Sheet Pan Sweet and Sour Chicken Easy Weeknight Meal

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Sheet Pan Sweet and Sour Chicken! This easy weeknight meal combines juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a mouthwatering sauce. With just one pan, you’ll save time and cleanup while enjoying a delicious dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking! Your next favorite family meal is just moments away.

Ingredients

– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup assorted bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced

– 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks

– 1 cup broccoli florets

– 1 medium red onion, sliced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

– Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving

For this sweet and sour chicken, I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender as they cook. You can also swap in chicken breasts if you prefer.

The colorful bell peppers add a nice crunch and sweetness. I like to mix red, yellow, and green for a pretty plate. Pineapple chunks bring in that classic sweet-and-sour flavor. Fresh or canned works well, so choose what you have.

Next, I add broccoli florets for extra nutrients. You can also use snow peas or snap peas if you like. The red onion gives a mild bite that balances the dish.

Garlic adds depth, while soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey create the sauce. Cornstarch helps thicken it. Freshly grated ginger gives a warm zing, and sesame oil adds richness.

Lastly, I sprinkle on salt and black pepper to taste. When ready to serve, I pair this dish with fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet

– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Preparing the Sauce

– In a bowl, mix soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, cornstarch, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

– Whisk until smooth. This sauce adds the sweet and sour flavor.

Marinating the Chicken

– In a large bowl, add bite-sized chicken pieces.

– Pour the sauce over the chicken.

– Toss well so each piece is coated.

– This step enhances the chicken’s taste.

Arranging Vegetables

– On the same baking sheet, place sliced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, broccoli, and red onion.

– Drizzle with olive oil, then add salt and pepper.

– This helps the veggies roast well and taste great.

Baking the Dish

– Place the baking sheet in the oven.

– Bake for 25-30 minutes.

– Stir halfway through cooking for even heat.

– The chicken should be cooked, and veggies should be tender.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve this dish over cooked rice or quinoa.

– Drizzle the pan juices over the top for extra flavor.

– Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if you like.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Even Cooking

To make sure your chicken cooks well, space the pieces apart on the baking sheet. This gives hot air room to circulate and helps everything cook evenly. When you bake, stir the vegetables halfway through. This step ensures they get soft and tasty on all sides.

Enhancing Flavor

Want to make your dish pop? Try garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds. These add a nice crunch and color. If you want something to drink, serve the chicken with a light soda or iced tea. Both pair nicely with the sweet and tangy flavors of the dish.

Easy Cleanup and Prep

Cleanup can be a breeze! Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet. It catches spills and makes washing up easier. If you’re busy during the week, prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them together in the fridge. This way, dinner is quick and simple, even on the craziest nights.

Variations

Alternative Protein Options

You can easily switch the chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster. Just cut them into small pieces like thighs. If you want a vegetarian twist, try using tofu. Firm tofu works best. Press it to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes. Marinate it just like chicken. This will soak up all the great flavors.

Vegetable Substitutions

Feel free to mix in other veggies you love. Carrots, snap peas, or zucchini can add great taste. You can also use seasonal vegetables. In spring, try asparagus or peas. In fall, sweet potatoes work well. The key is to pick vegetables that cook at a similar rate. This way, everything will be done at the same time.

Sauce Modifications

Want to kick up the flavor? Add new spices or sauces. Teriyaki sauce gives a sweet twist, while hoisin adds depth. You can also adjust the sweetness. If you like it less sweet, cut back on the honey. For more tang, add extra apple cider vinegar. Always taste as you go. This helps you find the perfect balance for your dish.

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage

To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. I like using glass containers as they keep food fresh. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.

Long-Term Storage

For long-term storage, you can freeze the dish. Make sure it cools completely. Then, place the meal in a freezer-safe bag or container. It stays good in the freezer for up to three months. To keep the best taste, try to remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. For the microwave, place it in a bowl and cover it. Heat it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. This way, the flavors stay rich and the texture remains nice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. You can place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting. Once thawed, cut it into bite-sized pieces. This step helps the chicken cook evenly.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this sweet and sour chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Many brands offer great options that taste similar. You can also check for gluten-free cornstarch. It is usually safe, but always read labels. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worry.

What other sides can I serve with sweet and sour chicken?

This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:

– Steamed jasmine rice

– Quinoa for a healthy twist

– Fried rice for extra flavor

– A fresh salad for crunch

– Noodles for a fun alternative

These sides will complement the sweet and sour chicken nicely.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. Marinate the chicken and chop the veggies the night before. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to eat, just bake everything. This makes for an easy weeknight meal!

This dish combines simple ingredients for a tasty meal. You prepped chicken, veggies, and a flavorful sauce. After baking, it creates a delightful blend of sweet and savory. Remember, you can swap proteins and veggies to suit your taste. It’s also easy to store and reheat. Enjoy this meal on a busy weeknight or share it at a gathering. With these tips, you can cook confidently and impress everyone. So, get cooking and savor each bit