Name: Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 red onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

There's nothing quite like the vibrant, tropical flavors of Hawaiian Chicken to transport your taste buds straight to the islands. This simple sheet pan dinner combines tender, juicy chicken with sweet pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and a tangy, homemade Hawaiian-style sauce. The best part? Everything comes together on one pan for easy prep and even easier cleanup!

I discovered this recipe while searching for a way to bring some sunshine into our cold, rainy evenings. Since then, it’s become a favorite go-to meal in our household, especially on busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Let’s dive into the details so you can experience the magic for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Get ready to add a touch of island magic to your weekly dinner rotation. This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is more than just a meal; it's a burst of sunshine on your dinner plate!

First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With everything cooked together on one sheet pan, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time savoring your delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something special but don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen for hours.

The combination of sweet and savory flavors is truly irresistible. The caramelized pineapple pairs beautifully with the marinated chicken and bell peppers, creating a mouthwatering contrast that will have you going back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can mix and match your favorite veggies or even swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit different dietary preferences. It’s a fantastic option whether you're cooking for picky eaters or adventurous palates.

Plus, it’s healthy and balanced. Packed with lean protein, vitamin-rich vegetables, and a pop of natural sweetness from the pineapple, it’s a meal you can feel great about serving to your family.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe lies in its fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each component brings something unique to the table, contributing to a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor. They stay tender during roasting and are less prone to drying out compared to chicken breasts. If you prefer chicken breasts, just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is the star of this dish, adding a burst of natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. If you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple chunks will work too, but fresh is best for that juicy, tropical flavor.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a vibrant and colorful dish. They add a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy sauce perfectly. Feel free to substitute or add other veggies like broccoli or zucchini if desired.
Soy Sauce and Honey: These form the base of the marinade, giving the chicken a deliciously savory and slightly sweet flavor. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you want to reduce the overall salt content of the dish.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and minced garlic add depth and a touch of heat to the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, ground ginger and garlic powder can be substituted, but fresh will give you the most robust flavor.

No special equipment is needed, just a sturdy sheet pan and some basic kitchen tools. A good quality baking sheet will ensure even cooking and caramelization, making all the difference.

How To Make This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Creating this flavorful Hawaiian-inspired dish is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get that perfect, caramelized finish on your chicken and veggies.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and placing them in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, fresh ginger, and minced garlic to make the marinade. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, reserving the rest for later. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to soak in all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables and Pineapple While the chicken is marinating, cut your bell peppers into strips and dice the pineapple into chunks. Spread the vegetables and pineapple evenly on a large baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space for everything to caramelize nicely. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the veggies and toss to coat.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on the sheet pan alongside the vegetables and pineapple. Pour the reserved marinade over everything, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the edges of the pineapple are caramelized.

Step 4: Broil for Extra Caramelization For an extra burst of flavor, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This step will give the chicken and pineapple a beautiful, golden-brown finish. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.

The total time from start to finish is about 35 minutes, making this a quick yet impressive meal. The smell alone will have everyone running to the dinner table!

Storage Options

Leftovers are a breeze to store and taste just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to keep your Hawaiian Chicken fresh and flavorful:

Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled chicken and veggies to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as they sit, making for even more delicious leftovers.
Freeze: You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or on the stovetop.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The microwave works too, but the chicken may lose some of its caramelized texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Swap the Protein: Not a fan of chicken? This recipe works beautifully with shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in extra vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced carrots, or snap peas. The more color and variety, the better!
Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the marinade. The sweet and spicy combination is irresistible.
Use Coconut Aminos: For a gluten-free version, swap out the soy sauce for coconut aminos. It’s a great alternative that’s slightly sweeter and just as flavorful.
Serve It Over Rice: To make this a complete meal, serve the Hawaiian Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or coconut rice. The fluffy grains soak up all the delicious sauce, making each bite extra satisfying.

Experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients, and don’t be afraid to get creative. This recipe is as flexible as it is tasty – the possibilities are endless!