There’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of a delicious meal wafting through the kitchen, especially after a long day. Imagine the gentle sizzle of chicken thighs meeting a hot pan, enveloped in a vibrant citrus glaze that promises to brighten both your plate and your mood. This Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken with Brussels Sprouts is not only a feast for the senses but also a low-effort, high-reward delight that brings a burst of flavor with minimal cleanup.
As the chicken roasts, it transforms into crispy, caramelized bites of perfection while the sweet and tangy glaze drips onto the tender Brussels sprouts, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether cooking for family or simply treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, turning busy weeknights into a culinary celebration. So grab that baking sheet and get ready to enjoy a high-impact meal that gives you all the comfort without the fuss!
Why love Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken?
Simplicity at its finest: Just marinate, bake, and enjoy! This one-pan meal cuts down on your cooking time and cleanup efforts, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor-packed goodness: The sweet citrus glaze paired with savory chicken thighs and crispy Brussels sprouts creates a delightful harmony that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile and customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or try different protein options like tofu for a tasty vegetarian twist.
Crowd-pleaser potential: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy a group, making it a go-to recipe for endless occasions.
Get ready to relish the delightful experience of one-pan dinners!
Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Provides rich flavor and moisture during cooking.
• Kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds spice to the marinade and seasoning.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – Introduces umami depth without excessive saltiness.
• Cornstarch – Can be used for thickening if desired.
For the Marinade
• Juice of 2 medium oranges – Contributes sweetness and acidity to balance the dish.
• Juice of 1 lime – Additional tanginess to brighten the flavors.
• Honey – Adds sweetness and helps create a glaze.
• Dijon mustard – Offers a slight tang and complexity to the marinade.
• Freshly chopped rosemary – Brings aromatic earthy flavors; substitute with thyme for a different profile.
• Freshly chopped thyme – Complements the rosemary, enhancing the herbaceous notes.
• Pinch crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a hint of heat to balance sweetness.
For the Vegetables
• Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved – A nutritious vegetable that roasts beautifully alongside the chicken.
• Extra-virgin olive oil – Used for coating the vegetables for roasting, enhancing flavor.
Enjoy creating this Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken—a delightful combination of ingredients that’ll leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
How to Make Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken
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Marinate: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, herbs, and red pepper flakes. Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs in a large bowl and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting. This temperature is perfect for getting that crispy skin on the chicken!
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Prepare Pan: Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re spread out. Scatter the halved Brussels sprouts around the chicken, making for a beautiful and colorful presentation.
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Season: Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the sprouts.
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Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, brushing the chicken with reserved marinade halfway through. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and juicy.
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Broil (optional): For that extra crispy skin, switch your oven setting to broil for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
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Garnish: Once done, sprinkle additional fresh herbs over the chicken and sprouts before serving to enhance the flavors.
Optional: Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken?
Create a well-rounded meal that complements the bright and zesty flavors of this dish.
- Fluffy Rice: The perfect base to soak up the delicious citrus glaze, adding a comforting staple to your plate.
- Crusty French Bread: Ideal for dipping into the luscious sauce, it adds a satisfying crunch that balances the dish beautifully.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes that of the glaze while adding vibrant color and texture—a delightful pairing!
- Garlic Green Beans: Tender yet crisp, they provide a fresh and healthy contrast to the richness of the chicken and sprouts.
- Citrus Spinach Salad: A light, refreshing side with citrus segments and walnuts that echo the meal’s main flavors while adding crunch.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine enhances the meal, its acidity harmonizing with the sweetness of the glaze.
- Lemon Sorbet: The bright, icy treat offers a refreshing finish to your meal, cleansing the palate and leaving you satisfied.
Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken
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Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This enhances the sweet and tangy profile of your dish.
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Watch the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F; overcooking leads to dry meat.
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Save Some Marinade: Reserve a portion of the marinade before adding it to the chicken for a flavorful glaze to brush on during roasting.
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Don’t Crowd the Pan: Leaving space between chicken thighs and Brussels sprouts allows for even roasting, ensuring everything gets crispy.
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Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap Brussels sprouts with other seasonal vegetables, like carrots or green beans, for variety.
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Perfectly Seasoned Sprouts: Be generous with olive oil and seasoning on your vegetables to enhance their flavor while roasting.
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your delicious meal stays fresh and full of flavor!
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts for up to 3 months. Make sure they are cooled completely, then place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. This method keeps the chicken skin crispy while keeping the meat juicy.
Marinade Tip: If you want to savor the citrus glaze, freeze additional reserved marinade in ice cube trays. Use these cubes to add flavor to future dishes or as a quick sauce!
Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this dish your own with a range of delicious swaps and additions.
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Lean Protein: Swap chicken thighs for bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts to reduce fat while keeping juicy flavor.
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Veggie Switch: Replace Brussels sprouts with sweet potatoes or carrots for a sweet twist and hearty texture.
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Herb Swap: Use fresh oregano or basil instead of rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic profile that still complements the glaze beautifully.
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Sweetener Alternative: Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option that still provides a lovely sweetness.
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Heat Level: Add fresh chopped jalapeño or substitute crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick that elevates the dish.
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Seasoned Tofu: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with firm tofu marinated in the same citrus glaze for a flavorful plant-based meal.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari to maintain the umami without the gluten.
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Flavor Boost: Add a splash of sesame oil to the marinade for a nutty depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
With these variations, you’re ready to impress and enjoy a dish that truly reflects your personal style and taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the flavorful citrus mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors. Additionally, you can wash and cut the Brussels sprouts up to 3 days ahead; just store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your oven, arrange the marinated chicken and sprouts on a baking sheet, and roast them as directed. This approach not only saves time but ensures that your dish will be just as delicious, making busy weeknights feel like a special treat!
Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for those that are plump with a nice layer of fat under the skin. The fresh color should be pinkish with no dark spots. If possible, choose organic or free-range for the best flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
Very! You can keep leftover Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re like me and love leftovers, just make sure to reheat them in the oven for optimum crispiness.
Can I freeze this dish?
Of course! To freeze, let the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts cool completely. Then, transfer them into freezer-safe bags or containers. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label them with the date!
What if my chicken isn’t browning properly?
Don’t worry! If your chicken isn’t browning as expected, it might help to make sure it’s not crowded on the baking sheet. Give each piece room to breathe for even roasting. Also, consider turning on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking; this helps achieve that golden-brown perfection.
Can pets eat this meal?
Great question! While the chicken itself is safe for dogs, be mindful of the salt and seasoning. It’s best to give them plain, unseasoned pieces. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure about introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Is there a gluten-free version of the marinade?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the low-sodium soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari. This will keep the delicious flavor intact while making the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Easy Sheet Pan Citrus-Glazed Chicken for Effortless Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, herbs, and red pepper flakes. Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs in a large bowl and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.
- Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re spread out. Scatter the halved Brussels sprouts around the chicken.
- Drizzle the Brussels sprouts with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, brushing the chicken with reserved marinade halfway through.
- For that extra crispy skin, switch your oven setting to broil for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Once done, sprinkle additional fresh herbs over the chicken and sprouts before serving.