There’s something wonderfully effortless about a Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan meal, isn’t there? It’s one of those dishes that feels like a mini vacation on a plate—sweet pineapple, tender chicken, and just the right hint of tangy soy sauce all roasting together in one pan. Growing up in southern England, my family never had anything quite this tropical, but since moving to sunny San Diego and becoming a mom, I’ve come to love how easy, bright, and comforting this kind of recipe can be. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want to serve something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen, and it always brings a little joy to our dinner table.
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Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks who want flavor and simplicity in one go. First, it’s incredibly hands-off—once you’ve prepped the ingredients, the oven does most of the work, freeing you up to tackle other things (or sneak a moment with a cup of tea). Second, the combination of juicy pineapple and savory chicken hits a perfect balance of sweet and salty, a contrast I’ve learned to appreciate after years of experimenting with flavors in restaurant kitchens. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, especially for little ones like mine who love dipping pieces into their favorite sauces. I can’t tell you how many times this sheet pan has saved dinner time, turning hectic evenings into moments of connection.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that balance freshness and flavor. Whenever I cook, I look for vibrant pineapples—fresh if possible, but canned works in a pinch when life gets busy. The chicken needs to be juicy and tender, so I prefer using bone-in, skin-on thighs to lock in moisture, but boneless breasts can work too if that’s what you have on hand. Choosing quality soy sauce and fresh garlic can really elevate the final taste, so don’t skip those small details.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or fresh cilantro
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g (mostly from chicken skin and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g (from pineapple and honey)
- Sodium: 550mg (can be reduced with low-sodium soy sauce)
Easy and Flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Learn how to make delicious Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that balance freshness and flavor. Whenever I cook, I look for vibrant pineapples—fresh if possible, but canned works in a pinch when life gets busy. The chicken needs to be juicy and tender, so I prefer using bone-in, skin-on thighs to lock in moisture, but boneless breasts can work too if that’s what you have on hand. Choosing quality soy sauce and fresh garlic can really elevate the final taste, so don’t skip those small details.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This marinade doubles as your glaze, packing in the flavor.
- Place the chicken thighs on the sheet pan skin-side up. Brush half of the marinade generously over the chicken.
- Arrange pineapple chunks, red bell pepper slices, and red onion wedges around the chicken on the pan.
- Drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables and pineapple, tossing gently with your hands or a spoon to coat everything evenly.
- Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with pan juices for extra moisture.
- For a caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This marinade doubles as your glaze, packing in the flavor.
- Place the chicken thighs on the sheet pan skin-side up. Brush half of the marinade generously over the chicken.
- Arrange pineapple chunks, red bell pepper slices, and red onion wedges around the chicken on the pan.
- Drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables and pineapple, tossing gently with your hands or a spoon to coat everything evenly.
- Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with pan juices for extra moisture.
- For a caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Getting this dish just right is about technique and ingredient harmony, which I’ve fine-tuned over many dinners with my family. The magic is in that perfect bake time and balancing moisture with caramelization.
- Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juicier chicken—boneless tends to dry out faster under high heat.
- Don’t skip the broil step at the end; it crisps the skin and caramelizes the pineapple beautifully.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes if you have time—it deepens the flavor without extra fuss.
- Keep an eye on the sheet pan—pineapple sugars can burn quickly under broil, so timing is key.
- Feel free to swap pineapple for mango or add sliced jalapeños for a little heat if that’s your vibe.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: Easy Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe for a Flavor-Packed Dinner
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a laid-back weekend meal. The tropical vibe brings a little sunshine to any table, which I find especially lovely during San Diego’s cooler evenings.
- Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for an authentic island feel.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lime.
- Add a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the pineapple.
- For a heartier meal, toss in roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed greens on the side.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress with its bright flavors and easy prep. My kids love it, especially my little one who insists on double-dipping pineapple pieces into ketchup—go figure!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish, which is a real bonus when juggling family life and work.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the chicken skin from getting soggy.
- If using a microwave, cover loosely and add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
- Leftover pineapple and veggies can be eaten cold or warmed, making them great for quick lunches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
The main ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
The total time to make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan ahead of time?
Yes, Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan?
Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe inspires you to embrace easy, joyful cooking that brings your family together. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a mini celebration every time we eat it, and I’d love to hear how it fits into your kitchen stories. Happy cooking, and welcome to the art of easy!
