There is something truly magical about the simplicity and bold flavors of the Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Honey-Mustard Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs roasted alongside vibrant broccoli and sweet-savory honey-mustard sauce, all cooked on a single pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together quickly, proving that delicious meals don’t need to be complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role—simple, fresh, and flavorful. From the tender chicken thighs to the broccoli’s crisp bite and the symphony of spices, every element is essential to creating a harmonious dish full of brightness, warmth, and depth.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 1/4 lbs): The star protein that stays juicy and tender while roasting.
- 1 (12-ounce) bag raw broccoli florets (6-7 cups): Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant green color to the pan.
- ½ medium red onion, sliced (1 cup): Delivers a sweet, aromatic undertone that complements both chicken and broccoli.
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon avocado or olive oil, divided: Helps everything roast beautifully and enhances flavors.
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances savory and spicy notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy depth to the rub.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Adds a hint of smoky heat, perfect for layering flavors.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Contributes a gentle smokiness and vibrant color.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the overall savory profile effortlessly.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Essential for that aromatic kick without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon fine salt: Enhances all flavors and helps with seasoning balance.
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild bite and warmth.
- ⅛ teaspoon chipotle powder: Offers a smoky spiciness that makes this dish irresistible.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy release of food from the pan without sticking.
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (or vegan mayo/plain Greek yogurt): The creamy base for the honey-mustard sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Provides tang and sharpness that cuts through richness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens and balances the tangy mustard perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons coconut aminos (or 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce): Adds umami depth with a touch of savory saltiness.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme: Brightens the sauce with herby notes.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Extra garlic punch in the sauce for flavor layering.
- Pinch of fine salt and black pepper: For final seasoning, bringing the sauce into perfect harmony.
How to Make Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Honey-Mustard Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by placing a large rimmed baking sheet in your oven and preheating it to 450℉. This step is key because the hot pan helps everything cook evenly and develop those gorgeous roasted edges that bring deep flavor. While the oven heats, prep your veggies. Toss broccoli florets and sliced red onion with a tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper to ensure they roast to tender, caramelized perfection.
Step 2: Create the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cumin, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chipotle powder. This rub is the flavor powerhouse that coats your chicken thighs with a balanced mix of sweetness, smokiness, and a gentle kick—trust me, it’s completely addictive.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs with the remaining teaspoon of oil to help the seasoning stick and promote browning. Then generously sprinkle the spice mix all over the thighs, making sure each piece is thoroughly covered. This seasoning will create a beautiful crust once roasted.
Step 4: Arrange on the Hot Sheet Pan
Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven using an oven mitt, then spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the broccoli and onions evenly, leaving space to nestle the chicken thighs directly on the pan to ensure they roast properly. This one-pan approach helps everything meld together during cooking but still allows each ingredient to shine.
Step 5: Roast and Stir
Put the sheet pan back in the oven and roast for 15 minutes. After that, stir the vegetables to encourage even cooking and caramelization. Continue roasting until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165℉ and the broccoli is crisp-tender, which usually takes about 5 more minutes. The result is juicy chicken with beautifully roasted veggies that are slightly charred and bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Whip Up the Honey-Mustard Sauce
While the chicken is roasting, make the sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, coconut aminos, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This tangy, creamy sauce is the perfect finishing touch, providing a velvety coating that pulls all the flavors together in one delicious bite.
Step 7: Serve with the Sauce
Once cooked, plate the chicken thighs and roast vegetables, then drizzle or serve the honey-mustard sauce on the side for dipping. The creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce transforms this sheet pan dinner into something truly memorable. Don’t forget to save any extra sauce for later—it keeps beautifully in the fridge!
How to Serve Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Honey-Mustard Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright pop that pairs wonderfully with the smoky, sweet honey-mustard sauce. For an extra crunch, toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts work beautifully, adding texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dish holds its own beautifully but pairs well with simple sides like fluffy rice, quinoa, or warm crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted sweet potatoes or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, serve everything family-style straight from the sheet pan for easy sharing with friends and family. If you want to dress it up, arrange the chicken thighs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower puree and spoon the honey-mustard sauce over the top, creating an elegant plate that still feels comforting and approachable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken and vegetables keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store the honey-mustard sauce separately to keep it fresh and creamy. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavors.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly if you want to make it ahead. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then reheat gently.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat chicken and vegetables in a 350℉ oven until warmed through to preserve the roasted crispiness. The sauce can be stirred in after reheating or served chilled as a dipping condiment. Microwave reheating works but may soften the veggies slightly.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will add extra flavor and juiciness but will require a slightly longer cooking time. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165℉ for safety.
What can I substitute if I don’t have coconut aminos?
Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari are perfect substitutes. Both provide the savory umami depth needed for the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Using vegan mayo as suggested in the honey-mustard sauce keeps it dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess or flavor.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can absolutely mix the spice rub and prepare the honey-mustard sauce ahead of time. Vegetables can be chopped and stored in the fridge a day before for quicker prep on cooking day.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe balances mild warmth and smokiness rather than intense heat. You can adjust or omit the chipotle powder if you prefer less spice, making it suitable for all palates.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and clean up, you simply have to try the Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Honey-Mustard Sauce Recipe. From the juicy chicken thighs and tender-roasted broccoli to the luscious, tangy sauce, each bite feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. This recipe is destined to become one of your favorites — I can personally guarantee it!
PrintSheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Broccoli and Honey-Mustard Sauce Recipe
A flavorful and easy sheet pan meal featuring perfectly seasoned boneless, skinless chicken thighs roasted alongside tender broccoli florets and red onion. This recipe comes together quickly with a smoky, slightly sweet spice rub and a tangy honey-mustard sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 1/4 lbs), patted dry
- 1 (12-ounce) bag raw broccoli florets (6–7 cups)
- ½ medium red onion, sliced (1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon avocado oil or olive oil, divided
- Nonstick cooking spray
Spice Rub
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon chipotle powder
Honey-Mustard Sauce
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (for egg-free use vegan mayo or plain Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons coconut aminos (or 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of fine salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Sheet Pan: Place a large rimmed baking sheet in the oven and preheat the oven to 450℉ with the pan inside. Preheating the baking sheet ensures even cooking of the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the oven heats, combine broccoli florets and sliced red onion in a medium bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil, season with salt and black pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
- Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chipotle powder until well combined.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil to evenly coat. Then sprinkle the prepared spice rub all over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Arrange on Hot Sheet Pan: Remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven using oven mitts. Spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the seasoned broccoli and onions in an even layer on the sheet, leaving spaces to nestle the chicken thighs among the vegetables.
- Bake: Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, stir the vegetables gently to promote even roasting. Continue baking for another 5 minutes or until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165℉ and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- Prepare Honey-Mustard Sauce: While the chicken is baking, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, coconut aminos, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Plate the roasted chicken thighs and vegetables together with a generous dollop of the honey-mustard sauce. Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Preheating the baking sheet helps the chicken and vegetables cook evenly and develop better browning.
- You can substitute the broccoli with other sturdy vegetables like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts if desired.
- For an egg-free option, use vegan mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt in the honey-mustard sauce.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked to 165℉.
- Leftover sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- You can adjust the chipotle powder amount to control the heat level in the seasoning rub.
