Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table, look no further than this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight – colorful, delicious, and oh-so-easy to make! The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers makes this dish a hit with everyone, whether it’s just for the family or for a casual gathering with friends.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. Everything cooks together on one pan, which means less time spent cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, the delightful flavors will transport you straight to an island paradise!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple preparation: Just marinate, toss everything on a sheet pan, and let the oven do the work!
• Family-friendly delight: Kids love the sweetness from the pineapple and colors from the veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers throughout the week – it tastes even better the next day!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or sides to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need for this vibrant dish!

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

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the fruit: Use mango or peaches instead of pineapple for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick!

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 that bite-sized chicken with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients allows all those wonderful flavors to infuse into the chicken while it marinates for about 10–15 minutes. This step not only adds depth to your dish but also helps keep the chicken juicy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While your chicken is soaking in all that goodness, spread out those gorgeous diced red and yellow bell peppers along with onion wedges and drained pineapple chunks evenly on a large sheet pan. This colorful array not only looks beautiful but also contributes amazing flavor as they roast together.

Step 3: Combine Everything on the Pan

Now comes the fun part! Place your marinated chicken pieces right over that vibrant bed of vegetables and pineapple on your sheet pan. Don’t forget to pour any leftover marinade on top – we want every last bit of flavor!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. Give everything a good stir halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Use a meat thermometer after baking; your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it needs more time, pop it back in for an extra 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once it’s done baking, let your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner rest for just a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch. Serve it warm over steamed rice or quinoa – that way you can soak up all those delicious juices!

Enjoy every bite of this tropical-inspired feast!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Making this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is not only simple but also a great way to impress your family or guests. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have more time, marinate the chicken for up to an hour. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, making it even more flavorful.

• Chop Vegetables Uniformly: Cut your vegetables into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly. This way, everything will be perfectly tender by the time the chicken is done.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and ginger instead of powdered versions. Fresh ingredients provide a vibrancy and depth that elevate your dish.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to mix in other veggies like zucchini or snap peas. This adds variety and nutrition while keeping the meal colorful and inviting.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Depending on your preference, you can modify the amount of honey or brown sugar. A little more sweetness can enhance the tropical flavors, while less can keep it savory.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

This dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks vibrant and colorful when served! Here are some creative ideas on how to present your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top just before serving. It adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

• Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both texture and appearance.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs perfectly with this dish, soaking up all the delicious sauce. Its subtle fragrance adds another layer of appeal.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in lime juice makes a refreshing side that balances the sweet flavors of the chicken.

• Roasted Broccoli: Lightly seasoned roasted broccoli adds a crunchy contrast to the soft chicken and vegetables while providing an extra nutrient boost.

• Coconut Rice: For an extra tropical twist, serve your meal over coconut rice made with coconut milk. Its creamy texture complements the sweetness of the pineapple perfectly.

Enjoy creating this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and store the leftovers for quick weeknight meals.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the cooked dish cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave until warmed through (about 2-3 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas.

How do I make a Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner in advance?

You can marinate the chicken and chop the veggies a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

Serving it over steamed rice or quinoa is ideal! You can also pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.

Can I make this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a tasty gluten-free version!

How many servings does this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner provide?

This recipe serves about four people, making it great for family dinners or meal prepping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner as much as I do! The combination of sweet pineapple, vibrant bell peppers, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to mix things up with your favorite ingredients!