Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as colorful as it is delicious, then you’ve found it with this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! This recipe is a favorite in my home because it combines tender chicken breast with juicy pineapple and vibrant bell peppers. The best part? It requires minimal effort and cleanup, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish not only brings a taste of the islands to your table but also fills your home with amazing aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a regular feature at your family gatherings and weeknight meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavorful and Fun: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a delightful explosion of flavors.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup since everything cooks on one sheet pan—less stress for you!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the marinade to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from chicken and veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for the whole family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that the ingredients for this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner are simple and wholesome. Let’s gather what we need to create this vibrant meal!

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Vegetables

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro

Variations

One of the beautiful things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences!

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Throw in some snap peas, broccoli, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the fruit: Mango or even peaches would work wonderfully if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Spice it up: Add some chili flakes or sriracha to give it a bit of heat!

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that every piece of chicken is coated in this delicious marinade. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes; this step helps infuse all those wonderful flavors into the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Sheet Pan

While the chicken marinates, spread out your diced red and yellow bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks evenly on a large sheet pan. This colorful mix not only looks good but adds fantastic flavor as they roast together.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to place those marinated chicken pieces over your vibrant vegetable bed on the sheet pan. Don’t forget to pour any leftover marinade on top—it’s packed with flavor! This step ensures that everything cooks together beautifully.

Step 4: Bake Away!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. Give everything a gentle stir halfway through cooking; this helps ensure even roasting. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If necessary, pop it back in for an additional 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once done baking, remove your sheet pan from the oven and let everything rest for a few minutes. This allows those juices to settle back into the chicken. Top with fresh cilantro before serving warm over steamed rice or quinoa—perfect for soaking up all that flavorful sauce!

Enjoy preparing this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for quick weeknight meals!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Creating a delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is easy and fun with a few simple tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time!

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, ensuring every bite is savory and satisfying.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh bell peppers and garlic instead of pre-packaged options. Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add vibrant color and nutrients to your dish.

• Cut Uniformly: Chop your vegetables and chicken into similar-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly, so you won’t end up with overcooked chicken or undercooked veggies.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure to spread everything out on the sheet pan without overcrowding. This allows for proper roasting, giving you that delightful caramelization that enhances the flavors.

• Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust cooking time based on how your oven performs.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner can be just as fun as cooking it! Here are some ideas to present this colorful dish beautifully and elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions over the dish for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness.
• Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch that enhances both texture and presentation.
• Sliced Avocado: For a creamy touch, serve slices of avocado on the side. It pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up all the flavorful sauce from the chicken. Its subtle aroma adds an extra layer of delight.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a nutritious contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil and salt, then roast until tender. Its earthy flavors provide a nice balance to this sweet dish.
• Coconut Rice: Cooked with coconut milk, this rice adds a hint of tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the Hawaiian theme.

Enjoy your meal with friends or family; this colorful dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other vegetables in my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini would all work beautifully with this dish.

How can I make my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner spicier?

If you enjoy a kick of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the marinade. This will elevate your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with a spicy twist!

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You could also serve it with a fresh green salad for extra crunch!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s not only vibrant and flavorful but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the blend of sweet pineapple and tender chicken while spending time with loved ones around the table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!