Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that brings a taste of the tropics to your table, let me introduce you to my beloved Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. This recipe is not just easy to make; it’s packed with vibrant flavors that will make your family smile. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple the preparation is—everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and mixing, you can get this meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet pineapple and colorful veggies make it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less time cleaning up means more time enjoying your meal and family.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to create such a flavorful dish!

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
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
• Change up the veggies: Add in some broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños if you like a little heat with your sweet.
• Try different fruits: Mango or even peaches would add a lovely twist to this dish!

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First things first: preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything together allows those flavors to really infuse into the chicken. Let it marinate for about 10–15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While your chicken is soaking in all that goodness, spread out the bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks evenly on a large sheet pan. This colorful array not only looks great but also adds wonderful texture and sweetness to the dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place the marinated chicken pieces over the vegetables and pineapple on your sheet pan. Don’t forget to pour any leftover marinade on top—the more flavor, the better!

Step 4: Bake

Pop the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure everything bakes evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t quite gotten there yet, give it an extra 5–10 minutes in the oven.

Step 5: Serve

Once done baking, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm over steamed rice or quinoa so you can soak up all those delicious flavors!

Enjoy making this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Creating the perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here’s how to ensure your meal turns out delicious every time.

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have extra time, marinating the chicken for an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavors significantly, making each bite even more succulent.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh bell peppers and garlic rather than frozen or jarred. Fresh produce adds vibrant colors and enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.

• Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of honey or brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to suit your family’s taste.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or carrots. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds variety and texture to the dish.

• Check Chicken Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. This small step makes sure you serve perfectly cooked chicken every time!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner can be just as fun as preparing it! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this colorful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish right before serving for an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch that elevates the overall presentation.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the sweet and savory sauce from the chicken, making every bite satisfying.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken dish while adding extra nutrients.
• Grilled Asparagus: The slightly charred flavor of grilled asparagus pairs wonderfully with this meal and adds a nice crunch that balances the softness of the chicken and pineapple.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a complementary sweetness and a hearty side that rounds out this tropical-inspired dinner perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set for an enjoyable cooking experience that will impress your family or guests. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is perfect for meal prep! You can save time during busy weekdays by preparing it in advance or storing leftovers for quick, nutritious meals.

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

• Place cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What is a Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

A Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a vibrant and easy meal featuring marinated chicken breast, pineapple, and colorful vegetables all roasted on one pan. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners!

Can I customize the vegetables in my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

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

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

To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into your marinade before baking!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner as much as I do! It’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!