Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting and vibrant as a Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe when you want a meal that combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful vegetables in one easy dish. This recipe captures the tropical flavors and the warmth of home cooking with minimal effort, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends. You’ll love how the savory marinade blends with the natural sweetness of the pineapple and peppers, all baked together to build harmonious layers of texture and flavor. Trust me, once you try this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe, it will deserve a permanent spot in your cooking rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one bringing something special to the dish. From the tender chicken marinated in soy and honey, to the vibrant bell peppers and pineapple that add bursts of sweetness and color, every item plays a part in creating a perfectly balanced meal.

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces): Choosing breast meat ensures tender, lean pieces that absorb the marinade beautifully.
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks (drained, reserve juice): The star of the dish, pineapple adds a tropical sweetness and juiciness that elevates every bite.
• 1 red bell pepper (diced): Adds a vibrant pop of color and crunch to contrast the tender chicken.
• 1 yellow bell pepper (diced): Brings a slightly sweeter note and brightens the plate visually.
• 1 medium red onion (cut into wedges): Offers a mild pungency that caramelizes deliciously when roasted.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic deepens the flavor profile with its warm, aromatic punch.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich base that tenderizes the chicken and adds depth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the chicken brown and keeps everything moist during roasting.
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar): Sweetens the marinade and balances the savory soy sauce perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Introduces a subtle zing that complements the pineapple’s sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and a beautiful rosy color to the chicken.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish): A fresh burst of herbaceous brightness to finish the dish.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the chicken breast pieces in a large bowl with soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes it for juicy results. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes—this short marinating time is all you need for maximum taste penetration.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Pineapple

While your chicken soaks up all those tropical flavors, chop the red and yellow bell peppers and slice the red onion into wedges. Spread these out on a large sheet pan along with the drained pineapple chunks. This colorful bed of veggies and fruit will roast evenly under the chicken and soak up all those wonderful juices.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Place the marinated chicken over the spread-out vegetables and pineapple on the sheet pan. Pour any leftover marinade over the top to catch every bit of flavor. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. Be sure to stir everything halfway through cooking to make sure the chicken cooks evenly and the edges get just the right amount of caramelization.

Step 4: Check and Rest

Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. If it’s not quite there, pop it back in the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, let the entire pan rest for a few minutes outside the oven to allow the flavors to settle.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the sweet and savory notes of the dish. It’s the perfect finishing touch that livens up each bite.

Side Dishes

This dish shines served over fluffy steamed rice or nutty quinoa, which soak up the delightful juices from the pan. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe in a hollowed-out pineapple for an eye-catching presentation. Alternatively, spoon the chicken and veggies into warm tortillas for a fusion taco experience that combines tropical with street food vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the fresh batch.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away, freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave to preserve the chicken’s crispy edges and avoid sogginess. A quick 10–15 minute warm-up at 350°F (175°C) will bring back that fresh-off-the-pan magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. This ensures the marinade absorbs evenly and the chicken cooks thoroughly.

Is there a substitute for honey?

Absolutely! Brown sugar or agave syrup both work well to provide that sweet balance to the soy sauce and spices.

How do I know when the vegetables are done?

The vegetables should be tender but still have a bit of crunch to add texture and keep that fresh flavor—avoid letting them become mushy.

Can I replace the pineapples with something else?

Definitely! Mango chunks or peaches make great tropical alternatives that bring their own unique sweetness and texture.

How long can leftovers last?

You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before eating.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is one of those feel-good meals that’s as joyful to cook as it is to eat. Easy, quick, packed with vibrant flavors, and with minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy nights when you still want something special. I urge you to give it a try—you’re going to love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly delicious and memorable.

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