Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Sheet pan dinners have become a staple for those who love quick, easy, and nutritious meals with minimal cleanup. One of the standout recipes that has gained popularity is Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts. This dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something healthy yet packed with flavor. With the sweetness of ginger, the umami richness of soy sauce, and the earthy goodness of roasted Brussels sprouts, this meal is a guaranteed hit.

If you’re new to the world of sheet pan meals or simply want to master the art of roasting veggies and chicken to perfection, you’re in the right place. For more detailed tips on roasting veggies like Brussels sprouts, check out this guide to roasting Brussels sprouts for perfect caramelization and crispiness.

What is Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

At its core, Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is a one-pan dinner where chicken and Brussels sprouts are tossed in a ginger-soy glaze and roasted to perfection. The combination of juicy chicken and crispy, caramelized vegetables creates a balance of flavors and textures that is both delicious and satisfying.

Why Are Sheet Pan Dinners So Popular?

There are several reasons why sheet pan dinners have become a go-to for many busy individuals:

Minimal Cleanup: All ingredients are cooked on one pan, so there’s little to wash up afterward.
Healthy: Roasting locks in flavors without the need for excessive fats or oils, making it a healthy choice.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Time-Saving: With everything cooking at once, you can prepare a full meal in under an hour.

If you’re looking to make weeknight meals easier without sacrificing taste, sheet pan meals like this one are the perfect solution.

Key Ingredients for Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor and texture, and they are all easy to find at any grocery store.

Chicken

Best Cut: For this recipe, either chicken thighs or chicken breasts can be used. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but breasts are a leaner option if you’re watching your fat intake.
Marinade: The chicken is marinated in a ginger-soy mixture, which helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with bold flavors.

Brussels Sprouts

Why Brussels Sprouts?: Brussels sprouts are a fantastic vegetable to roast because they become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
Preparation Tip: Halve the sprouts to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice caramelized exterior.

Fresh Ginger

Flavor Profile: Fresh ginger adds a slightly spicy, warming flavor that complements the savory soy sauce and sweet honey in the marinade.
Health Benefits: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits, making this dish not only tasty but good for you as well.

Additional Veggies (Optional)

You can add other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or red onions to the pan for extra flavor and variety. These vegetables roast well and pair beautifully with the ginger-soy glaze.

Spices and Seasonings

Soy Sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor to the dish.
Honey: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and the spice of the ginger with a touch of sweetness.
Garlic: Enhances the savory notes and adds complexity to the overall flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps everything roast to crispy perfection without burning.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Ready to make the ultimate sheet pan dinner? Follow this step-by-step guide to create a meal that’s both delicious and easy.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or 2 large chicken breasts
2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds or chopped scallions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and olive oil. This will form the flavorful glaze for both the chicken and Brussels sprouts.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over it. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in the remaining marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Assemble the Sheet Pan: Spread the Brussels sprouts in an even layer on one half of the sheet pan. Place the marinated chicken on the other half. Season everything with salt and pepper.
Roast the Chicken and Vegetables: Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken and stirring the Brussels sprouts halfway through. Roast until the chicken is fully cooked and the Brussels sprouts are crispy and caramelized.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra-crispy finish, turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for added texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure the Brussels sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the sheet pan, without overlapping.
Marinating Time: If you have time, marinate the chicken for up to an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Broiling Finish: The broiling step is optional but highly recommended to give both the chicken and vegetables a slightly charred, crispy finish.

Nutritional Benefits of Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of the health benefits:

Protein: The chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Fiber and Vitamins: Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, supporting digestive and immune health.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, ginger also adds a burst of flavor without extra calories.
Low in Calories: With minimal added fats and sugars, this is a healthy meal option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Variations of Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

One of the best things about sheet pan dinners is their versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

Spicy Ginger Chicken

Additions: For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Tip: If you’re a fan of heat, you can also swap the honey for chili garlic sauce.

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken

Additions: Wrap each piece of chicken in bacon before roasting for an indulgent twist.
Tip: The bacon fat will help crisp up the Brussels sprouts, adding even more flavor.

Vegetarian Version

Substitutions: Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh. Use the same marinade and roasting method for a protein-packed vegetarian dish.
Tip: Press the tofu before marinating to remove excess moisture and ensure it crisps up nicely in the oven.

Gluten-Free Option

Substitution: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of the marinade.

How to Make Ahead and Store Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

This dish is perfect for meal prep, and it stores well for future meals. Here’s how to make it ahead and store it properly:

Make-Ahead Tips

Marinate Ahead: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
Prep the Veggies: Cut the Brussels sprouts the day before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Storing and Freezing

Refrigerating Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While this dish freezes well, the Brussels sprouts may lose some of their crispiness when reheated. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Oven: For the best texture, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through.
Microwave: You can microwave leftovers, but they may lose some crispiness.

For more details on how to keep roasted veggies crispy and delicious after reheating, check out this helpful guide to reheating roasted vegetables.

FAQs About Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

How Do I Make the Chicken More Flavorful?

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a longer time—overnight if possible. You can also baste the chicken with the marinade halfway through roasting.

Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?

Yes, but keep in mind that frozen Brussels sprouts won’t get as crispy. To help reduce moisture, thaw and pat them dry before roasting.

What Can I Serve with This Dish?

Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is great on its own, but it also pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even a light green salad.

How Long Does This Dish Last in the Fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Sheet Pan?

Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onions all work well in this dish. Just be sure to cut them to a size that allows them to cook evenly alongside the chicken and Brussels sprouts.

Sheet Pan Ginger Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. The combination of tender chicken, crispy Brussels sprouts, and the sweet heat of ginger makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. With minimal cleanup and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Happy cooking!