Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Delicious and satisfying, Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken brings a tropical twist to your dinner table. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with tender chicken, creating a flavor explosion that rivals any takeout. It’s easy to prepare and bake, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to bake while you relax.
• Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and tangy pineapple sauce elevates the chicken, making every bite delightful.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own.
• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, this recipe offers a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Using the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken evenly before baking. A good skillet ensures a perfect crust.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish allows ample space for the chicken and sauce to cook thoroughly.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly; having multiple sizes helps in organization.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing sauces without lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Delicious chicken that gets breaded and baked in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. It bakes to perfection and is so much better than takeout!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups cornstarch
• 3 beaten eggs
• ¼ cup canola oil

For the Sauce

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 chopped red pepper
• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained

How to Make Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, cut 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating

In one bowl, place 1 ½ cups of cornstarch. In another bowl, beat 3 eggs. Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the cornstarch first, then coat it in the egg mixture.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Heat ¼ cup of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded chicken until browned on all sides. Once done, transfer the browned chicken into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together:
1 cup pineapple juice,
½ cup brown sugar,
⅓ cup soy sauce,
1 teaspoon minced garlic,
and ½ tablespoon cornstarch.
Add in 1 chopped red pepper and drain one can (20 ounces) of pineapple tidbits before adding them as well.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the baking dish. Bake for one hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even coating in that delicious sauce.

With these steps completed, you’ll have a mouthwatering Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, serving suggestions can enhance the experience.

With Rice

• White Rice: Fluffy white rice soaks up the sauce perfectly.
• Fried Rice: A savory fried rice adds texture and flavor contrast.
• Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice complements the dish’s tropical notes.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a pop of color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
• Grilled Asparagus: The charred taste provides a lovely balance to the sweetness.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the chicken.

In Tacos

• Soft Tacos: Shred the chicken and serve in soft tortillas with cabbage slaw.
• Crunchy Taco Shells: For a fun twist, use crunchy shells for added texture.

On Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the chicken atop fresh greens with a citrus vinaigrette.
• Pineapple Salsa Salad: Combine with pineapple salsa for an extra burst of flavor.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ripe pineapple add vibrant flavors to your dish.
• Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the chicken in oil enhances its flavor and texture before baking.
• Stir Regularly: Make sure to stir the chicken every 15 minutes while baking for even coating in sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer thicker sauce, let it simmer on the stove before pouring it over chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the sweetness.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides protein and complements the dish beautifully.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the tropical theme of this recipe.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can cut through the richness of the chicken.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, keep an eye out for common mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before breading.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets browned properly.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking for less than the recommended time may leave the chicken undercooked. Stick to the full hour for best results.
• Not stirring during baking: Failing to stir the chicken every 15 minutes could result in uneven sauce coverage. Make sure to turn the chicken regularly for full flavor absorption.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap sauces or juices can compromise taste. Opt for high-quality pineapple juice and soy sauce for a richer flavor.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving baked chicken out too long can lead to spoilage. Store leftovers promptly to enjoy them later.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store leftover Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container.
• Item: Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

• Item: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Item: It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat chicken for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel, reheating in short bursts of 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used but will require a longer cooking time compared to boneless skinless breasts.

What can I serve with Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?

Pair it with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that complements its sweet flavors.

How do I make Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken healthier?

You can reduce sugar by using less brown sugar or substituting with honey. Also, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs.

Can I make Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it before baking. Just add extra baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! Feel free to add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish while keeping its sweet essence.

Final Thoughts

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. This dish brings joy and flavor that’s sure to impress your family and friends—give it a try!