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How long to bake chicken and broccoli depends on whether you’re baking them together on one sheet pan or cooking them separately.
The good news is that both chicken and broccoli bake fairly quickly, so you can have a healthy, delicious meal on the table in under 40 minutes.
If you’ve been wondering how long to bake chicken and broccoli without ending up with dry chicken or mushy florets, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll cover exactly how long to bake chicken and broccoli, the best temperatures to use, and a few tips so both components come out perfectly cooked every time.
Let’s get to it.
How Long to Bake Chicken and Broccoli
When you bake chicken and broccoli together on a sheet pan, the total bake time is usually 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Here’s how that breaks down:
1. Chicken Breasts Take 20 to 25 Minutes
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most common choice for this dish, and they typically need 20 to 25 minutes in a 400°F oven.
The exact time depends on thickness.
Thin cutlets (about ½ inch thick) may be done in 15 to 18 minutes, while thicker breasts (1 inch or more) can take up to 30 minutes.
Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before pulling the pan out.
2. Broccoli Needs 15 to 20 Minutes
Broccoli florets roast beautifully in about 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F.
They come out tender with slightly crispy edges, which is exactly what you want.
If you’re baking chicken and broccoli on the same pan, add the broccoli about 5 to 8 minutes after the chicken goes in so it doesn’t overcook.
3. Chicken Thighs Take a Bit Longer
If you’re using bone-in chicken thighs, expect a longer bake time of 35 to 40 minutes.
Boneless thighs fall somewhere in between at around 25 to 30 minutes.
So how long to bake chicken and broccoli really hinges on which cut you choose.
Best Temperature for Baking Chicken and Broccoli
The ideal oven temperature for baking chicken and broccoli is 400°F (200°C).
Here’s why that temperature works so well:
1. High Heat Roasts Without Drying Out
A 400°F oven gives you that golden, roasted finish on the broccoli while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Lower temperatures (around 350°F) work too, but they add 5 to 10 minutes to the bake time and won’t give the broccoli those crispy edges.
2. Even Cooking on One Sheet Pan
When you bake chicken and broccoli together, 400°F ensures both cook evenly without one finishing way before the other.
Just spread everything in a single layer so the heat circulates properly.
3. A Quick Broil at the End
If you want extra char on the broccoli, switch to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes.
Keep an eye on it though, because things go from roasted to burnt fast under the broiler.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken and Broccoli
Knowing how long to bake chicken and broccoli is half the battle, but these tips will help you nail the other half:
1. Cut Chicken Into Even Pieces
Uneven pieces cook at different rates, so pound thicker breasts to an even thickness or slice them into similar-sized chunks.
2. Toss Broccoli in Oil and Seasoning
A little olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder helps the broccoli roast instead of steam.
Do the same with the chicken for flavor and browning.
3. Don’t Crowd the Pan
Overcrowding traps moisture and gives you soggy broccoli instead of roasted.
Use two pans if needed.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
The safest way to know your chicken is done is to check the internal temperature.
165°F (74°C) means it’s safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
So, How Long to Bake Chicken and Broccoli?
Baking chicken and broccoli together takes about 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F, depending on the cut of chicken and the size of your broccoli florets.
Chicken breasts typically need 20 to 25 minutes, thighs take a little longer, and broccoli roasts perfectly in 15 to 20 minutes.
Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness, spread everything in a single layer, and don’t be afraid of a quick broil at the end for extra crispness.
Hope this post has helped you figure out exactly how long to bake chicken and broccoli so your next sheet pan dinner comes out perfect.