Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a one-pan meal that delivers both flavor and ease, and this Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli is a perfect example. With succulent chicken bathed in a tangy, spicy sauce and vibrant broccoli, this dish is as eye-catching as it is delicious. The best part? It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option for busy families or anyone looking to whip up something quick yet satisfying.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli deserves a prime spot in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, it’s a flavor explosion with a sweet, spicy, and citrusy profile that tantalizes the taste buds. Second, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to simply toss everything onto a baking sheet and let the oven do the work. Finally, it’s a healthy meal packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced option for any day of the week.

Ingredient List

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup flour or gluten-free flour
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• Green onions + sesame seeds, for serving
• 1 cup fresh orange juice + 2 tablespoons zest
• 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 4 cloves garlic, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 3-4 tablespoons chili paste (gochujang)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or flour

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

• Sheet pan: A large baking sheet to accommodate all the ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the marinade and chicken.
• Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients well.
• Grater: For the garlic and ginger.
• Spatula: Useful for tossing ingredients on the sheet pan.

The Method for Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely roasted flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken with the flour, orange zest, and black pepper. The flour helps create a nice crust while baking, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy on the inside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, and toasted sesame oil. This sauce is the soul of your dish, so make sure to mix it well!

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the sauce to the chicken in the mixing bowl and stir until the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes if you have time; this enhances the flavors even more.

Step 5: Prepare the Broccoli

While your chicken is marinating, wash the broccoli florets and set them aside. They will add a nice crunch and a pop of green to your meal.

Step 6: Assemble on the Sheet Pan

Spread the marinated chicken evenly on a large sheet pan. Scatter the broccoli florets around the chicken. Drizzle everything with extra virgin olive oil to ensure they roast beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender but still vibrant. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 8: Serve

Once done, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Serve your Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch. Enjoy it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal!

Make It Diet-Friendly

This recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences. Here are some suggestions:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
• Vegan: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut down on honey or use a sugar alternative.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best chefs make mistakes sometimes! Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• Chicken is Dry: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C).
• Broccoli is Soggy: If broccoli is overcooked, try reducing the cooking time or adding it halfway through the chicken’s baking time.
• Too Saucy: If you prefer less sauce, reduce the amount of orange juice and soy sauce or increase the cornstarch to thicken it up.
• Not Spicy Enough: Adjust the chili paste according to your heat preference, or add some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This dish is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool completely before freezing.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! You can use frozen broccoli; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as it may release extra moisture.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even noodles. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweetness from the honey and orange juice, combined with the spice from the chili paste, usually appeals to kids. Adjust the spice level to suit their taste!

Healthy-ish Favorites

If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy these healthy-ish favorites:

• Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
• Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon with Asparagus
• Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
• Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Vegetables

Bring It Home

The beauty of Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. It’s a dish that can easily become a family favorite, and with the flexibility to adapt it to various dietary needs, it’s perfect for everyone at the table. Next time you’re in need of a quick and satisfying dinner, remember this recipe—it’s sure to impress!

With just a little prep and a few simple ingredients, you can create a vibrant, delicious meal that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a plate of this delightful Sheet Pan Chili Ginger Orange Chicken and Broccoli. Your taste buds will thank you!