Introduction:
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a delightful, easy-to-make dinner that brings together the sweet and savory flavors of tropical Hawaii. The dish features juicy chicken thighs or breasts, roasted with a medley of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and pineapples, all infused with a flavorful teriyaki marinade. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that is not only delicious but also easy to clean up, as everything cooks on one sheet pan. The balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors will make this dish a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
1/4 cup pineapple juice (if using fresh pineapple)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal or cover. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to absorb the flavors.
Prepare the sheet pan: On a large sheet pan, toss the sliced bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade) and place it on the sheet pan with the vegetables and pineapple.
Roast in the oven: Roast everything for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional) for an added touch. Serve immediately.
Description:
This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan dish is a vibrant and healthy dinner that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and a burst of colorful vegetables. The marinade is rich and flavorful, with the sweetness of honey and pineapple balanced perfectly with the savory soy sauce and sesame oil. The sheet pan method makes it incredibly simple to prepare and clean up. Each bite is a tropical escape, with the juicy chicken paired with caramelized vegetables and pineapple. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy Hawaiian-inspired flavors in the comfort of your home.
Tips:
Chicken thighs vs. chicken breasts: Chicken thighs tend to be more juicy and forgiving when baked, but if you prefer chicken breasts, make sure to not overcook them to avoid dryness.
Marinate for flavor: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for more flavor, leave it in the fridge for up to 2 hours.
Crispier vegetables: If you prefer your vegetables crispier, you can roast them on a separate sheet pan to avoid overcrowding.
Make it spicier: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little kick.
Variations:
Add more tropical fruit: For an even more tropical flavor, add diced mango or coconut to the sheet pan for an exotic twist.
Swap vegetables: You can replace bell peppers with zucchini, carrots, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Grilled version: For a smoky touch, grill the chicken and vegetables instead of baking them. This will add a nice char and depth to the flavor.
Corrections:
If the chicken is cooking too fast or the vegetables are getting too crispy, lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue cooking until everything is perfectly cooked.
For a more caramelized finish, broil the sheet pan for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Enjoy:
Once everything is roasted to perfection, serve your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan dish with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy the tropical flavors and vibrant colors that are sure to brighten up any dinner table. It’s a healthy, one-pan meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!