Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a meal that brightens your dinner table and is a breeze to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! My Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is an absolute favorite in my home. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and packed with wholesome goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish combines tender chicken breast with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, all roasted together in one pan. It’s not only a hit with the family but also great for gatherings with friends. You’ll find yourself making this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Just marinate, toss everything on a sheet pan, and let the oven do the work!
• Family-friendly appeal: The sweetness of pineapple and bell peppers makes this dish a winner for both kids and adults.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, it’s a nutritious choice too!
• Make-ahead convenience: Marinate the chicken in advance for an even quicker dinner on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner so special. You likely have many of these items on hand already!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the fruit: Mango or peaches would add a delightful twist to this dish.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to give it a bit of heat.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely roasted flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine your chicken pieces with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. Letting it marinate for about 10–15 minutes allows all those flavors to infuse into the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Veggies

Spread out your diced red and yellow bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks evenly on your sheet pan. This colorful mix not only looks beautiful but also adds amazing flavors as they roast together.

Step 4: Combine Everything on the Sheet Pan

Place the marinated chicken pieces over the vegetables and pour any leftover marinade on top. This helps keep everything moist while adding even more flavor as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure everything roasts evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until done.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, let your delicious creation rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro. Serve warm over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up that tasty sauce. Enjoy every bite of your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Cooking is all about enjoying the process and perfecting your skills, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner turns out deliciously every time!

• Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken for up to an hour. This allows the seasonings to penetrate deeper, making each bite more flavorful.

• Mix Up Your Veggies: Feel free to add other colorful vegetables like zucchini or carrots. They not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also add extra nutrients and flavor.

• Use Fresh Pineapple: If you have fresh pineapple on hand, it can elevate the dish’s sweetness and texture compared to canned. Just be sure to cut it into similar-sized chunks as the chicken for even cooking.

• Check for Doneness: While a meat thermometer is essential for checking chicken doneness, remember that the color should also be a guide; the chicken should be white throughout with no pink remaining.

• Make Extra Sauce: If you love a saucier dish, double the marinade ingredients. This way, you’ll have plenty of sauce to drizzle over your rice or quinoa!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner in style can make it all the more enjoyable! Here are some ideas on how to present this vibrant dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and enhances the flavors with its bright taste.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and a touch of nuttiness that complements the dish nicely.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: Classic steamed rice is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You could use jasmine or basmati for added fragrance.
• Quinoa: A nutritious alternative to rice, quinoa adds protein and has a lovely nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and veggies.
• Crisp Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the meal perfectly and adds freshness.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the tropical flavors of the dish while providing an extra dose of fiber and vitamins.

Enjoy preparing and serving this delightful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have healthy meals ready to go during the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Microwave on medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner?

You can serve this dish over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh side salad or roasted vegetables also pairs wonderfully!

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner healthier?

To make it even healthier, use low-sodium soy sauce and add more colorful veggies like broccoli or snap peas. You can also swap honey for a natural sweetener like maple syrup.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with tofu or shrimp as alternatives if you’re looking for a different protein source.

How long does Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner as I am! It’s not just a meal; it’s a colorful celebration of flavors that brings a taste of paradise right to your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations! Happy cooking!