Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that's as delicious as it is effortless? Introducing the Pecan Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner—a mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and crunchy pecans, all roasted to perfection on a single pan! This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies cleanup, making it the ultimate solution for busy evenings. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be amazed at how easily you can impress your family or guests with this delightful American cuisine. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create a meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Chop the pecans into medium-sized pieces. Slice the carrots into diagonal rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Separate the broccoli into uniform florets.
- Arrange the chicken thighs in the center of the sheet pan, skin-side up if using skin-on chicken. Scatter the broccoli florets and carrot slices around the chicken.
- Drizzle honey over the chicken thighs, using a brush to spread it evenly for a golden, caramelized finish.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the chicken and vegetables, distributing them evenly to ensure each bite has nutty crunch.
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, directly from the sheet pan, ensuring each serving includes a chicken thigh, roasted vegetables, and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For added flavor and moisture, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. If you prefer a healthier option, skinless thighs work just as well—just adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy nights, you can prep the vegetables and chicken the night before. Just store them in the fridge and toss them on the sheet pan when you're ready to cook.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the broccoli and carrots for your favorite seasonal vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts would also make excellent additions!
- Watch the Honey: Drizzling honey over the chicken not only adds sweetness but also helps create a beautiful caramelized finish. Just be careful not to overdo it; a little goes a long way!
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating. This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Let It Rest: After removing the pan from the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken.
- Serve Family Style: For a fun and casual dining experience, serve the dish straight from the sheet pan. This not only looks appealing but also encourages everyone to dig in together!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 160mg
