Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet and savory flavor combination in a Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. With juicy pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and tender chicken, this meal is as vibrant as a Hawaiian sunset. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

I first discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick yet delicious to lift my spirits. The tropical flavors transported my family to an island paradise, and now, it’s a regular part of our meal rotation. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners when you crave something exciting and easy.

First, there’s the sheer convenience. With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, you can say goodbye to a sink full of dishes. Just chop, season, and let the oven work its magic. It's ideal for nights when you need to get dinner on the table without breaking a sweat.

Then, there’s the irresistible flavor. Sweet pineapple caramelizes beautifully in the oven, mingling with the savory, sticky glaze that coats the chicken. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy creates an unforgettable taste sensation.

It’s also super versatile. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or experimenting with different ingredients, this recipe is endlessly customizable. You can swap out veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, making it as flexible as it is delicious.

Finally, this meal is packed with color and nutrition. Bright bell peppers, red onions, and juicy chicken thighs provide a burst of vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it both a feast for the eyes and a wholesome choice.

Ready to turn dinner into a tropical feast? Let’s talk about what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe lies in its blend of simple, bold ingredients. Let’s break down each component so you know exactly why it’s included.

• Chicken Thighs: I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay tender and juicy throughout cooking. They’re also incredibly forgiving and hard to overcook, making them perfect for sheet pan meals. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on them to avoid dryness.
• Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned pineapple both work beautifully in this dish. If you’re using canned, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid. As the pineapple roasts, it releases juices that create a mouthwatering caramelized effect.
• Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers for a rainbow of color and flavor. Their natural sweetness complements the tangy glaze and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Red Onion: Thin wedges of red onion add a hint of sharpness that balances the sweet and savory elements. They also become beautifully tender in the oven, almost melting into the sauce.
• Hawaiian Sauce: The sauce is a simple but delicious blend of soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. You’ll get a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors. If you like heat, a dash of Sriracha or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

Special Equipment

All you need for this recipe is a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup. A sharp knife for chopping and a mixing bowl for the sauce complete the setup. Now, let's get cooking!

How To Make This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Creating this flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan dinner couldn’t be simpler. Follow these steps for a no-fuss, delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare your ingredients. Chop your bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, and cut the red onion into thin wedges. If you’re using fresh pineapple, make sure to core and cube it.

Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Whisk everything together until smooth. Add your chicken thighs to the bowl, and toss to coat them evenly in the flavorful marinade.

Now, spread the chicken thighs out on your prepared sheet pan, leaving a little space between each piece. Scatter the bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple chunks around the chicken, making sure everything is spread out in an even layer.

Drizzle any leftover sauce over the vegetables and pineapple. This helps infuse every bite with that sweet-savory glaze. Pop the pan into the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. For a caramelized finish, broil everything for an extra 2-3 minutes.

Total time? Just around 30 minutes from start to finish. The result is a vibrant, mouthwatering meal that’s sure to brighten up any evening.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to store them to keep everything tasting fresh.

• Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled Hawaiian Chicken and veggies to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze: You can also freeze this meal for up to 3 months. To do so, let everything cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
• Meal Prep Tip: This recipe makes a fantastic meal prep option. Divide into portions and store for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The flavors only get better as they sit!

Reheating is simple. Just pop it in the microwave or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, and you’re good to go.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Protein Swap: Don’t have chicken thighs? Use chicken breasts, shrimp, or even tofu. If using shrimp, reduce the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
• Vegetable Variations: Mix and match your favorite veggies. Broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas would all be delicious additions. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may require less time in the oven.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free. The flavors will be just as bold and satisfying.
• Low-Sugar Version: If you’re watching your sugar intake, replace the honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or omit it entirely. The natural sweetness of the pineapple will still shine through.
• Make It Spicy: Love some heat? Add Sriracha, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the sauce. It gives the dish a fiery kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet pineapple.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. The tropical flavors are so forgiving, they’ll work well with just about anything you throw in. Enjoy your taste of the islands, right from the comfort of your home

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