Introduction: The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings together the sweetness of pineapple and the savory flavor of chicken, all roasted together in one pan. This dish combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a tangy Hawaiian-inspired glaze, making it a perfect weeknight dinner with minimal clean-up. It’s sweet, savory, and packed with vibrant flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 can (14 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve the juice)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tbsp fresh grated ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them on the prepared sheet pan.
Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Pour the glaze over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Add the vegetables and pineapple: Scatter the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple chunks around the chicken on the sheet pan. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with a little more salt and pepper.
Roast the dish: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added flavor and texture. Serve the Hawaiian chicken with the roasted vegetables and pineapple.
Description:
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan brings together tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful vegetables, all coated in a flavorful, tangy-sweet glaze. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and ginger creates a tropical-inspired sauce that infuses the chicken and vegetables with rich flavors. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy nights and is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Tips:
Even cooking: Make sure the chicken pieces are of similar size to ensure even cooking. If the chicken breasts are very thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to reduce cooking time.
Marinating: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the glaze for 30 minutes to an hour before roasting.
Vegetable variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas to the pan for more color and nutrients.
Serve with sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a light salad. You can even use the pineapple glaze as a drizzle over your side dishes.
Variations:
Chicken Drumsticks: Swap the chicken breasts for chicken drumsticks or thighs for a different texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chilies to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version. Be sure to press and cube the tofu before roasting to get a nice texture.
Corrections:
If the chicken is not browning properly, try broiling it for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking to achieve a crispy, caramelized finish.
If the glaze becomes too thick, add a splash of water or extra pineapple juice to thin it out and make it more drizzle-friendly.
Enjoy:
Serve your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan hot, and enjoy the combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and roasted vegetables in every bite. This one-pan meal is a simple and flavorful way to bring tropical flavors to your dinner table. Enjoy the easy cleanup and the delicious, vibrant tastes!
