Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

If you love vibrant flavors and fuss-free dinners, this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is going to brighten your weeknight meals in the best way possible. Imagine juicy, tender chicken pieces mingling with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, all coated in a luscious, tangy sauce with just the perfect hint of spice. In about 30 minutes, this recipe transforms your oven into a flavor-packed paradise, delivering a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a fast family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but pack an amazing punch together, creating a balance of sweetness, savoriness, and a little kick. Each element brings something special to the table—whether it’s the juicy chicken, the caramelized pineapple, or the vibrant peppers adding color and crunch.

• 1.5-2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast diced: The lean protein base that soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
• 1 red onion diced into larger pieces: Adds a slight sweetness and a gentle bite when roasted.
• 1 red bell pepper diced into larger pieces: Brings vibrant color and a fresh, crunchy texture.
• 1 orange bell pepper diced into larger pieces: Offers beautiful color contrast and a mellow sweetness.
• 20 ounces pineapple chunks, save the juice: The star ingredient for that tropical sweetness and caramelized goodness.
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice from the can: Intensifies the pineapple flavor in the sauce.
• 1/3 cup soy sauce: Adds savory depth and umami balance.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for a glossy, clingy finish.
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens and helps create that irresistible caramelization.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Brings a flavorful punch of garlic with just enough saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat to keep things exciting without overpowering.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking. While that’s heating up, dice your chicken, onion, and bell peppers into large, bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to drain your pineapple chunks, but keep that juice handy — it’s key for the sauce!

Step 2: Whip Up the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes. This sauce is the heart of the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe, balancing sweet, salty, and spicy flavors with a silky texture thanks to the cornstarch.

Step 3: Toss the Chicken and Veggies

Place the diced chicken, onion, and bell peppers in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over everything and stir thoroughly so every piece is beautifully coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Spread the coated chicken and veggies evenly across your prepared baking sheet. Place it in the oven for 10 minutes. After the initial bake, pull the sheet pan out and give everything a good toss to keep it cooking evenly and prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Pineapple and Finish Cooking

Scatter the pineapple chunks on the sheet pan and pop it back into the oven. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the edges of your veggies and pineapple caramelize just right. This last step gives you that wonderful sweet and savory combo that flames your taste buds.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Garnishes

Want to take this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe up a notch? Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. A light drizzle of toasted sesame oil or a handful of toasted sesame seeds also add a lovely nutty aroma that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

This sheet pan wonder shines best paired with simple sides like steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up all the wonderful sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works beautifully as well. You could also serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter balance.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving company or just want to have fun, try placing the Hawaiian Chicken on a bed of coconut rice and garnish with pineapple leaves or thin slices of fresh pineapple. For a party vibe, serve in small bowls or even lettuce cups for easy handheld bites. The colorful bell peppers and pineapple make for a stunning presentation all on their own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers—which is likely—they keep really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe also freezes nicely. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the dish’s juicy texture and vibrant flavors.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this dish is gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to keep the chicken tender and the veggies just right. Alternatively, a quick stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat works well if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you want extra juiciness and richness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may need a few minutes longer to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, this recipe uses soy sauce, which often contains gluten. You can make it gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

For those who like a real kick, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce. It’s a fantastic way to customize the heat level without losing the sweet and savory balance.

What can I substitute for pineapple if I don’t have any?

Pineapple gives this dish its signature tropical sweetness and texture, so it’s best not to omit it entirely. However, mango chunks or even diced peaches might work in a pinch, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! You can easily reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to make it more kid-friendly. The natural sweetness from the pineapple is usually a big hit with little ones.

Final Thoughts

Making the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine into your kitchen. It’s incredibly straightforward yet delivers complex, delightful flavors that make every meal feel special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a vibrant, joyful way to enjoy the magic of sweet and savory in a single, effortless pan. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a dinner rotation staple!

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