Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the tropics to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and sweet pineapple, making it perfect for family meals or casual gatherings. The easy preparation and one-pan cooking method save time while delivering a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy a taste of Hawaii with this colorful and flavorful dish that’s suitable for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in about an hour.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together on a single sheet pan.
- Flavorful and Healthy: The combination of chicken, veggies, and pineapple creates a tasty dish packed with nutrients.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: This meal appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan easier and more efficient. Make sure you’re equipped with these essentials before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A large rimmed baking sheet allows for even cooking and easy exposure to heat for both chicken and veggies.
- Mixing bowls: They are essential for combining ingredients without mess. Using separate bowls ensures better mixing of sauces.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring a well-mixed flavor profile.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Vegetables
- 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
For the Sauce
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 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 step is crucial as it ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, bell peppers, onion wedges, and pineapple chunks. Mix them well so that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Soy sauce
2. Brown sugar
3. Pineapple juice (from the can)
4. Cornstarch
5. Garlic powder
6. Ginger
7. Red pepper flakes (if using)
Ensure that all ingredients are blended thoroughly for a smooth sauce.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in your large bowl. Toss everything together until each piece is well-coated in sauce.
Step 5: Spread on Sheet Pan
Transfer the coated mixture onto your baking sheet in a single layer. Spreading it out helps with even roasting.
Step 6: Bake
Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven. Roast for about 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will transport you straight to an island paradise with every bite.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
Serve with Rice
- White Rice: Fluffy white rice pairs perfectly, absorbing the delicious juices.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
- Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice enhances the tropical vibe of the dish.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro adds brightness and freshness.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions give a slight crunch and mild onion flavor.
Include Extra Sauces
- Soy Sauce: Offering additional soy sauce allows guests to customize their flavors.
- Sriracha or Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy some heat, provide spicy condiments on the side.
Pair with Salad
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad balances the richness of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
Serve in Bowls
- Hawaiian Chicken Bowls: Layer chicken with rice, veggies, and sauces in bowls for a fun presentation.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Creating the perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken enhance flavor and texture.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes boosts taste.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spreading ingredients evenly ensures even cooking and caramelization.
- Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Every oven is different; check chicken doneness with a thermometer (165°F).
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more colorful veggies like zucchini or snap peas for added nutrients.
- Garnish Before Serving: Adding fresh herbs right before serving brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Complement your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal while adding variety.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides vitamins and balances out the meal’s sweetness.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds protein and freshness.
- Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus gives a lovely crunch and earthy flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a fun, seasonal addition that kids love.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a hit and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings an added tropical twist to your plate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide an excellent sweet-savory contrast.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed with vinegar refreshes your palate between bites.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring ingredient sizes: Ensure that chicken and vegetables are cut into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Skipping marinating time: Allow the chicken to soak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This enhances flavor significantly.
- Crowding the pan: Spread ingredients in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Not checking doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Using low-quality soy sauce: Choose a good quality soy sauce for better flavor. Cheap brands can alter the taste of your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place food in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and cover loosely. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan. Here are some common queries:
What is Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a flavorful dish combining chicken, bell peppers, pineapple, and a savory sauce, all roasted together for a quick meal.
Can I customize the vegetables?
Absolutely! You can use any vegetables you like such as broccoli or snap peas, based on your preference and seasonal availability.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is perfect for meal prep. Just store portions in airtight containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. It offers a similar flavor without gluten.
Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. You can adjust ingredients based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today and explore the endless customization options available!
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant and enticing dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your dinner table. This easy recipe features tender chicken, a colorful medley of bell peppers and onions, and sweet pineapple chunks, all roasted together on a single baking sheet for hassle-free cooking. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this one-pan meal requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a delightful taste of the islands in about an hour. Customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
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
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, bell peppers, onion wedges, and pineapple chunks.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, and ginger until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables; toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
