One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies: A Sweet and Savory Weeknight Winner 🍗🥕
If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and comes together in under an hour, this One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is your new go-to! Tender chicken breasts (or thighs) are seared to golden perfection, then baked alongside hearty veggies in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—everything cooks in one pan, meaning less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying a wholesome, delicious dinner with your loved ones.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy soy sauce, and aromatic garlic, all while infusing the chicken and veggies with irresistible flavor. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s versatile enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to serve at a casual dinner party. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this one-pan wonder will make you feel like a culinary star. Let’s get cooking and fill your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of honey garlic goodness!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, about 1.5 pounds), for a lean and tender protein
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for searing and adding richness
- Salt and pepper, to taste, for seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), for an herbaceous touch
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional), for a smoky warmth and golden color
- 1 cup baby carrots (or 2 medium carrots, sliced), for a sweet crunch
- 1 cup broccoli florets, for a vibrant, nutrient-packed addition
- 1 large potato (or sweet potato), diced into ½-inch cubes, for hearty texture
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter, for a silky, rich base
- ÂĽ cup honey, for natural sweetness and a sticky glaze
- ÂĽ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free), for savory umami
- 3 cloves garlic, minced, for bold, aromatic flavor
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), for a tangy brightness
For Garnish (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for a fresh, colorful finish
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet (cast-iron works great)
- Tongs for handling chicken
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels for drying chicken
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken and Veggies
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika (if using), rubbing the spices in for even flavor. Dice the potato into small ½-inch cubes for quicker cooking, and prepare the baby carrots and broccoli florets, keeping them roughly the same size for even roasting. - Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (or cast-iron pan) over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate—no need to cook through yet, as it will finish in the oven. - Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned—burnt garlic can turn bitter. Add the honey, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and apple cider vinegar, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly into a glossy glaze. The aroma of honey and garlic will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal. - Add the Veggies
Add the diced potatoes, baby carrots, and broccoli florets to the skillet with the honey garlic sauce. Toss the veggies gently to coat them evenly, ensuring they’re spread out in a single layer around the pan. This step infuses the vegetables with the sweet-savory sauce, making every bite irresistible. If the skillet seems crowded, don’t worry—they’ll shrink slightly as they cook. - Bake the Dish
Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet among the veggies, spooning a bit of the honey garlic sauce over the top of each piece for extra flavor. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the veggies are tender. Test the potatoes with a fork to ensure they’re cooked through. The sauce will caramelize slightly, creating a sticky glaze that clings to the chicken and veggies. - Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken and veggies straight from the pan, spooning extra sauce over each portion for maximum flavor. This one-pan meal is best enjoyed warm, with all the components mingling together in perfect harmony.
Prep and Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 generous portions
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is a lifesaver for busy days. The one-pan method means minimal cleanup, while the honey garlic sauce delivers a restaurant-quality flavor that’s both sweet and savory. It’s a balanced meal with protein, fiber-rich veggies, and complex carbs, making it as nutritious as it is delicious. Plus, it’s highly customizable—swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to your taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner every time.
Tips for Success
- Dry the Chicken: Patting the chicken dry ensures a better sear and prevents steaming in the pan.
- Even Veggie Cuts: Dice potatoes and carrots into uniform sizes so they cook evenly alongside the broccoli.
- Don’t Overcook: Check the chicken’s temperature early to avoid drying it out—165°F (74°C) is perfect.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce seems too thin, simmer it for an extra minute on the stovetop after baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and double-check your spices for gluten-free certification.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery kick.
- Veggie Swap: Substitute broccoli with green beans, zucchini, or cauliflower florets for variety.
- Citrus Boost: Use lemon juice instead of apple cider vinegar, and add a teaspoon of lemon zest for brightness.
- Herb Infusion: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different herbaceous flavor.
- Sweet Potato Option: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter, nutrient-dense alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This one-pan dish is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- With Grains: Serve over fluffy quinoa or jasmine rice to soak up the extra sauce.
- Bread Side: Pair with crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting touch.
- Fresh Salad: Add a side of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for extra freshness.
- Family Feast: Include alongside a fruit salad or roasted asparagus for a larger spread.
- Weeknight Drink: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors will deepen as they sit.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.
Make It Your Own
This One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies is a canvas for creativity! Adjust the sauce’s sweetness, swap in seasonal veggies, or experiment with different herbs to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Share your favorite twists in the comments on our website—we’d love to hear how you personalize this recipe!
