Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii right to your dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any gathering where you want to impress your family and friends. Not only does it offer bold flavors from juicy chicken and sweet pineapple, but it also makes for a quick cleanup since everything cooks on one pan!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, this dish can be ready in about an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple creates a delightful mix that pleases the palate.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or enjoy as-is for a healthy meal option.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for families.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan successfully, having the right tools will make all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A large rimmed baking sheet allows even cooking while keeping juices contained.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending sauces smoothly without lumps.
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 ensures that your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine:
1. The cubed chicken.
2. The red bell pepper pieces.
3. The yellow or orange bell pepper pieces.
4. The onion wedges.
5. The drained pineapple chunks.
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 you’re using them).
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together until well-coated.
Step 5: Spread on Sheet Pan
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture in a single layer on your large rimmed baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake
Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Enjoy your flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan can be as fun and creative as the dish itself. This vibrant meal pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its tropical flavors.
With Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, floral notes of jasmine rice complement the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Coconut Rice: For a richer flavor, cook your rice in coconut milk for an added tropical flair.
In a Bowl
- Hawaiian Chicken Bowl: Layer the chicken and veggies over rice or quinoa, then drizzle with extra sauce for a hearty meal.
- Salad Base: Serve the chicken and vegetables on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing twist.
Topped with Fresh Ingredients
- Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added crunch and color.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
With Dipping Sauces
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet and spicy dipping sauce complements the flavors well.
- Soy Sauce Mixture: A simple mixture of soy sauce and lime juice can enhance the dish’s savory elements.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Achieving perfection with your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is all about timing and flavor balance. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and vegetables will enhance the overall taste and texture.
- Marinate Chicken: Letting the chicken sit in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking can intensify the flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there’s enough space between pieces to allow even cooking and browning.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan enhances its deliciousness. Here are some perfect options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that contrasts nicely with the chicken.
- Fried Rice: Use leftover rice to create a quick fried rice mixed with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the dish.
- Quinoa Salad: Quinoa tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a healthy option.
- Grilled Pineapple Slices: Grilling pineapple caramelizes its sugars, making it an excellent sweet addition.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with Hawaiian flavors; grill or boil it for quick prep.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan. Here are some to watch out for:
-
Overcrowding the pan: When you pile the chicken and vegetables too close together, they steam instead of roast. Make sure to spread them in a single layer for even cooking.
-
Not marinating enough: Skipping or rushing the marination process can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to soak in the sauce for at least 15 minutes for maximum taste.
-
Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly.
-
Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality chicken or vegetables can compromise the dish’s flavor. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
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Skipping preheating: Not preheating your oven can result in longer cooking times and uneven results. Always make sure your oven is ready before placing your pan inside.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use other proteins besides chicken in this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
You can definitely substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist while keeping the same delicious flavors!
How spicy is the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
The level of spice depends on whether you add red pepper flakes. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder dish.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa, but you can also enjoy it on its own as a light meal!
How long does it take to make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
The total time from prep to table is about 50 minutes, including both preparation and cooking!
Can I meal prep with this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prepping as it reheats well and retains its flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that bring joy to any dinner table. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce sweetness. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is!
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant, flavorful dish that transports you to tropical paradise with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful veggies, all cooked together on a single pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this one-pan meal is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a family favorite. With its bold flavors and simple preparation steps, you can have dinner on the table in just about an hour. Try serving it over rice or quinoa for an extra touch of comfort!
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 olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken, bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies; toss until well-coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
