BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken recipe
BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken is the perfect embodiment of comfort food, merging the delightful sweetness and smoky tang of BBQ sauce with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is an effortless solution for busy weeknights, providing a hearty meal that satisfies the entire family.
What makes this dish stand out is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a mouthwatering dinner that features vibrant vegetables alongside the star of the show, succulent chicken thighs. The sheet-pan method not only ensures an easy cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Whether you’re a BBQ lover or new to the flavor, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of sweet potatoes and broccoli with savory chicken creates a wholesome meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, making it a true winner for any occasion.
BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken: Ingredients
In this BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken recipe, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on, these juicy thighs serve as the hearty foundation, soaking up the BBQ sauce’s rich flavors while providing a satisfying bite.
- Sweet Potatoes: With their natural sweetness, these chunky pieces add a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, caramelizing beautifully in the oven for a comforting side.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets bring vibrant color and a nutritious crunch, balancing the dish with their slight bitterness and adding a refreshing element.
- BBQ Sauce: This iconic sauce infuses the chicken with a sweet and smoky glaze, elevating the dish and tying all the flavors together.
- Dijon Mustard and Honey: This dynamic duo creates a tangy-sweet glaze, enhancing the chicken’s richness while complementing the BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Each ingredient not only contributes to the dish’s overall taste but also ensures a satisfying and wholesome meal for any occasion.
BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken: A Flavorful Delight
BBQ sauce and chicken go together like peanut butter and jelly: an undeniable classic combo that hits the mark every single time. We love BBQ chicken on pizza, on sliders, in dip, and, of course, on the grill. And no matter the season, BBQ chicken is a clear #winner winner chicken dinner. Here’s how we put together an easy sheet-pan dinner with juicy chicken, loads of sweet-smoky flavor, and plenty of vegetables to complete the meal.
Recipe Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, and spices for at least 30 minutes or even overnight in the refrigerator. This extra time allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors, making each bite even more succulent and tasty.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure that the sweet potatoes and broccoli are cut into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking. This way, everything roasts perfectly together, with the sweet potatoes caramelizing while the broccoli remains tender yet crisp.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on your oven and the size of your chicken thighs, cooking times may vary. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If the chicken skin isn’t crispy enough after the recommended cooking time, broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes for that golden finish.
What to Serve with BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn on the cob pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors. The sweetness of the corn complements the smokiness of the BBQ chicken. Simply brush the corn with a little butter and sprinkle with salt for a delightful side.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the juicy chicken. The acidity from the dressing balances the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Baked Beans: Rich and hearty baked beans are a classic side dish that complements BBQ chicken perfectly. Their sweetness and savory flavor enhance the overall meal experience, creating a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.
FAQ
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just be mindful that the cooking time may be reduced, so check for doneness sooner. - What if I don’t have sweet potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes, or even butternut squash, can be great alternatives. Adjust cooking times as necessary, as different vegetables may cook faster or slower. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients and assemble everything on the sheet pan a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
Enjoy the delicious flavors and convenience of BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken, and make it a go-to recipe for your weeknight dinners!
BBQ Sheet-Pan Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 medium sweet potatoes scrubbed and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 head of broccoli cut into florets
- 2 Tbsp. plus 1 1/2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce divided
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp. honey
- 1 tsp. kosher salt plus additional for seasoning
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper plus more to taste
- 2 tsp. chili powder
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Begin by placing a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, combine the sweet potato chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with kosher salt and black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Step 2
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the chili powder, garlic powder, 3 tablespoons of BBQ sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the mixture, tossing well to ensure they are thoroughly coated. Position the chicken, skin side down, on the baking sheet alongside the seasoned potatoes. Clean out the mixing bowl and set it aside for later use.
- Step 3
- Roast the chicken and sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken skin and potatoes begin to brown.
- Step 4
- While the chicken and potatoes are roasting, return to the mixing bowl and add the broccoli florets. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the broccoli, seasoning with additional salt and pepper. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and the remaining 5 tablespoons of BBQ sauce.
- Step 5
- Once the initial roasting is complete, brush half of the mustard mixture over the chicken. Carefully turn the chicken thighs and apply the remaining mustard glaze. Add the seasoned broccoli to the baking sheet, stirring it in with the sweet potatoes for an even distribution.
- Step 6
- Continue baking the chicken and vegetables for an additional 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. For serving, consider adding lime wedges on the side for a fresh touch, if desired.