Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as vibrant as it is easy to make, then you’re in for a treat with this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! This recipe brings together tender chicken breast, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers, all marinated in a savory-sweet sauce. It’s not only delightful but also makes for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a busy night or prepping for a small gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

I adore this recipe because it captures the essence of Hawaiian flavors while being incredibly simple. Just chop, marinate, and roast—all on one pan! It’s perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet pineapple and colorful veggies. It’s a hit at the dinner table!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken earlier in the day for even more flavor come dinnertime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner!

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, for garnish

Variations

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

• Swap the protein: Use tofu or shrimp instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Change up the veggies: Add snap peas, carrots, or zucchini for extra color and crunch.
• Add some spice: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or sriracha if you like a kick!
• Experiment with grains: Serve over quinoa, farro, or brown rice for added texture.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures that everything cooks evenly and gives you those lovely caramelized edges.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

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. Mix thoroughly so every piece is coated well. Allow it to marinate for 10–15 minutes; this step adds incredible depth of flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While your chicken marinates, spread out your diced bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks on a large sheet pan. This colorful mix not only looks great but also adds wonderful texture to the dish.

Step 4: Assemble Everything

Place the marinated chicken pieces over your vegetables and pineapple on the sheet pan. Don’t forget to pour any leftover marinade on top—this will enhance the flavor even more while baking!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Be sure to stir halfway through so everything cooks evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it needs more time, just pop it back in for another 5–10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

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

Enjoy making this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Creating a delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a breeze with just a few insider tips to elevate your dish even further!

• Marinate Longer: If time allows, let the chicken marinate for up to an hour. This will infuse more flavor into the meat, making it even juicier and more delicious.

• Use Fresh Produce: Whenever possible, opt for fresh bell peppers and onions instead of frozen ones. Fresh vegetables retain their texture and flavor better during roasting, adding vibrancy to your dish.

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or snap peas. This not only adds variety but also enhances the nutritional profile of your meal.

• Add Heat: For those who enjoy a little spice, toss in some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes with the vegetables. This adds a delightful kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking helps redistribute juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

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

Garnishes

• Fresh lime wedges: A squeeze of lime adds a zesty brightness that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a mild onion flavor and an appealing pop of color.
• Toasted sesame seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds brings an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This fragrant rice pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a hint of lemon can add a light contrast to your hearty main dish.
• Grilled asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus gives a nice charred flavor while complementing the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Coconut rice: For an extra tropical twist, serve your chicken over creamy coconut rice. The subtle coconut flavor harmonizes beautifully with Hawaiian-inspired dishes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner will not only be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy this easy meal with family or friends for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

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.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely prior to freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas. Just ensure they have similar cooking times for even roasting.

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

You can add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.

Is the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with lean protein from chicken and plenty of colorful veggies, making it a nutritious option that is both satisfying and flavorful.

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

Serving it over steamed rice or quinoa is a great choice! You can also pair it with a fresh salad for added crunch and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re cooking for family or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your thoughts on how it turned out!