If you’re looking for a meal that combines convenience with incredible flavor, the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is a must-try. This dish is a fusion of savory and sweet, bringing together tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and crisp vegetables, all coated in a luscious teriyaki glaze. The best part? It’s cooked all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and meal prep incredibly simple. Sheet pan meals have gained popularity due to their efficiency and versatility, and this Hawaiian-inspired dish is no exception. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or need a nutritious meal for meal prepping, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
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1/2 cup pineapple chunks, drained
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1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
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1/4 cup honey
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 cup cooked rice
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1/2 cup chopped broccoli
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1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Marinate the chicken slices in this mixture for 15 minutes.
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Arrange the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, cooked rice, chopped broccoli, and red bell pepper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
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Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan meal will become a staple in your home. Here’s why it stands out:
1. Minimal Cleanup
Since everything is cooked on a single sheet pan, you won’t have to deal with a sink full of dishes. Simply line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for even easier cleanup.
2. Packed with Flavor
The combination of teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, and pineapple creates an irresistible balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a taste of the tropics in every bite!
3. Healthy and Nutritious
This dish is loaded with lean protein from the chicken, fiber-rich vegetables, and the natural sweetness of pineapple. It’s a well-rounded meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan meal stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prepping. Cook a batch, divide it into portions, and enjoy delicious, ready-to-go meals throughout the week.
5. Family-Friendly
This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. The sweetness of the pineapple balances out the savory elements, making it a meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
The Inspiration Behind Hawaiian Chicken
Hawaiian cuisine is a beautiful blend of influences from Polynesian, Asian, and American cultures. This dish takes inspiration from the tropical flavors of Hawaii, particularly the popular combination of chicken and pineapple.
Pineapple is a key ingredient in many Hawaiian dishes, adding natural sweetness and a slight tang that pairs well with meats like chicken, pork, and even seafood. The addition of teriyaki sauce brings in a Japanese influence, as teriyaki-based marinades and glazes are commonly used in Hawaiian-style cooking.
This fusion of flavors makes the Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe a unique yet comforting meal, reminiscent of a Hawaiian luau feast but simplified for everyday cooking.
How to Customize Your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Meal
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.
1. Swap the Protein
While chicken is the star of this dish, you can easily swap it for another protein:
- Shrimp – A great alternative that cooks quickly and pairs well with the tropical flavors.
- Tofu – For a vegetarian-friendly version, use tofu marinated in teriyaki sauce.
- Salmon – A seafood twist that works well with pineapple and teriyaki glaze.
2. Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a more subtle sweetness, reduce the honey or opt for a low-sugar teriyaki sauce. You can also add a splash of lime juice to balance out the flavors.
3. Experiment with Vegetables
This recipe calls for bell peppers and broccoli, but you can get creative with your veggie choices:
- Snap peas for added crunch
- Carrots for a slight sweetness
- Zucchini for a mild, tender bite
- Red onions for a bolder flavor
4. Make it Spicier
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
5. Serve It Differently
Instead of serving this dish over rice, try:
- Quinoa for a protein-packed alternative
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Lettuce wraps for a fresh and crunchy take
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Meal
To make sure your meal turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use Fresh Pineapple
While canned pineapple is convenient, fresh pineapple provides a more vibrant and natural sweetness. If using canned pineapple, opt for one packed in natural juice rather than syrup.
2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, marinate it for a few hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Make sure the ingredients are spread out evenly on the sheet pan. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting, which may lead to less caramelization and texture.
4. Stir Halfway Through Cooking
To ensure even cooking, stir the ingredients halfway through baking. This helps the sauce coat everything evenly and prevents sticking.
5. Garnish for Extra Freshness
Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro, green onions, or sesame seeds on top for an added burst of flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Steamed or Coconut Rice – The sweetness of coconut rice complements the flavors beautifully.
- Grilled Pineapple Slices – For an extra tropical touch, grill some pineapple slices and serve them on the side.
- Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – A creamy and slightly tangy pasta salad that balances the sweet and savory notes of the chicken.
- Crispy Wonton Chips – A crunchy side that adds texture to your meal.
Conclusion:
The Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan meal is the perfect combination of convenience, nutrition, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep-friendly option, or a dish that transports you to the flavors of the tropics, this recipe has it all.
By using simple ingredients and a single pan, you can create a delicious, wholesome meal with minimal effort. Plus, with endless customization options, you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a tropical-inspired meal, give this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe a try. Your taste buds and your dishwashing routine will thank you!
