Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful and colorful dish that brings the flavors of the tropics right to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, combining tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and sweet pineapple. The simplicity of a sheet pan meal makes it an ideal choice for families looking for healthy options without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavorful and Savory: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple creates a mouthwatering glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup! Everything cooks together on one sheet pan, saving you time and effort.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand—this recipe is adaptable to your preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish fits perfectly into a healthy dinner plan without breaking the bank.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and easy transfer from oven to table.
- Mixing bowls: Allow for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce consistency by thoroughly combining ingredients.
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) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine:
– The chicken cubes
– Chopped bell peppers
– Onion wedges
– Pineapple chunks
Toss them gently to mix.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
– Soy sauce
– Brown sugar
– Pineapple juice
– Cornstarch
– Garlic powder
– Ginger
– Red pepper flakes (if using)
This will create a flavorful sauce that enhances your dish.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything well until evenly coated.
Step 5: Spread on Sheet Pan
Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet. This helps everything cook evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and all vegetables are tender. Enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Serving Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is easy and versatile. This dish is colorful, flavorful, and can be enjoyed in various ways to please everyone at the table.
Over Rice
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a fragrant base that complements the sweet and savory flavors.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice which adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
In Tacos
- Soft Flour Tortillas: Fill warm tortillas with the chicken mixture for a delightful twist on taco night. Top with fresh cilantro or avocado for added freshness.
- Corn Tortillas: Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option that pairs perfectly with the Hawaiian flavors.
As a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss the chicken and vegetables with mixed greens for a light salad. Drizzle with a vinaigrette to brighten the dish.
- Coleslaw: Add some crunch by serving it atop a bed of coleslaw, enhancing the flavors with creamy dressing.
With Noodles
- Rice Noodles: Mix in cooked rice noodles for an Asian-inspired dish that soaks up all the delicious sauce from the sheet pan.
- Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): For a low-carb option, serve it over zoodles. The fresh zucchini adds texture and complements the dish’s flavors.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
To achieve perfection with your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, keep these tips in mind:
- marinade: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Evenly cut vegetables: Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
- High heat roasting: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting results.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest before serving: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking; this helps juices redistribute throughout the chicken.
- Garnish wisely: Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds just before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Pairing sides with your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that offers bright color and nutrients without overshadowing the main dish.
- Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa salad adds texture and protein while complementing the Hawaiian flavors.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Oven-roasted sweet potato wedges bring sweetness and balance to your plate.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce from your sheet pan meal.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of the chicken.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds smokiness that pairs well with the sweet and savory notes of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping marination: Marinating the chicken in the sauce enhances its flavor. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you pack too much on your sheet pan, the chicken and veggies won’t roast properly. Spread everything out in a single layer.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can affect taste. Always choose fresh produce for the best flavor and texture.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Check for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
- Forgetting about leftovers: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to refrigerate any extra food within two hours of cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date so you know when it was frozen.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through, for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan that might help you perfect your dish!
What is Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delicious one-pan meal featuring chicken, colorful vegetables, and sweet pineapple chunks, all roasted together with flavorful sauce.
Can I customize the vegetables in Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like zucchini or broccoli based on your preference or what you have on hand.
How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan healthier?
To make it healthier, use less sugar in the sauce or substitute with a natural sweetener. You can also add more fresh vegetables.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa. It also goes well with a light salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe offers an enticing combination of flavors that will please everyone at your table. It is versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your tastes and what’s available in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the tropics to your dining table, making it ideal for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and sweet pineapple, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or convenience. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks together on a single baking sheet. Perfectly adaptable, feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce to suit your family’s preferences. Experience the joy of easy cooking with this delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe.
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)
- 1 can pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Ginger
- Cornstarch
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, chopped bell peppers, onion wedges, and pineapple chunks.
- In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture; toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
