Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is just what you need! This dish brings together tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Every bite is a little taste of the islands, making it perfect for family gatherings or simply to brighten up a busy weeknight meal.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering big flavors. It’s one of those meals that feels special but requires minimal effort. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pan dinner? Less cleanup means more time to enjoy with your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time. Perfect for those busy evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet pineapple and colorful veggies. It’s a great way to sneak in some nutrition!
• One-Pan Wonder: All ingredients cook together on one sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of savory soy sauce and sweet honey creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or quinoa, or even enjoy it as is for a lighter option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful meal! You probably have many of these items in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! If you want to switch things up or use what you have on hand, here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken thighs or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli florets or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Change the fruit: Swap pineapple for mango or peaches when they’re in season for a delicious twist.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you like a little heat!

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before getting started. In a large bowl, combine your chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything well ensures every piece of chicken gets coated in that fabulous marinade. Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes—this step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While your chicken marinates, spread out the diced red and yellow bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks evenly on a large sheet pan. These colorful veggies not only add nutrition but also bring brightness to your dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Now it’s time to place your marinated chicken on top of those vibrant vegetables and pineapple on the sheet pan. Pour any leftover marinade over everything; this will keep your dish juicy while roasting.

Step 4: Bake It Up!

Bake your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. Give everything a gentle stir halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it needs more time, pop it back in for an additional 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once it’s done baking, remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving—it adds such a lovely touch! Serve warm over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up all those delightful flavors.

Enjoy every bite of this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s bound to become a favorite at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Creating a delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is all about maximizing flavor and ensuring a stress-free cooking experience. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) intensifies the flavors, making each bite more delicious.

• Cut Uniformly: Ensure that your chicken and vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. This way, everything will roast perfectly without any overcooked or undercooked pieces.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and produce. Fresh ingredients add vibrant flavors and textures that enhance the overall dish.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other colorful veggies like zucchini or snap peas. Not only do they bring additional nutrients, but they also add variety and crunch to the dish.

• Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature; check your chicken a few minutes early to avoid overcooking. This ensures juicy, tender chicken every time!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Serving this vibrant dish can be just as fun as preparing it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can make this meal feel extra special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch and a burst of color.
• Sesame Seeds: A light shower of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and enhances the visual appeal.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side; a squeeze of lime adds a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its delicate aroma pairs beautifully with the sweet-savory flavors of the chicken, providing a fluffy base for your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette brings freshness and complements the richness of the main dish.
• Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli balances out the sweetness of the chicken and pineapple while adding more nutrients to your meal.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm roasted chicken.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dining experience that highlights your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to store and extend the life of your tasty dish.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• After cooling, portion the chicken and vegetables into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and label with the date.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious meal!

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just assemble everything on the sheet pan when you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or quinoa, which soak up all that flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with a simple side salad for extra crunch.

How long does it take to cook Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

Cooking this dish takes about 25–30 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C), plus an additional 10-15 minutes if needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like broccoli or snap peas. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on their size and type.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this colorful and vibrant Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s not only quick and easy but also brings a burst of flavor that will brighten your weeknight dinners. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—happy cooking!