Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

This vibrant Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken brings everything I love about island cuisine to your dinner table in less than an hour. Juicy chunks of chicken mingle with bright bell pepper and red onion, all tossed in a savory yet sweet pineapple-soy glaze. It is a fuss-free meal ideal for busy nights or sharing at a weekend gathering.

Every time I make this recipe it surprises me how effortless yet impressive it feels. The aroma of roasted pineapples and garlic draws everyone into the kitchen whether it is a rainy weeknight or a summer Sunday with friends.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Make sure to choose firm moist fillets preferably free range if possible as the lean protein keeps this dish healthy and filling
• Bell pepper: Go for colors as red or yellow peppers add sweetness and a vibrant pop to your pan look for shiny skins
• Red onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a soft bite pick onions that feel firm and heavy for their size
• Pineapple chunks: Use ripe fresh pineapple if you can for the best caramelized flavor canned works in a pinch but fresh gives a juicier result
• Soy sauce: Adds deep umami and saltiness opt for low sodium versions to better control the salt
• Olive oil: Coats everything for roasting and adds richness look for a mild flavored olive oil
• Minced garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with boldness choose cloves that are fragrant and firm
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the sweetness taste and adjust as you mix
• Cooked rice: Provides a fluffy base to soak up every drop of sauce jasmine rice works especially well
• Chopped green onions: Use fresh sturdy green tops for the best crunch and color in garnish
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle at the end brings a nutty finish use toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:

Cut the chicken breast into bite sized pieces and slice the bell pepper and red onion Thin slices will help the vegetables roast quickly and evenly Place everything into a large mixing bowl for easy coating

Make the Sauce:

In a small bowl whisk together the soy sauce olive oil minced garlic salt and pepper Stir thoroughly so the garlic distributes throughout the liquid This ensures all chicken and vegetables will pick up the same punchy flavor

Toss Together:

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in your large bowl Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to toss until every piece is glossy and well coated This step guarantees flavor in every bite

Arrange on the Sheet Pan:

Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup Spread out the chicken pineapple peppers and onions in a single layer Make sure the pieces do not touch too closely which allows perfect caramelization

Roast in the Oven:

Heat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Place the pan in the middle rack Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes Gently stir halfway through to prevent burning and ensure even roasting Chicken is done when the juices run clear and the edges are golden

Finish and Serve:

Remove the pan from the oven Scatter chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top Serve immediately over warm cooked rice Savor with a side salad or extra pineapple if you like

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is how the pineapple roasts to caramelized edges giving bursts of sweetness in every mouthful My kids always race to pick out extra pineapple chunks it has turned into a playful family tradition each time we make this meal

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered pan on low heat to keep the chicken tender If you want to prep ahead chop all vegetables and make the sauce then assemble just before baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs work beautifully in place of breast for a richer flavor For a vegetarian version use cubed extra firm tofu or chickpeas Use tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten free Swap sesame oil for olive oil for a toastier aroma

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious over coconut rice for an extra island touch Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in citrus vinaigrette For a party platter offer small bowls of sriracha or chopped cilantro for added heat and freshness

Cultural and Historical Context

While not a traditional Hawaiian dish this recipe captures the fusion spirit of the islands Modern Hawaiian cooking blends influences from Native Hawaiian Japanese Filipino and American cuisines The use of pineapple is a nod to Hawaii’s agricultural legacy and love for fruits in savory cooking

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in mango chunks in place of pineapple for a mango chicken twist Add zucchini or snap peas when they are abundant in spring and summer Use sweet potato in cooler months for a heartier feel

Success Stories

My neighbor tried this with shrimp instead of chicken for a summer barbecue and it disappeared quickly Whenever I bring this to a potluck someone always requests the recipe It is a wonderful conversation starter about travel memories and favorite flavors from the islands

Freezer Meal Conversion

Prepare the chicken and vegetables with the sauce then freeze in a zip top bag Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a quick dinner with no mess You can also freeze any leftovers in portions and microwave straight from frozen

This is a flavorful and effortless dinner you will want to make again and again. Enjoy the sweet savory blend and share it with your favorite people soon.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ How do you keep chicken juicy when baking on a sheet pan?

Coat the chicken evenly with sauce, leave space between pieces, and bake at high heat to lock in moisture.

→ Can fresh or canned pineapple be used?

Both work well, but fresh pineapple offers brighter flavor and better caramelization when roasted.

→ What vegetables go best with sheet pan Hawaiian chicken?

Bell peppers and red onions add color and sweetness, but zucchini or snap peas are also tasty options.

→ How can I add extra flavor to the dish?

Try marinating the chicken, adding a splash of teriyaki sauce, or sprinkling with chili flakes for a spicy twist.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for this meal?

Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and follow the same seasoning and roasting steps for a satisfying result.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with steamed jasmine or coconut rice, or complement with grilled vegetables and mixed greens salad.