Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of Hawaii to your dinner table with minimal effort. This one-pan meal features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and juicy pineapple, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The ease of preparation and the balance of savory and sweet flavors make this recipe stand out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of chicken, fresh vegetables, and pineapple creates a deliciously balanced flavor.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and nutritious veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for families.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own; the possibilities are endless!
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients, this recipe fits well within your budget while satisfying the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowls: Having both small and large bowls allows for efficient preparation of ingredients and sauces.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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
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
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
Additional Ingredients
- 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 temperature helps achieve perfectly roasted chicken and vegetables.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– Chicken cubes
– Bell peppers
– Red onion
– Pineapple chunks
Toss them gently to mix well.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
– Soy sauce
– Brown sugar
– Pineapple juice
– Cornstarch
– Garlic powder
– Ginger
– Red pepper flakes (if using)
This will create a flavorful glaze for your dish.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Spread on Sheet Pan
Transfer the mixture onto a large rimmed baking sheet. Spread it out in a single layer for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake
Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender before serving. Enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Serving the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is all about enhancing the tropical flavors while ensuring a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Serve with Rice
- Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty base that absorbs the delicious sauce.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh and vibrant touch that adds flavor.
Include Avocado Slices
- Pair with creamy avocado slices to balance the sweetness of the dish and add a creamy texture.
Offer Lime Wedges
- Provide lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the chicken, adding a zesty kick.
Create Wraps
- Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to make wraps filled with chicken, pineapple, and veggies for a fun twist.
Serve with Coleslaw
- A crunchy coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken and veggies.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Perfecting your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan involves some simple tips that can enhance flavor and texture. Here are some key pointers:
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Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes can deepen the flavors and make it more tender.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions will add crunch and vibrant colors, making your dish more appealing.
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Even Layering: Spread the chicken and vegetables evenly on the sheet pan for uniform cooking and browning.
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Check Chicken Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
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Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for added nutrition and variety.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer heat, increase red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños before baking.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet and savory profile. Here are some great options:
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Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk adds richness and pairs beautifully with tropical flavors.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your sheet pan meal.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a nice crunch and adds vibrant color to your plate.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lime dressing can provide a healthy, protein-packed side option.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that enhances the dish’s flavors while being crispy.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring tropical fruits like mango and kiwi complements the Hawaiian theme perfectly.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch, making it a seasonal favorite alongside this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoid these to ensure a perfect dish every time.
- Boldly overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Always check for doneness at 30 minutes and remove from the oven when juices run clear.
- Neglecting vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables too small can lead to mushiness. Aim for uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Skipping the marinade: Failing to allow the chicken to marinate in the sauce can reduce flavor. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking for best results.
- Not preheating the oven: Cooking in an unheated oven can alter cooking times and textures. Always preheat to 400°F (200°C) before baking.
- Using non-stick spray on a sheet pan: This can lead to uneven cooking. Instead, use olive oil directly on the pan for better results and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan.
What is Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and sweet pineapple, all baked together with a flavorful sauce.
How long does it take to cook Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Cooking this dish typically takes around 30-35 minutes once prepared. Make sure your chicken is cooked through before serving!
Can I customize my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like broccoli or snap peas, or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Is Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan healthy?
Yes! This recipe includes lean protein from chicken and plenty of vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. Adjustments can be made for dietary preferences as well.
Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try; its delightful combination of flavors will surely impress your family!
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful, one-pan meal that brings the taste of the tropics to your table with ease. Featuring tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and juicy pineapple, this dish balances savory and sweet flavors perfectly. Ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, it takes just 15 minutes of prep time and can be paired with rice or enjoyed on its own. Budget-friendly and healthy, it’s a wholesome choice that will satisfy the entire family while making dinner hassle-free.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow/orange bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 20 oz can pineapple chunks
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple chunks.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, ginger, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies; toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the 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: 11g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
