There’s something undeniably satisfying about turning a handful of simple ingredients into a vibrant, flavor-packed meal with virtually no mess. Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli is exactly that kind of kitchen magic—juicy chicken bites slathered in a perfect sweet-and-spicy glaze, nestled alongside tender roasted broccoli that edges toward caramelized perfection. The beauty lies in the one-pan approach: you get a crispy, golden exterior on the chicken while the broccoli florets develop those irresistible charred tips, all without juggling multiple dishes. Every bite is a delightful interplay of sticky honey sweetness, vinegary hot sauce heat, and that subtle whisper of smokiness, creating a harmony you’ll want on repeat.
If you’ve ever walked into your kitchen on a busy weeknight, rummaging for a quick dinner fix, this recipe was practically invented for you. It comes together in under 45 minutes total—from chopping to plating—and offers a dazzling calorie-conscious meal clocking in at around 450 calories per serving. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding the whole family, or inviting friends over for a casual dinner, this beginner-friendly recipe hits all the marks. Plus, the leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) store beautifully for a speedy lunch the next day. My own first run of this dish became an instant hit at home, sparking requests for seconds and sealing its place in my regular dinner rotation.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SHEET PAN HONEY BUFFALO CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI
Getting the right ingredients is half the fun of this recipe. Each element plays a distinct role in building layers of taste and texture, making the final dish an absolute crowd-pleaser.
- Chicken Breasts
Lean and versatile, chicken breast chunks provide the perfect vessel for soaking up that sweet-and-spicy sauce. Cut into uniform pieces, they cook evenly and remain juicy inside with a hint of crisp on the outside.
- Broccoli Florets
Bright green and full of nutrients, broccoli becomes tender yet slightly crisp when roasted. Its earthy flavor contrasts beautifully with the punchy buffalo sauce.
- Olive Oil
Used in two portions, olive oil ensures even roasting and helps the chicken and broccoli develop that lovely golden hue. It also adds a hint of fruitiness to the overall profile.
- Salt and Pepper
Fundamental seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of both the chicken and the vegetables without overpowering the sauce.
- Hot Sauce
The fiery backbone of the buffalo sauce, it provides tang and heat that balances the honey’s sweetness.
- Honey
Brings a natural sweetness and glossy sheen to the sauce, mellowing the heat and creating that irresistible sticky glaze.
- Garlic
Fresh minced garlic adds layers of aromatic depth and just the right pungent kick.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Cuts through the richness with a bright acidity, lending a tangy lift to the sauce.
- Smoked Paprika
Infuses a warm, smoky undertone that complements the buffalo sauce and deepens the overall flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper
Optional extra heat for those who like to turn the spice dial up higher and feel that extra tingle on the tongue.
- Unsalted Butter
Melts into the sauce, creating a smoother texture and richer mouthfeel.
- Fresh Parsley
A burst of herbal freshness and color that brightens every bite when sprinkled on top.
- Sliced Green Onions
Provide a mild oniony crunch and pop of green, rounding out the presentation.
HOW TO MAKE SHEET PAN HONEY BUFFALO CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI
Bringing this recipe to life is straightforward and fun—you’ll be amazed at how a few simple steps transform raw ingredients into a dynamic dinner. Follow these detailed instructions to master the perfect balance of tender chicken, caramelized broccoli, and that dreamy honey buffalo sauce.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. In a medium bowl, add the chicken chunks and drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper, then toss until each piece is evenly coated. Spread the chicken in a single layer on one half of the prepared baking sheet.
3. In the same bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Season with additional salt and pepper, then arrange the florets on the other half of the baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for optimal caramelization.
4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to begin browning and the broccoli to soften slightly.
5. While everything is roasting, whisk together the honey buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Combine the hot sauce, honey, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sauce is glossy and well blended, then remove from heat.
6. After the initial 15 minutes, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Drizzle half of your prepared sauce over the chicken, then use a spatula to toss and ensure each piece is coated in that vibrant glaze. Reserve the rest of the sauce for serving.
7. Return the sheet pan to the oven and continue roasting for another 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink in the center) and the broccoli is tender with slightly crisp edges.
8. Once done, remove from the oven and allow everything to rest for a few minutes—this helps the juices redistribute and the sauce set up slightly.
9. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and sliced green onions, then serve the honey buffalo chicken and broccoli alongside the reserved sauce for extra dipping or drizzling.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SHEET PAN HONEY BUFFALO CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI
When it comes to plating this sweet-and-spicy feast, the possibilities are endless. A well-thought-out serving strategy not only elevates the dish but also creates a complete dining experience that feels intentional and satisfying. From complementary grains to cooling accompaniments, pairing suggestions can accentuate each nuance of the honey buffalo sauce and roasted veggies. Consider the texture, temperature, and color contrast on the plate—after all, we eat first with our eyes! Whether you’re aiming for a casual weeknight meal or something a bit more festive for friends, these ideas will help you serve your Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli in an inviting, mouthwatering way.
- Serve over Brown Rice or Quinoa for a hearty base that soaks up every drop of honey buffalo sauce. Fluff the grains with a fork and spoon the chicken and broccoli on top for an easy, one-bowl dinner.
- Pair with a side of Cool Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing. The creamy, tangy notes balance the heat perfectly—offer it in a small ramekin for dipping or drizzling.
- Arrange on a large Family-Style Platter with lemon wedges and extra parsley sprigs along the edges. This communal presentation encourages everyone to grab a little of everything and makes for a festive, sharing table.
- Transform leftovers into Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Simply spoon chilled pieces into crisp lettuce cups, top with sliced green onions, and finish with a drizzle of extra sauce for a crunchy, low-carb lunch.
HOW TO STORE SHEET PAN HONEY BUFFALO CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI
Meal-prep enthusiasts, rejoice! This dish is just as delightful the next day—storing it correctly ensures the chicken remains juicy, the broccoli retains some bite, and the sauce keeps that signature glossy texture. Whether you’re portioning out lunches for the week or tucking dinner away for later, let these storage strategies help preserve peak freshness and flavor. Keep in mind that proper cooling before refrigeration prevents excess moisture buildup, while separating components can maintain ideal textures. With the right techniques, you’ll enjoy this tasty one-pan meal just as much two days later, making it a true kitchen win.
- Airtight Container in the Refrigerator: Let the chicken and broccoli cool completely before transferring to a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping the leftover sauce in a separate small jar.
- Freezer-Safe Bags: For longer storage, place cooled contents in freezer-grade zip-top bags, pressing out excess air before sealing. Freeze for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
- Separate Sauce Storage: Keep any extra honey buffalo sauce in a small, airtight jar. Storing sauce by itself prevents the chicken and broccoli from becoming soggy and preserves the bright flavors.
- Reheating Tips: To revive that fresh-roasted texture, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or use an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for about 5–7 minutes. Microwave on 50% power in short intervals if you’re pressed for time, stirring halfway through.
CONCLUSION
Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli is the kind of recipe that effortlessly bridges the gap between busy evenings and gourmet-inspired flavor. With its sweet, spicy, and smoky sauce coating tender chicken and caramelized broccoli, this dish embodies comfort and excitement all at once. The straightforward, beginner-friendly steps make it accessible to cooks of any skill level, while the one-pan method minimizes cleanup so you can focus on the joy of cooking rather than scrubbing dishes. Whether you’re craving something a little spicy, looking to up your veggie game, or simply want a colorful meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate, this recipe checks every box.
Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder for future dinners or lazy weekend lunches. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section that dives even deeper into tips, tricks, and troubleshooting—perfect for those one-off questions you might have as you cook. I’d love to hear how your honey buffalo adventure turns out: leave a comment if you have questions, share any tweaks you’ve made, or just let me know if this sheet pan wonder became a new family favorite. Your feedback and stories are what make cooking feel like a shared experience, and I’m here to help every step of the way!
Sheet Pan Honey Buffalo Chicken with Broccoli
Description
This one-pan wonder brings together juicy honey buffalo chicken and tender roasted broccoli, creating an irresistible mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that's both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, toss the chicken chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on one half of the prepared baking sheet.
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Toss the broccoli florets with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Spread them on the other half of the baking sheet, ensuring they’re in a single layer.
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Roast the chicken and broccoli in the oven for about 15 minutes.
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While the chicken and broccoli are roasting, prepare the honey buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce, honey, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and unsalted butter. Stir until the butter melts and the ingredients are well combined. Once combined, remove from heat.
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After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle half of the honey buffalo sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat well. Reserve the other half of the sauce for serving.
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Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue to roast for another 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender and slightly caramelized.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and sliced green onions.
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Serve the honey buffalo chicken and broccoli with the reserved sauce on the side, if desired.
Note
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- This recipe can be made using thighs instead of breasts for juicier results.
- Consider serving with brown rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated the next day for a quick meal.
- The sauce can be adjusted to taste; add more honey for sweetness or more hot sauce for heat.
