Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the tropics right to your dinner table. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken with colorful vegetables and sweet pineapple, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The ease of preparation and the bold flavors ensure that this recipe will become a favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything on one sheet pan means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple creates a deliciously sweet and savory taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet pineapple and colorful veggies, making it an easy way to please everyone at the table.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Small bowl for sauce
- Whisk or fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: This allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Rimmed baking sheet: The rim keeps juices contained while roasting, preventing messes in your oven.
- Small bowl for sauce: Whisking the sauce separately ensures even distribution of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
For the Sauce
- 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 for ensuring even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes, bell peppers, onion wedges, and drained pineapple chunks. Stir gently to mix all ingredients together.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Pineapple juice from the can
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Ginger
Red pepper flakes (if using)
This mixture will serve as your flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture in your large bowl. Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Spread on Sheet Pan
Spread the coated mixture in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. Ensure that everything is laid out evenly for proper roasting.
Step 6: Bake
Roast in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness when the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Serving your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan can elevate your dining experience, making it not only delicious but visually appealing. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
On a Bed of Rice
- White Rice: Serve the chicken and veggies over fluffy white rice for a classic pairing.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
In a Wrap
- Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken and veggies in tortillas for a tasty handheld meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb alternative.
As a Bowl
- Grain Bowl: Create a filling grain bowl with quinoa, topped with Hawaiian Chicken and fresh greens.
- Salad Bowl: Combine the chicken with mixed greens and drizzle with extra pineapple juice for dressing.
With Toppings
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for added freshness.
- Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices on top for richness and flavor.
As Leftovers
- Sandwiches: Use leftovers to make delicious sandwiches for lunch the next day.
- Stir-Fried Noodles: Toss leftover chicken and veggies into stir-fried noodles for a quick dinner.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
To achieve the best results with your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, consider these helpful tips that ensure every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
- Marinate Longer: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh bell peppers and onions will give you better texture and taste compared to frozen options.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread everything out on the sheet pan; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak soy sauce or brown sugar levels based on your taste preference.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve right after baking while everything is hot and tender.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out the sweetness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that complements the flavors beautifully with its savory notes.
- Coleslaw: Refreshing and crunchy, coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the warm chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly, offering a delightful crunch and sweetness.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add another layer of sweetness that matches well with pineapple flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad brings freshness and acidity to balance the meal’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, some common pitfalls can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce can lead to bland flavors. Take time to let it soak up those tropical tastes.
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Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many ingredients on the sheet pan can result in steaming instead of roasting. Spread them out for that perfect caramelization.
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Ignoring vegetable size: Cutting vegetables unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly.
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Not checking doneness: Relying solely on cooking time may result in undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Forgetting about leftovers: If you don’t store leftovers properly, they might spoil quickly. Use airtight containers for maximum freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use microwave-safe dishes and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan:
What is Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken and colorful vegetables, all roasted together for a delightful meal.
Can I use other vegetables in Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I customize my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
You can customize by adding different spices or using teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a unique twist!
What sides go well with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Pair it with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies and sauces. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that transports you to the tropics with every bite. This one-pan meal features succulent chicken combined with colorful bell peppers, red onion, and sweet pineapple, all infused with a delightful sauce of soy and brown sugar. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe promises easy preparation and minimal cleanup while delivering an explosion of flavors that everyone will love. Whether served over rice or wrapped in tortillas, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 20 oz can pineapple chunks, drained (juice reserved)
- 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
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, reserved pineapple juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, and ginger.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the pan (about 300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
