Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, you’ve found it! This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is one of my all-time favorites. It brings together tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers, all roasted together for a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re rushing home after a long day or hosting friends for a cozy gathering, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the way it fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward—a total win in my book!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks on one sheet pan, so cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of flavors is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Ingredients: A wholesome mix of protein, veggies, and fruit keeps this dish nutritious.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The sweet and savory marinade elevates the chicken to new heights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are easy to find and will create a delightful meal that everyone will love.

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)
• 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
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro

Variations

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

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs for added juiciness or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change the fruit: If you’re not a fan of pineapple, mango or peaches would work beautifully too!
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to give the dish an extra kick.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that beautiful golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine your chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well coats the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes; this allows those flavors to really penetrate the meat!

Step 3: Arrange Your Veggies

While your chicken is marinating, spread out the diced red and yellow bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks evenly on a large sheet pan. This colorful medley not only looks gorgeous but also adds wonderful flavors as they roast together.

Step 4: Add Chicken to the Pan

Now it’s time to place your marinated chicken pieces over the vegetables and pineapple on your sheet pan. Don’t forget to pour any leftover marinade over everything—it adds so much flavor!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Be sure to stir halfway through cooking for even roasting. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t quite hit that mark yet, pop it back in for another 5–10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s done baking, remove the pan from the oven and let everything rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving warm over steamed rice or quinoa. Trust me; this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner will transport you straight to paradise with each bite!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfect every time!

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 30 minutes or even an hour will enhance the flavors and make the chicken even more tender and juicy.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh bell peppers and garlic when possible, as they deliver a vibrant taste that can elevate the overall flavor profile of your dish.

• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure there’s enough space between the chicken and vegetables on the sheet pan. This allows everything to roast evenly, ensuring that you get that delicious caramelization without steaming.

• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other colorful veggies like zucchini or snap peas. They not only add more nutrition but also introduce different textures and flavors to the dish.

• Save Leftovers for Lunch: This recipe makes great leftovers! Store any extra in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have a tasty lunch ready for the next day.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Presenting your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to help showcase this vibrant meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the dish for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its subtle fragrance pairs perfectly with this dish, allowing the Hawaiian flavors to shine through.
• Quinoa Salad: Toss cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing side that’s packed with protein.
• Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli balances nicely with the sweet elements of this dish, providing both flavor and nutrition.
• Coconut Rice: For an extra tropical twist, serve your meal over coconut rice made by cooking rice in coconut milk. It complements the Hawaiian theme wonderfully!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll be able to impress your family or guests while enjoying this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is not only a delightful meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Let the chicken and veggies cool completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for optimal freshness.
• To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before warming up.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired portion in a baking dish, covering with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use frozen chicken for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture during baking.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner more flavorful?

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer than 10–15 minutes. You can also add spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you enjoy some heat!

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a side salad or some grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I customize the vegetables in Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen while keeping things simple and healthy. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations of this recipe. Happy cooking!