Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in a single pan. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep and cleanup while delivering delicious results. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, and colorful bell peppers makes this meal both visually appealing and incredibly tasty.

One of the best things about sheet pan meals is their simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients and a well-balanced marinade, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The caramelized pineapple, tender chicken, and slightly crisp veggies make this a well-rounded, nutritious meal that can be served over rice, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps.

Overview of Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

This dish draws inspiration from Hawaiian flavors, which often feature a balance of sweet and savory ingredients. The marinade plays a crucial role in bringing out these flavors, blending soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, and ginger to create a rich, umami-packed glaze.

Cooking everything on a single sheet pan ensures that the chicken and vegetables absorb the delicious sauce while roasting to perfection. The pineapple caramelizes beautifully, adding a slight charred sweetness that enhances the overall taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience – Minimal cleanup and hassle.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors – A sweet and tangy glaze coats every bite.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 45 minutes.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.

Brief History and Cultural Significance

Hawaiian cuisine is a fusion of influences from Polynesian, Asian, and Western cultures. Pineapple and soy sauce are common ingredients in Hawaiian-inspired dishes, reflecting the Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino culinary influences that have shaped the islands’ cuisine.

The sweet-and-savory combination of pineapple and soy sauce is a staple in teriyaki-style dishes, which are widely loved in Hawaiian barbecue culture. This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe takes these traditional flavors and simplifies them into a modern, easy-to-make meal perfect for home cooks.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Prep Tips

• Dice chicken and veggies evenly to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and texture.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Sharp knife for chopping chicken and vegetables
• Mixing bowls for marinating ingredients
• Whisk for combining the marinade
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients List 

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 orange or yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, chopped into chunks
• 4 cups fresh pineapple, diced

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tbsp pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder (or substitute cornstarch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

• Dice the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
• Cut the bell peppers and red onion into similar-sized pieces.
• Chop the pineapple into bite-sized chunks.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Soy sauce, ketchup, honey, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
• Slowly whisk in the arrowroot powder until fully dissolved.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken and Vegetables

• Place the chicken, bell peppers, and red onion in a large mixing bowl.
• Pour the marinade over the chicken and veggies, tossing until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

• Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture in a single layer on the baking sheet.
• Avoid overcrowding to allow for proper roasting.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken and Vegetables

• Bake for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
• Remove from the oven and scatter the pineapple chunks over the mixture.
• Toss lightly to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 7: Continue Baking

• Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the veggies are slightly caramelized.

Step 8: Broil for Crispiness (Optional)

• For an extra charred and crispy texture, switch your oven to broil mode for the last 3-4 minutes.
• Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

• Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or lettuce wraps.
• Drizzle with the extra sauce from the pan for added flavor.

Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a well-balanced dish on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can enhance the meal. Whether you’re looking for a light, refreshing side or a hearty complement, these options will round out your plate beautifully.

1. Coconut Rice

A classic pairing, coconut rice enhances the tropical flavors of the dish. The mild sweetness of coconut milk perfectly balances the tangy and savory glaze of the chicken.

How to make it:

• Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water.
• In a saucepan, combine 1 cup coconut milk, 1 cup water, and a pinch of salt.
• Bring to a boil, add rice, cover, and reduce heat.
• Simmer for 15 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

2. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

A creamy, tangy macaroni salad is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine. The rich texture of the mayonnaise-based dressing complements the light, caramelized flavors of the chicken.

Quick recipe:

• Cook elbow macaroni until tender.
• Mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, shredded carrots, and a pinch of sugar.
• Chill before serving.

3. Grilled Pineapple Slices

If you love the caramelized pineapple in the sheet pan meal, grilled pineapple slices take it to the next level. The natural sugars caramelize, creating deep, smoky sweetness.

How to grill pineapple:

• Slice fresh pineapple into ½-inch rounds.
• Brush lightly with honey and lime juice.
• Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred.

4. Steamed Jasmine Rice

A simple bowl of steamed jasmine rice allows the flavors of the Hawaiian Chicken to shine. It soaks up the extra sauce, making each bite more flavorful.

Pro tip: Add a dash of toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra texture and color.

5. Garlic Butter Green Beans

A light vegetable side dish balances the sweetness of the main meal. Garlic butter green beans add freshness and crunch.

Quick method:

• Sauté green beans with minced garlic and butter over medium heat for 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper before serving.

6. Hawaiian Rolls

These soft, slightly sweet rolls pair wonderfully with Hawaiian Chicken. Use them to soak up the extra sauce or turn the chicken into a sandwich slider.

7. Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing

A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing brings brightness and freshness to the meal. The slight bitterness of cabbage balances the sweetness of the pineapple glaze.

Simple slaw mix:

• Shredded green and purple cabbage
• Grated carrots
• Toss with rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey

8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

If you prefer a heartier side dish, roasted sweet potatoes provide a caramelized, slightly savory balance to the meal.

How to make it:

• Dice sweet potatoes into cubes.
• Toss with olive oil, salt, and cinnamon.
• Roast at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is not just delicious, but also nutritious. It provides a high-protein, low-fat meal that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Calories & Macronutrients

• Protein – Lean chicken breast provides a high-protein meal that supports muscle growth and repair.
• Carbohydrates – The pineapple and bell peppers offer natural sugars and fiber.
• Fats – A small amount of healthy fat comes from the soy sauce and sesame oil (if added as a garnish).

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

1. Chicken Breast

• High in protein for muscle maintenance
• Low in fat compared to other meats
• Provides iron and B vitamins for energy

2. Pineapple

• Rich in vitamin C to boost immunity
• Contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion
• Natural anti-inflammatory properties

3. Bell Peppers

• Packed with antioxidants that support skin and eye health
• Provide a dose of fiber to aid digestion

4. Ginger & Garlic

• Known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits
• Help in digestion and gut health

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is an easy recipe, small mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here’s what to watch out for and how to fix it.

Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Baking Sheet

If you pile all the chicken, veggies, and pineapple too closely together, they will steam instead of roasting. This can lead to soggy vegetables and less caramelization.

Solution:

• Spread everything evenly in a single layer to allow proper roasting.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Marination Step

While this dish works without marination, letting the chicken soak in the marinade for 15-30 minutes improves the depth of flavor.

Solution:

• If you have time, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Mistake 3: Using Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh

Canned pineapple contains extra liquid and added sugar, which can make the dish overly sweet and watery.

Solution:

• Always use fresh pineapple for the best natural sweetness and texture.

Mistake 4: Overcooking the Chicken

Since chicken breast is lean, overcooking can make it dry and tough.

Solution:

• Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes and check doneness at 20 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Mistake 5: Not Tossing the Ingredients Midway

If you don’t mix everything halfway through baking, some ingredients might cook unevenly.

Solution:

• Stir the chicken and vegetables after 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Mistake 6: Forgetting the Broil Step

Forgetting to broil at the end means missing out on extra caramelization and crispiness.

Solution:

• Broil for 3-4 minutes at the end to enhance texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Mastering this easy sheet pan meal comes down to a few extra tricks that can take the flavor and texture to the next level. Here are some pro tips to ensure the best results every time.

1. Use Fresh Pineapple Over Canned

Fresh pineapple caramelizes beautifully in the oven, while canned pineapple contains excess liquid that can make the dish watery. If using canned pineapple, be sure to drain it well and pat it dry before adding it to the pan.

2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

While this dish doesn’t require marination, letting the chicken sit in the sauce for at least 30 minutes will deepen the flavors. For an even better taste, marinate overnight in the fridge.

3. Don’t Skip the Broil Step

Broiling in the last 3-4 minutes adds a light charred effect, making the edges of the chicken, pineapple, and veggies slightly crispy and caramelized. This small step elevates the entire dish.

4. Toss Halfway Through Cooking

Mixing the ingredients halfway through the baking process ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets fully coated in the sauce.

5. Let the Dish Rest Before Serving

Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

How to Store Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

This dish stores well and can be enjoyed as leftovers or meal prep for the week.

Refrigerator Storage

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage

• If freezing, store in portioned airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

How to Reheat Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Reheating the dish properly ensures that the chicken stays moist and the veggies don’t become mushy.

Oven Reheating (Best Method)

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Spread the chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet.
• Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.

Stovetop Reheating

• Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chicken and veggies with a splash of pineapple juice or broth.
• Stir occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes until hot.

Microwave Reheating (Quickest Method)

• Place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.

How to Reheat from Frozen

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the above methods.
• If reheating directly from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs About Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and more flavor due to their higher fat content. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to fully cook.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can chop all the ingredients and make the marinade ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine and bake when ready.

3. What vegetables can I substitute?

You can swap or add:

• Zucchini for a soft, mild texture
• Broccoli for added fiber and crunch
• Carrots for a natural sweetness
• Snow peas for a crisp, fresh taste

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

5. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Increase the heat by:

• Adding extra red pepper flakes
• Mixing in Sriracha or chili paste to the marinade
• Topping with chopped fresh jalapeños before baking

6. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the baking time by 5-7 minutes.

7. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

• Avoid overcooking—check at 20 minutes and remove when the internal temp reaches 165°F.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.

8. What’s the best way to cut pineapple for this dish?

• Use a sharp knife to remove the skin and core.
• Cut into 1-inch chunks to match the size of the chicken pieces.

9. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Instead of baking, sauté the chicken and veggies in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

10. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a game-changer for busy home cooks. It brings together bold tropical flavors, minimal prep work, and easy cleanup in one delicious dish.

Why You Should Try This Recipe:

Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors
Quick and easy – Ready in under 45 minutes
Healthy & nutritious – Packed with lean protein and fiber
Minimal cleanup – One-pan convenience
Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap veggies, or try different proteins

Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, meal prep, or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to meal.

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