Sheet Pan Chicken With Garlic Sauce

Name: Sheet Pan Chicken With Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 2 cups mixed bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 teaspoons dried oregano

Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Classics

I love making Sheet Pan Chicken with Garlic Sauce because it’s one of those meals that comes together effortlessly and delivers bold flavors. The chicken turns out perfectly juicy, while the garlic sauce adds a delightful zing that elevates the entire dish. I enjoy the ease of clean-up as everything cooks on one pan, which means more time to savor the flavors and less time washing dishes. Plus, the vibrant colors of roasted vegetables paired with the golden chicken make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:25:36.568Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and satisfying it was. The aroma of garlic filled my kitchen, making everyone instantly hungry. I found that marinating the chicken in the garlic sauce beforehand makes a noticeable difference in flavor—it's worth the effort!

Another helpful tip I discovered is to use a variety of colorful vegetables. Not only do they add a nice crunch, but they also make the meal visually appealing. I usually toss in bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor and nutrition.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken infused with rich garlic flavor
One-pan dish means less clean-up and more time enjoying your meal
Vibrant, colorful veggies add nutrition and aesthetic appeal

The Importance of Garlic Sauce

The garlic sauce is the star of this dish, providing both flavor and moisture to the chicken and vegetables. The combination of minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey creates a delightful balance of tanginess and sweetness. When marinating the chicken, aim for at least 15 minutes; however, if time allows, marinating for an hour will deepen the flavors significantly. The garlic sauce caramelizes during the baking process, resulting in a glossy exterior that enhances the dish's visual appeal.

Additionally, using fresh minced garlic rather than pre-minced allows for a more vibrant taste. Always check for the freshness of your garlic; it should be firm and free of sprouts or blemishes. If you're short on garlic or prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount or substitute with roasted garlic, which offers a sweeter and creamier profile.

Selecting and Preparing Vegetables

Choosing the right vegetables is crucial for this sheet pan meal. Mixed bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes create a colorful and nutritious medley. When selecting peppers, look for firm skin and vibrant colors; any wrinkles or soft spots indicate that they are past their prime. For the zucchini, choose smaller varieties for a sweeter flavor and tender texture, cutting them into even slices ensures uniform cooking.

You can also customize the vegetable selection based on seasonal availability. Alternatives like asparagus, broccoli, or red onions can add different flavors and textures. Just be mindful that some vegetables have varying cooking times. For instance, broccoli may require a few extra minutes in the oven, so add it halfway through the cooking time to ensure everything is tender and perfectly roasted.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetables

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 cups mixed bell peppers, chopped
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Sauce

6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons dried oregano

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour half of the garlic sauce over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Arrange the Ingredients

On a large sheet pan, arrange the marinated chicken thighs. Add the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes around the chicken.

Drizzle and Bake

Drizzle the remaining garlic sauce over the vegetables and chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Sheet Pan Chicken with Garlic Sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil as a garnish before serving. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or lunches. When reheating, I recommend using the oven instead of a microwave to maintain the chicken's crisp skin. Simply cover the pan with aluminum foil to prevent drying out, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken and vegetables. Cool them completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, following the same oven method mentioned above.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

This Sheet Pan Chicken with Garlic Sauce is versatile and can be served on its own or alongside your favorite sides. A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the dish wonderfully, providing a fresh contrast to the rich flavors. Additionally, serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa allows you to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.

For a Mediterranean twist, consider topping with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil after baking. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also elevate the dish for a special occasion. Whatever route you choose, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be mindful that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add carrots, broccoli, or asparagus for added variety.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the vegetables a day in advance; just store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.