Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Picture this: dinner is in the oven, and all it took was one pan, a handful of everyday ingredients, and the kind of bold, tropical flavor that instantly brightens your mood. This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe pulls everything together with ease, offering a meal that’s not only full of flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare. It’s the kind of dish that makes dinner feel rewarding without all the fuss. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a mini vacation, with tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory teriyaki all roasted to perfection. 

What makes this dish so special? It’s simple. It’s vibrant. And most importantly, it’s a meal the whole family can enjoy without the stress of complicated prep or cleanup. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweet and savory, reminding you that great meals don’t have to be hard to make.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and make something everyone will love, let’s dive into this easy-to-make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe. You’re only one pan away from a deliciously satisfying dinner that’ll leave you smiling.

1.Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a recipe that’s both quick and full of flavor, and this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a perfect choice when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Here’s why it’s going to become a go-to in your home:

One pan, less mess:

No piles of dirty dishes to deal with. Just toss everything on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven.

Sweet and savory flavor:

Juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a sticky glaze come together for a tropical-inspired dinner that hits all the right notes.

Family-friendly:

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the bold, comforting flavors.

Great for busy nights:

With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this is a stress-free meal you can throw together even after a long day.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this sheet pan meal brings warmth, ease, and flavor to the table, all in one recipe.

2.Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe so enjoyable is how it uses simple, everyday ingredients to create something truly special. Everything works together to bring out that perfect sweet and savory balance. Let’s get everything ready before we start cooking, here’s your ingredient list:

  • 900g of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, or if you prefer, swap them out for an equal amount of chicken breasts (900g).
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, either orange or yellow, cut into thin slices.
  • A small red onion, cut into thick wedges
  • About 3 to 4 cups (roughly 500g) of diced fresh pineapple
  • 2 spoons of pineapple juice to add a refreshing, tropical zest.
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil, optionally added to enhance moisture and richness.
  • 80ml light soy sauce (low-sodium variety recommended)
  • 60ml honey to bring natural sweetness and balance
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, which brings a warm and flavorful depth to the dish.
  • A small dash (around ¼ teaspoon) of chili flakes, optional for a mild kick of heat.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to personal taste
  • 60ml ketchup, for a rich, tangy-sweet marinade layer
  • 15 to 30 ml of rice vinegar, adjusted to your preference to balance out the sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder, used to give the sauce a thicker, more velvety texture.
  • Steamed rice or cooked quinoa, for serving (optional but recommended)

Each item brings its own charm, color from the peppers, sweetness from the pineapple, and a sticky glaze that ties it all together. And the best part?  Chances are, you’ve already got most of these ingredients tucked away in your pantry.

3.How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light coat of cooking spray to keep things from sticking.

Prep the Ingredients

Cut 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts) into small, even pieces. Slice one red and one green bell pepper into thin strips. Slice half of a red onion into thin pieces and add 1 cup of pineapple chunks, either fresh or canned.

Mix the Marinade

Combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey (or brown sugar), 1 minced garlic clove, and a dash of lime juice (optional). After evenly coating the chicken and vegetables with the marinade, allow them to sit for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors penetrate the ingredients, enhancing the overall taste and making each bite more savory.

Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place the marinated chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between them for even cooking.

Bake to Perfection

Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning or stirring midway, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables begin to brown slightly.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish cool slightly, then serve over rice, quinoa, or in warm tortillas for a tropical meal.

4.Tips for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

To make sure your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe turns out just right, here are a few helpful tips:

For even cooking:

make sure to chop your chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces. This way, everything will cook at the same pace, ensuring that no ingredients are undercooked or overcooked.

Marinate Well:

Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor. For a deeper taste, marinate it overnight.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:

Spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer with some space between them. This allows them to roast evenly and get a little crispiness on the edges.

Use Fresh Ingredients:

Fresh pineapple and vibrant bell peppers really bring out the tropical flavor, but canned options work well too if you’re in a pinch.

For a fresh, vibrant touch:

finish off your dish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving. It’ll really brighten up the flavors.

5.Storage and Reheating

Once the chicken and veggies have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they’ll stay fresh

6.FAQs

What goes with Hawaiian chicken?

Hawaiian chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or even a refreshing pineapple slaw for a tropical touch. You can also add roasted veggies or a side of Hawaiian rolls to round out the meal.

Where did Hawaiian chicken originate?

Hawaiian chicken reflects the blend of American and Asian flavors commonly found in Hawaiian cuisine, creating a unique and tasty fusion. While it’s not a traditional Hawaiian dish, it reflects the island’s love for sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Is Hawaiian food similar to Chinese food?

While both cuisines share sweet and savory elements, Hawaiian food has a unique blend of influences from Polynesian, American, and Asian cooking. Hawaiian food often incorporates tropical fruits, fish, and bold spices.

What do Hawaiians call chicken?

In Hawaii, chicken is often referred to as “moa.” It’s a staple in many dishes, ranging from grilled to braised, and is an essential part of the local cuisine.

What kind of chicken is in Hawaii?

Hawaiians use a variety of chicken cuts, but the most common are boneless skinless thighs or breasts. The tropical climate makes grilled and roasted chicken especially popular.

What’s a good Hawaiian dish?

A delicious Hawaiian dish that complements your chicken is Loco Moco. This hearty meal features a bed of rice topped with a fried egg, a beef patty, and savory brown gravy, offering a comforting and flavorful side.

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