Bring a taste of the tropics to your table with this flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe. Juicy chicken thighs or breasts are roasted alongside a vibrant mix of bell peppers, onions, and sweet pineapple, all coated in a tangy Hawaiian-inspired glaze. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, combining minimal prep with maximum flavor. Easy to customize and packed with bold, tropical flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hawaiian Glaze:
1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh or 100% juice)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional for extra flavor)
Vegetables:
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned if fresh isn’t available)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Make the Hawaiian Glaze
In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
For a thicker glaze, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
Toss the bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks in olive oil.
Season with salt and pepper, then spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Assemble and Roast
Place the seasoned chicken on the baking sheet with the vegetables.
Drizzle some of the prepared glaze over the chicken and vegetables.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Final Glaze and Serve
Halfway through roasting, drizzle more glaze over the chicken and vegetables for added flavor.
Remove from the oven, and serve hot with steamed rice or quinoa. Drizzle with the remaining glaze and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Chicken
- Crispy Chicken Skin: If using skin-on chicken thighs, place them skin-side up to achieve a crispy finish.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Swap bell peppers and onions for zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for variety.
- Marinate for More Flavor: Marinate the chicken in the glaze for a few hours or overnight to deepen the flavor.
- Final Touches: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and color.
- Adjust Sweetness: Customize the glaze by adding more honey or pineapple juice for extra sweetness.
Variations
Spicy Hawaiian Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the glaze for a touch of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and bake alongside the vegetables.
Grilled Version: Grill the chicken and vegetables for a smoky flavor. Use the glaze as a basting sauce during grilling.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.
How to Store
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and vegetables (without glaze) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or in the microwave for a quick meal.
FAQs
- Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Bone-in pieces may take 30-35 minutes to reach 165°F (74°C). - Can I use canned pineapple?
Absolutely! Opt for canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup) if fresh pineapple is unavailable. - How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Keep an eye on the glaze during cooking, as the sugars can caramelize quickly. Adding it in stages (before and halfway through roasting) helps prevent burning. - Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the glaze can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat before using. - What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad make excellent accompaniments to balance the flavors.
Enjoy Your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Meal!
Bursting with tropical flavors and colorful ingredients, this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s a delightful way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table.