table, making it an appealing option for weeknight meals or special occasions. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights. The rich, savory flavor of the chicken thighs pairs beautifully with the crisp-tender broccoli, making for a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. The simplicity of cooking everything on one sheet pan means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Perfect for families, this recipe is versatile enough to fit various diets, offering a hearty dose of protein and fiber while remaining gluten-free and low-carb.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate for Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor.
- Use a High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature (425°F) ensures crispy skin on the chicken and perfectly roasted broccoli.
- Uniform Cut: Make sure to cut the broccoli into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Add a Kick: For a spicy twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the chicken before roasting.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the chicken thighs by marinating them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The broccoli can be washed and cut ahead of time, stored in a sealed bag in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss everything together and roast!
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or bell peppers.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder, to change the flavor profile.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: For a quicker option, consider using an air fryer for the chicken thighs or sautéing the broccoli on the stovetop.
How to Serve
Once the chicken thighs and broccoli are cooked, plate them on a large serving dish. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added touch. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea. For side dishes, consider garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa to round out the meal. A light dessert such as fruit sorbet or a lemon tart would be a delightful way to finish.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, either microwave until warmed through or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet or sheet pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
- Meat thermometer (for checking chicken doneness)
- Mixing bowl for marinating
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit any butter or dairy-based marinades. For a nut-free version, ensure that any marinades or sauces used do not contain nuts. You can also make it gluten-free by double-checking the seasoning labels for any hidden gluten.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, add fresh asparagus to the sheet pan for a seasonal touch. In fall, consider including cubed butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Using seasonal vegetables not only enhances flavor but also brings variety to your meals.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, boneless thighs will work but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.
- What if I don’t have broccoli? You can substitute any sturdy vegetable like green beans or cauliflower.
- How long should I cook it? Typically, chicken thighs take about 30-35 minutes at 425°F, but always check for doneness with a thermometer.
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs With Broccoli
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli is the perfect one-pan dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade.
- Arrange the chicken thighs on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
- On the other side, place the broccoli florets and drizzle with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the broccoli is tender and slightly charred.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 198Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 164mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 3gSugar: 2gProtein: 10g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli is a versatile and delicious recipe that brings together flavor, ease, and convenience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and relish the joy of sharing a homemade meal with loved ones.
