Bring the flavors of the tropics straight to your kitchen with this vibrant and delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. Sweet, tangy, and full of fresh ingredients, this dish is as visually stunning as it is mouthwatering. Plus, it all comes together on one sheet pan, making it the ultimate fuss-free dinner.
I first made this recipe on a whim after a vacation to Hawaii left me craving its iconic sweet-and-savory dishes. Now, it’s a household favorite for its bold flavors and effortless cleanup. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe
This sheet pan recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. Here’s why it’s destined to become a new favorite:
First, it’s bursting with tropical flavors. Juicy chunks of pineapple, tender chicken, and colorful veggies are coated in a sweet and tangy glaze that’s simply irresistible. Every bite is a flavor-packed escape to the islands!
Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, you’ll save time on prep and cleanup without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
This recipe is also nutritious and versatile. Packed with protein, veggies, and fresh fruit, it’s a complete meal on its own. You can also tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Finally, it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious leftovers that reheat beautifully for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Ready to add some tropical flair to your dinner routine? Let’s start with the ingredients.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness, or go with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Fresh Pineapple: Sweet and tangy pineapple is the star of this dish, adding bursts of flavor and caramelizing beautifully in the oven. While canned pineapple works in a pinch, fresh is highly recommended.
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers not only bring a pop of color but also add a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the glaze.
- Red Onion: This adds a mild, savory bite that balances the sweetness of the dish.
- Soy Sauce and Honey: These form the base of the glaze, creating a perfect harmony of salty and sweet flavors. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos.
- Ginger and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and an irresistible tropical aroma.
- Rice Vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens the glaze and ties all the flavors together.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice elevate the dish with extra flavor and flair.
You’ll also need a large sheet pan and parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
How To Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe
This recipe is as easy as chop, toss, and bake. Here’s how to make it:
- Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Dice the chicken, chop the pineapple into chunks, and slice the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Taste and adjust the balance of sweet and savory to your liking.
- Assemble the Sheet Pan: Spread the chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onions evenly across the sheet pan. Drizzle the glaze over everything and toss to coat. Arrange the ingredients in a single layer for even cooking.
- Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the vegetables are tender.
- Caramelize (Optional): For extra caramelization, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice, and serve hot. Pair with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Storage Options
This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is perfect for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Pineapple may lose some of its texture when thawed but will still taste delicious.
When reheating, warm the dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to fit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. Toss them in the glaze and roast with the veggies for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Tropical Twist: Include mango or papaya chunks for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and serve with a side of roasted cauliflower or a fresh green salad.
- Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try fresh parsley or basil as a garnish.
This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. It’s easy to make, easy to clean up, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight meal or a tropical-themed gathering, this dish is sure to transport you to paradise with every bite. 🌴🍍
PrintHawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe combines juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and colorful veggies for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Place chicken thighs, pineapple, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini on the sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and the prepared sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture into a single layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Add a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sheet Pan
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with veggies
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 750mg
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