Easy Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

If you’re searching for an effortless, mouthwatering meal that bursts with tropical flavors, the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is your new weeknight hero. This quick and flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan dinner combines juicy chicken thighs, colorful veggies, and sweet pineapple all on one pan, making cleanup a breeze and dinner time a delight. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly smoky notes that brings a taste of the islands right to your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks together on a single sheet pan, saving you time on prep and cleanup.
• Tropical flavor explosion: The sweet pineapple and tangy sauce perfectly complement the tender chicken and veggies.
• Nutritious and balanced: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber thanks to the fresh ingredients.
• Great for any skill level: Simple steps that even kitchen beginners can master with ease.
• Versatile meal idea: Easily modified for dietary preferences or what’s on hand in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan are simple, fresh, and full of natural flavor. Each component plays a key role in creating a colorful, juicy dish with the perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes.

• Chicken thighs: Skin-on, bone-in delivers the juiciest meat that stays tender during roasting.
• Fresh pineapple chunks: Adds a tropical sweetness that caramelizes nicely in the oven.
• Bell peppers: Red and yellow peppers bring vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Red onion: Adds a mild sharpness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Soy sauce: For that umami-packed, salty depth to the marinade.
• Honey: Natural sweetener that helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh aromatics that infuse the chicken with warm, zesty notes.
• Olive oil: Enhances cooking and adds richness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, elevating all the elements.

Variations for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Feel free to customize your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan to match your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s so flexible that you can swap ingredients or add extras without any fuss.

• Swap chicken cuts: Use boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option with quicker cooking time.
• Change veggies: Add zucchini, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes for more variety and nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
• Add heat: Sprinkle chili flakes or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Make it vegan: Substitute tofu or tempeh and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Step 1: Prep the marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and olive oil until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over. Toss to coat fully, then let it sit for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the veggies

While the chicken marinates, slice bell peppers and red onion, and cut fresh pineapple into chunks. This prep ensures everything cooks evenly on the sheet pan.

Step 4: Arrange everything on the sheet pan

Lay the marinated chicken thighs in the center of a large sheet pan, then scatter the peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks around them in an even layer.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning the veggies once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized on top.

Step 6: Optional broil for crispiness

If you love a crispy finish, place the sheet pan under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

• Use skin-on chicken: It crisps up beautifully and locks in juiciness during roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread ingredients out for even cooking and caramelization.
• Marinating time matters: Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for several hours makes a big flavor difference.
• Keep pineapple fresh: Avoid canned pineapple to maintain that bright tropical zing.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to seal in juices.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or cilantro for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that complement the tropical vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even a simple quinoa salad to soak up all the delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in a vibrant, summery bowl or plate to highlight the colorful veggies and pineapple chunks, or even stuff in warm tortillas for a fun taco twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days while maintaining freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the crispy texture, or use a skillet over medium heat as a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner alternative, but be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster than thighs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and reheats beautifully without losing flavor.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely! Adding chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade gives it a tasty heat boost.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos if you want to reduce sodium and keep it paleo-friendly.

How do I keep the pineapple from making the dish watery?

Using fresh pineapple instead of canned prevents excess liquid, and spreading ingredients out on the pan allows moisture to evaporate, keeping everything crisp.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan enough for anyone who loves easy, flavorful meals that bring a vacation vibe to the dinner table. With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and incredible taste, this recipe will quickly become your go-to weeknight favorite. Give it a try, and let the tropical flavors brighten up your mealtime!

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