Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? Try my Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans Sheet Pan Delight! This easy dish features juicy chicken thighs and fresh green beans, all coated in a sweet and savory honey-garlic marinade. In just one pan, you can create a delicious meal with minimal cleanup. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and easy steps that make this a perfect weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
Marinade Ingredients
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Garnishing
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
When making honey garlic chicken, the main ingredients are key. The chicken thighs give a juicy base. Fresh green beans add color and crunch.
Next, we need the marinade. Honey brings sweetness. Soy sauce adds saltiness. Garlic gives a strong flavor. Olive oil helps everything stick. Ground ginger adds warmth, while black pepper gives a little spice. You can adjust the salt to your taste.
Finally, sesame seeds make a lovely garnish. They add a nutty flavor and nice texture. This simple combination makes the dish shine. Enjoy the balance of flavors and textures in every bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for great cooking.
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It helps with easy cleanup later.
To make the marinade, grab a bowl. Add 1/4 cup of honey, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk these together well. This mix gives your chicken amazing flavor.
Marinating the Chicken
Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of your marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can let it sit for up to 2 hours.
For optimal marination, try to use a shallow dish. This allows the marinade to coat the chicken evenly. If you are short on time, 30 minutes will still add good flavor.
Assembling and Baking
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out well.
Now, take the remaining marinade. Toss the 2 cups of green beans in the marinade until they are well coated. Spread the green beans around the chicken on the sheet pan.
Bake everything in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The green beans should be tender but still crisp.
Once it’s done, remove the pan from the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds over the chicken and green beans. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). This keeps it juicy and safe to eat. Check the thickest part of the thigh.
For perfect green beans, cook them until they are tender but still crisp. Toss them in the marinade just before baking. This gives them full flavor without overcooking.
Presentation Tips
For a rustic look, serve the meal directly from the sheet pan. It looks casual yet inviting. You can also plate the chicken and green beans for a more polished appearance.
To garnish, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the dish. This adds color and a fresh taste that enhances the meal.
Cooking Equipment
Use a large, rimmed baking sheet for even cooking. A non-stick or parchment-lined sheet helps with cleanup too.
For preparation, a whisk is great for mixing the marinade. A resealable bag or shallow dish works well for marinating the chicken. Both make it easy to coat the meat fully.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch out chicken thighs for chicken breasts or drumsticks. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster. Drumsticks have more flavor and stay juicy. Both options work well with the marinade.
If you don’t have green beans, try broccoli or snap peas. Broccoli adds a nice crunch, while snap peas bring a sweet snap. Both can cook in the same time as green beans.
Flavor Enhancements
Want a little heat? Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne. These spices give a nice kick without overpowering the dish. You can also use fresh ginger instead of ground for a bolder taste.
For more variety, add colorful bell peppers or carrots. These veggies add sweetness and texture. Just chop them into similar sizes as the other veggies for even cooking.
Cooking Method Alternatives
If you prefer grilling, this recipe works great on the grill too. Just marinate the chicken and veggies as usual. Then, grill them for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. This method gives a smoky flavor.
You can also use an Instant Pot or slow cooker. For the Instant Pot, add chicken, marinade, and veggies. Cook on high for 10 minutes with a quick release. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 4-5 hours. Both methods make the chicken tender and full of flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store your Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Place the dish in the fridge within two hours of cooking. If stored properly, it lasts up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat in the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and green beans on a baking sheet. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm.
For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe plate. Cover the food with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until fully hot. This keeps it moist and tasty.
Freezing Options
You can freeze leftovers for later use. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. After thawing, you can reheat it using the oven or microwave. This way, you enjoy a quick meal any time!
FAQs
What is the cook time for Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans?
The cook time for Honey Garlic Chicken and Green Beans is about 25 to 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The green beans should be tender yet crisp.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Bone-in chicken will need more time to cook, usually about 35 to 40 minutes. The flavor will be richer due to the bones. Always check that the chicken is fully cooked.
What vegetables can I add to this sheet pan meal?
You can add many vegetables to this dish. Carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times. For quicker-cooking veggies, you might add them halfway through baking. This keeps everything fresh and tasty.
This recipe brings together simple ingredients for a delicious meal. You learned how to marinate chicken thighs and perfect green beans. We covered tips for cooking and storing leftovers. Don’t forget that you can switch ingredients or cooking methods to suit your taste. With these ideas, you can enjoy this dish many different ways. Make it your own and savor every bite!
