The aroma of ginger and sesame wafting from the oven—there’s nothing quite like it, right? That’s exactly what you’ll experience with my Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts. In just under 40 minutes, you can serve a meal that’s not only gluten-free but also satisfies the cravings of both the busy weeknight and the gourmet weekend. This dish offers the perfect blend of tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, paired with caramelized Brussels sprouts that add a delightful crunch. It’s quick and easy, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to swap fast food for something homemade and wholesome. Curious about how to elevate your weeknight dinners without the stress? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity made spectacular: This recipe requires minimal prep and clean-up with just a single sheet pan, making it a breeze after a long day.
Bold flavors that shine: The mix of ginger, sesame, and pomegranate creates a sticky sauce that elevates every bite.
Healthy and satisfying: Featuring gluten-free ingredients, this dish offers a nutritious alternative to your typical fast food fix.
Versatile substitutions: Easily swap chicken for tofu or explore different veggies for a new twist, catering to varying dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this meal guarantees smiles and second helpings! Dive into more amazing flavors with our other quick weeknight dinner recipes to keep the inspiration flowing.
Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Cubed Chicken Breast – A main protein source; substituting chicken thighs adds juiciness to the dish.
- Egg – Binds seasoning and flour for a crispier crust; use a vegan alternative if needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Coats chicken for that coveted crispy texture; gluten-free flour blend works too.
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels Sprouts – Essential for a crunchy, caramelized texture; halving them helps prevent overcrowding.
- Olive Oil – Aids in crisping the chicken and Brussels sprouts; other oils like avocado or sesame oil can substitute.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – The backbone of the sticky sauce; opt for gluten-free soy sauce to meet dietary needs.
- Pomegranate Juice – Adds fruity acidity and sweetness; consider apple cider or fresh orange juice as alternatives.
- Honey – Sweetens the sauce beautifully; for a vegan option, maple syrup is a great substitute.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Enhances tang and depth; just a touch brings balance to the flavors.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the sauce; a similar vinegar can work in a pinch.
- Molasses – Brings rich flavor and color; dark brown sugar can replace it if needed.
- Peanut Butter – Provides creaminess and depth in the sauce; almond butter or sun butter work as alternatives.
- Garlic – An aromatic flavor booster; fresh is best but garlic powder can also suffice.
- Fresh Grated Ginger – Elevates the dish with its distinctive flavor; freshly grated is ideal.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a splash of heat; optional for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
For Garnish
- Green Onions – Brightens the dish while adding flavor; chop them finely for a fresh topping.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – Brings a nutty crunch that complements the chicken; can be toasted at home easily.
- Pomegranate Arils – Enhances both flavor and visual appeal; sprinkle them generously for that pop of color.
This delightful Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts recipe not only brings warmth and comfort to your table but also caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy building this beautiful dish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature ensures that your Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts will roast perfectly, achieving that delightful caramelization you’re looking for. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken breast with a beaten egg and a sprinkle of black pepper. This step helps the flour adhere better to the chicken, creating a deliciously crispy crust. Ensure each piece is well coated. Once ready, set the chicken aside for a moment while you prepare the flour.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
On a plate, spread out your all-purpose flour. Dredge each piece of the chicken in the flour, making sure it’s completely covered for a crunchy coating. After coating them, place the floured chicken on the parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they have a bit of space in between to promote even cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Next, prepare the Brussels sprouts. In a mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This seasoning enhances their natural flavors and ensures they roast beautifully. Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts around the chicken on the same baking sheet—just be sure not to overcrowd them for optimal crispiness.
Step 5: Roast the Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Put your baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12 minutes. At this halfway point, pull the sheet out and give the Brussels sprouts a gentle toss while flipping the chicken to ensure even cooking. This will help create a deliciously sticky chicken and perfectly caramelized sprouts.
Step 6: Finish Roasting
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a golden color. The Brussels sprouts should be tender with crispy edges. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 7: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, pomegranate juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, molasses, peanut butter, minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until it thickens to a sticky consistency that coats the back of a spoon beautifully.
Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Now it's time to enhance that flavor! Toss the roasted chicken in half of the sticky sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Return the chicken to the oven for an additional 3 minutes, allowing it to soak in the delicious ginger-sesame goodness and finish caramelizing.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Once satisfied with the flavors, plate the sticky ginger sesame chicken alongside the crispy Brussels sprouts. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and pomegranate arils for a colorful and enticing presentation. Serve over rice for a complete meal, and enjoy the delightful contrast of textures in your homemade feast!
Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken
Uniform Cuts: Ensure even cooking by cutting chicken and Brussels sprouts into uniform pieces; this way, everything cooks at the same rate.
Sauce Patience: Be patient when reducing the sauce; the longer you simmer, the richer and stickier it becomes, enhancing the overall flavor.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don't overcrowd the pan with Brussels sprouts; spreading them out allows for maximum crispiness, giving you that perfect texture.
Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Garnishing Touch: Add garnishes right before serving; this keeps them fresh and vibrant, adding a beautiful pop of color to your Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts are a dream for those who love to meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in the ginger-sesame sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while the chicken stays juicy. Additionally, you can wash, halve, and season the Brussels sprouts up to 3 days ahead; just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. When it's time to enjoy your meal, simply roast the chicken and Brussels sprouts as directed. This not only saves you time but ensures a quick, delicious dinner that feels as fresh as if you made it on the spot!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Transforming a weeknight dinner into a celebration of flavors is easy when you have the right accompaniments to pair with your meal.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, fragrant bed to soak up the sticky sauce, elevating the entire dining experience.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Golden-brown garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast, perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp texture and bright acidity that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture complement the spicy, sticky chicken beautifully. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor kick!
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal’s flavors, ensuring each bite feels like a gourmet experience.
- Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: As a light and creamy dessert, this pudding offers a tropical finish to your meal, with a hint of sweetness that mirrors the dish’s flavors.
Each pairing not only rounds out the plate but creates a delicious symphony of tastes and textures, ensuring your dinner sends everyone home with a happy heart and satisfied palate!
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the chicken tender and the Brussels sprouts flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze completely cooled chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This helps retain texture when reheating.
Reheating: To restore the crispy texture, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, checking until heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Portioning: Consider dividing the meal into single servings before freezing for quick, easy weeknight dinners without the need to defrost the entire batch.
Variations for Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, catering to your loved ones' tastes and dietary needs!
- Tofu Swap: Use firm or extra-firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian delight. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
- Veggie Options: Swap in sweet potatoes or carrots alongside Brussels sprouts for a colorful, nutritious twist. Both add a touch of sweetness that complements the sauce beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Alternatives: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing crunch. You can also test out alternative coating methods like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour!
- Extra Crunch: Toss some chopped nuts, such as cashews or peanuts, into the mix for added texture and depth. The nuts will toast in the oven, bringing an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sticky sauce.
- Crispy Skin Lovers: If you're a fan of the crispy texture, use chicken skin-on thighs instead of chicken breasts. This adds rich flavor and a delectable crunch.
- Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the marinade. This will elevate the dish with a delightful kick!
- Sweet & Tangy Mix: Experiment with your sweeteners! Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for a different flavor profile. You could even toss in a tablespoon of brown sugar for caramelization.
- Herb Infusions: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil before serving to introduce a fragrant burst of flavor. The freshness of the herbs beautifully contrasts with the sticky sauce and serves as an eye-catching garnish.
Delight in the endless possibilities! This recipe is all about flexibility, just like our other quick weeknight dinner recipes that keep families coming back for more. Explore all the flavors this meal can offer with simple adjustments!
Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken and Crispy Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, tightly packed heads with vibrant green color. Avoid any that have yellow or wilted outer leaves or dark spots all over, as this indicates they are past their prime. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them ideal for this recipe.
How should I store leftovers of this dish?
After enjoying your Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method preserves the tenderness of the chicken and the flavor of the Brussels sprouts. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Can I freeze the chicken and Brussels sprouts?
Very! To freeze, first cool the chicken and Brussels sprouts completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring they’re sealed tightly. You can store them this way for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes until heated through and crisp.
What if my chicken isn’t browning during cooking?
If your chicken isn’t developing a golden crust, it could be due to overcrowding the pan. Make sure to spread the chicken pieces out evenly with enough space between them to allow hot air to circulate, promoting even browning. Additionally, always ensure your oven is preheated fully before placing the pan inside!
Are there any dietary considerations for making this dish?
Of course! If you have gluten sensitivities, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free flour blend for coating the chicken. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for firm or extra-firm tofu, and do remember to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture. This ensures a better texture when roasted!
How can I ensure my sauce thickens properly?
To achieve that perfect sticky consistency, it’s essential to allow the sauce to boil and then simmer without rushing. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, and watch for it to coat the back of a spoon—this means it’s ready to glaze your chicken beautifully!
Easy Sheet Pan Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken & Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss cubed chicken breast with a beaten egg and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in all-purpose flour, ensuring they are completely covered.
- In a mixing bowl, toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread seasoned Brussels sprouts around the chicken on the same baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, tossing Brussels sprouts and flipping chicken halfway.
- Finish roasting for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until chicken is no longer pink.
- In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients and bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Toss the roasted chicken in half of the sticky sauce, then return to the oven for 3 minutes.
- Serve with crispy Brussels sprouts and garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and pomegranate arils.
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