Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors right to your dinner table. This one-pan meal combines juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet pineapple, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The ease of preparation and the bold taste make this recipe a standout choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, dinner can be on the table in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a delicious balance that everyone will love.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
- Healthy Meal Option: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies or adjust seasonings based on what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather our tools. Having the right equipment makes creating this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan even easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a spacious area for roasting everything evenly in one layer.
- Mixing bowl: Keeps your chicken and veggies contained while mixing them with the sauce.
- Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients for the sauce are well combined for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow or orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice, from the can
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan cooks evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine:
The cubed chicken
The chopped bell peppers
The onion wedges
The pineapple chunks
Toss everything together gently to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Soy sauce
2. Brown sugar
3. Pineapple juice
4. Cornstarch
5. Garlic powder
6. Ginger
7. Red pepper flakes (if using)
Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Spread on Sheet Pan
Spread this mixture in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd it; this helps everything roast properly.
Step 6: Bake
Roast in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan with rice or noodles as a complete meal!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Serving Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is simple and delightful. The colorful mix of chicken, vegetables, and pineapple creates a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Fresh Rice
- White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
- Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
In Tacos
- Soft Tortillas: Load the chicken mixture into soft tortillas for a fun and portable meal.
- Crunchy Taco Shells: Use crunchy shells for added texture and crunch.
Over Greens
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens for a light and fresh option.
- Spinach Salad: Pair the warm chicken with baby spinach for a nutrient-packed dish.
As Meal Prep
- Containers: Divide the chicken and veggies into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Store portions in the freezer for quick meals on busy days.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
To ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will enhance flavor and texture.
- Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least an hour before cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread everything out evenly on the sheet pan to allow proper roasting.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Garnish Before Serving: Add fresh cilantro or green onions on top just before serving for extra freshness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds vibrant color and crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers complements the flavors well.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with the savory chicken dish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Perfectly charred corn adds a fun touch to your meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up all that delicious sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Breadsticks: For those who love bread, serve warm garlic breadsticks alongside this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many home cooks run into a few common pitfalls when preparing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure the chicken and veggies cook evenly.
- Incorrectly Cutting Ingredients: If the chicken and vegetables are not cut into even pieces, they will cook at different rates. Aim for uniform sizes for consistent results.
- Overcrowding the Sheet Pan: Packing too much on one pan can steam instead of roast your food. Spread everything in a single layer for that perfect roasted texture.
- Ignoring Marination Time: While this recipe does not require long marination, letting the chicken sit in the sauce for a bit enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step if you have time!
- Using Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned: Fresh pineapple can change the flavor profile of the dish significantly. Stick with canned for that sweet, tangy taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed.
- Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan.
Can I use other proteins in Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist while keeping it delicious!
What should I serve with my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa, adding a healthy base to soak up all those flavors.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative like tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is not just tasty; it’s also flexible and easy to make. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices. Give this delightful dish a try; your family will love it!
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant and delicious one-pan meal that transports your taste buds to a tropical paradise. This delightful dish features tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet pineapple, all coated in a flavorful sauce that balances savory and sweet perfectly. Ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this recipe promises minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment. Simply roast everything together for a wholesome dinner that the whole family will love. Serve it over rice or in tacos for an extra twist!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1 large yellow or orange bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks
- For the sauce: soy sauce
- brown sugar
- pineapple juice
- cornstarch
- garlic powder
- ginger
- olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken, bell peppers, onion wedges, and pineapple chunks.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture; toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and veggies are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
