why make this recipe
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dining table. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce makes this meal both satisfying and nutritious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience, allowing you to prepare an impressive dinner without much fuss.
Making a meal on a sheet pan makes cooking and cleaning easier. With everything cooking in harmony in one pan, you minimize mess while maximizing taste. Not only is this dish appealing to the eyes, but it’s also customizable, making it perfect for families or gatherings.
equipment needed for Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
To make Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken, you need some essential kitchen gear to streamline your cooking process. First and foremost, a reliable oven is crucial, as you will be baking the chicken and vegetables to perfection. A rimmed baking sheet, preferably around 12” x 17” or 13” x 18”, is vital for providing a spacious area for all your ingredients.
You should also have measuring cups and spoons on hand to ensure accurate ingredient portions. A small bowl and a whisk work well for combining the sauce ingredients seamlessly. Additionally, using parchment paper will help with easy cleanup, preventing food from sticking to the pan. To complete your setup, keep a nice sharp knife and cutting board ready for chopping your vegetables.
What You Need to Make Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
- 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey OR light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger OR ginger paste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 bell peppers (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (for basting)
- Sesame seeds & sliced green onions (for garnish)
How to Cook Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Step by Step
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is essential to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly while staying juicy. While the oven heats up, take a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps in easy cleanup later.
Next, grab a small bowl to prepare the teriyaki sauce mixture. In this bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey or light brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until everything is combined well. This mixture is the heart of the dish, providing flavor to both the chicken and the vegetables.
After preparing the sauce, take your chicken breasts and place them directly onto the lined baking sheet. Spread out the chicken so that it does not overlap. Around the chicken, arrange the broccoli florets, bell pepper chunks, and snow peas. This colorful medley not only adds visual appeal but also offers a variety of textures and nutrients.
Once the chicken and vegetables are laid out, it’s time to pour your teriyaki sauce mixture over the entire arrangement. Use your clean hands to ensure that the vegetables and chicken are well-coated with the sauce. This step is key for flavor; you want every bite to be infused with that tasty teriyaki goodness. If you prefer, you can also try to pour it evenly over everything, but getting hands-on with it will yield excellent results.
Now that everything is well coated, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F by the end of the cooking time. For extra flavor, during the last five minutes of baking, baste the chicken with some reserved teriyaki sauce. This will create a beautiful glaze that enhances the overall taste.
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven, and take a moment to admire this beautiful dish. Before serving, garnish your entree with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. The garnish adds not just visual appeal but also an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
how to make Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
Making Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken is straightforward and allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Start by gathering your ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process.
Once everything is in front of you, move swiftly. Begin with preparing the teriyaki sauce mixture in a bowl. While that’s mixing, line your baking sheet with parchment paper and get your oven preheated. Place the chicken breasts on the sheet, scattering the colorful vegetables around them.
With the chicken and veggies set up, lather everything nicely with your homemade teriyaki sauce. Cook until the chicken is perfectly done, and don’t forget to baste for that extra zing. Finally, plate it up with your garnishes, and you have a beautiful meal ready to impress.
how to serve Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
To serve Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken, you can simply slide it straight from the oven to the table. Since everything is already beautifully arranged, it makes for a visually appealing presentation. Use a large spatula or tongs to portion out the chicken and vegetables onto each plate.
Consider offering extra garnishes like sesame seeds and sliced green onions at the table to allow your guests to customize their servings further. The extra crunch and flavor can elevate your dish even more.
For a touch of sophistication, you could serve the dish on a large, colorful platter that showcases both the chicken and the vibrant veggies, highlighting the meal’s beauty and freshness.
what to serve with Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
When it comes to side dishes, you have several excellent options to complement Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is a classic choice, providing a fluffy base that balances the bold flavors of the teriyaki.
For a healthier option, consider serving it with quinoa or cauliflower rice, both of which offer nutritious benefits. A simple Asian-inspired salad with cucumbers, carrots, and a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the main dish.
If you prefer something heartier, try pairing the chicken with a noodle stir-fry. The addition of some sautéed mushrooms and snap peas would marry nicely with the teriyaki flavor profile. You can also serve it alongside crispy spring rolls or vegetable dumplings for a fun and engaging dining experience.
how to store Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
Storing Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken is easy and convenient. Once all leftovers cool down to room temperature, transfer them into an airtight container. Make sure to separate the chicken from the vegetables to maintain their individual textures and flavors, though they can be stored together if preferred.
In the refrigerator, the dish should last about three to four days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, it can last for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. To heat, place the chicken and vegetables back on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven, or heat them in a skillet over medium heat until everything is heated through.
tips to make Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
To enhance your cooking experience, here are some handy tips for making perfect Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken. First, make sure to check the chicken’s doneness with a meat thermometer. This ensures you reach the ideal internal temperature without risking dryness.
Another valuable tip is to chop your vegetables uniformly. This way, they will cook evenly and become tender at the same time as the chicken. It also adds a beautiful visual appeal to the dish.
It’s also worth experimenting with your choice of vegetables. While broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas work wonderfully, you can incorporate other favorites like carrots, asparagus, or even zucchini.
If you love a kick of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Lastly, make your teriyaki sauce from scratch for a fresher taste. However, store-bought sauce works just fine if you’re looking for convenience.
variation
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken provides a wonderful canvas for delicious variations. For instance, you can switch out the protein by using boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts if you prefer darker meat. They tend to have a richer flavor and can be more forgiving when it comes to cooking times.
Vegetarians can easily modify this recipe by substituting the chicken with firm tofu. Just ensure you press the tofu to remove excess moisture before tossing it with the sauce.
Additionally, you can explore different types of sauces. If you’re in the mood for something tangier, a citrus-infused sauce can elevate the dish. In contrast, a honey-soy glaze can provide a sweeter twist that your kids may love.
best time to make Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for any day of the week but shines particularly on busy weeknights. It provides a wholesome meal that can be prepared in less than an hour, allowing you ample time to relax with your family after a long day.
The dish is also ideal for meal prepping since all ingredients cook together harmoniously, making it an efficient choice for those with tight schedules.
If you’re hosting a gathering or casual dinner party, this recipe will surely impress your guests while making your workload easier. Simply prepare it beforehand, pop it in the oven, and enjoy quality time without stressing about dinner.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken, some common pitfalls can affect the final result. One mistake to watch for is overcrowding the baking sheet. If the chicken and vegetables are packed too tightly, they will steam instead of roast, preventing the delicious caramelization you want.
Another mistake is neglecting to baste the chicken. This crucial step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful glaze to the chicken. Make sure to do this just before the cooking time ends to ensure a lip-smacking finish.
Finally, be cautious not to overcook the chicken. Keeping an eye on the internal temperature will help you avoid dryness. Remember, it’s better to slightly undercook and let it rest than to push the cooking time too far.
nutritional notes
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken is not just delightful in taste but also offers a variety of nutritional benefits. The chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, beneficial for muscle growth and repair.
The diverse medley of vegetables, including broccoli and bell peppers, provides vitamins and minerals essential for overall health. Broccoli, for instance, is rich in vitamin C and fiber, while bell peppers add a healthy dose of antioxidants.
The teriyaki sauce adds flavor without overwhelming the dish with calories. By controlling the amount of sugar in the sauce, you can ensure that your meal remains balanced and nutritious.
FAQs
Can I prepare Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor. Just store the marinated chicken and veggies in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce on hand, you can create a simple mixture using soy sauce, honey, and a touch of rice vinegar. Combining hoisin sauce with low-sodium soy sauce can also yield a similar sweet and savory flavor.
How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption.
conclusion
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that your family will love. Its versatility allows for various adaptations, making it suitable for everyone at your table.
With minimal cleanup and a wholesome meal cooked all at once, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any day when you crave something delicious. This recipe is sure to become a go-to dish, creating lasting memories around the dinner table. Embrace the vibrant flavors and enjoy every bite!
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until combined.
- Place the chicken breasts onto the lined baking sheet without overlapping.
- Arrange the broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas around the chicken.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Baste the chicken with reserved teriyaki sauce during the last five minutes of baking.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
