Who else needs a reliable sticky chicken recipe to add to weeknight dinners? *raises both hands*
Happy Monday! How are you? How was your weekend?
If you’re anything like me, you want an easy, satisfying Monday night meal after a weekend of pizza and tacos. Nothing wrong with that—those are the hallmark signs of a good weekend. But a fresh, exciting chicken dinner can make the start of the week feel a little brighter.
We actually had a rare weekend where everyone was healthy for once, and it felt like sunshine returned after weeks of being stuck inside. It’s a small thing, but it made the weekend feel special.
Okay, sticky chicken. I’m always chasing a better version, and this one checks so many boxes. It’s sweet, sticky and roasted on a sheet pan for an effortless dinner. The glaze has honey and brown sugar for that irresistible caramelized finish. Brush the sauce on during cooking so the chicken ends up glossy and sticky.
Story of my life.
After the chicken is roasted, top it with a bright pineapple salsa. The contrast of sweet, tangy fruit and sticky, savory chicken is what makes this recipe feel special. It’s got a touch of heat, balanced sweetness, and a fresh finish from the salsa—ingredients that will make you excited for chicken again.
Full disclosure: fruit salsas have been my obsession for years. If you’ve seen my recipes before, you know I love tossing fruit into salsas and salads. This pineapple version is an easy favorite.
I like serving this with roasted vegetables—sweet and spicy Brussels sprouts or spicy roasted broccoli are my go-to sides—plus something simple like a grilled corn and tomato salad when the weather warms up. The chicken is versatile, and you can switch the fruit in the salsa for mango or peach depending on what’s in season.
Even if it’s still chilly outside, this dish brings warm-weather vibes to the table. It’s great as a main dish for a weeknight or as part of a larger dinner spread. Little effort, big flavor.
Also: I keep typing WINE, which is a clear sign it’s time for a glass.
Sheet Pan Sticky Chicken Recipe with Pineapple Salsa
Sticky Sheet Pan Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Sticky Sheet Pan Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 pound chicken drumsticks
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
pineapple salsa
- 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks
- 1 shallot, diced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- pinch salt and pepper
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray it with nonstick spray.
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Arrange the chicken thighs and drumsticks on the sheet pan and season both sides with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
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In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar and apple cider vinegar. Brush a thin layer of the mixture onto the chicken; reserve the remaining sauce.
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Roast the chicken for 20 minutes. Brush on more sauce, then roast 10 more minutes. Brush or spoon on any remaining sauce and roast 15 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Remove from the oven and serve immediately with the pineapple salsa.
pineapple salsa
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Combine the pineapple, shallot, cilantro, lime juice and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine. You can make the salsa ahead and chill for the flavors to meld; it keeps well for 1–2 days in the refrigerator.
Did you make this recipe?
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The caramelized, sticky finish is everything.