Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Name: Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 small red onion, cut into wedges; 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional); ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup pineapple juice; 3 tbsp honey (or brown sugar); 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thickening)

Posted on February 27, 2026

Oven-baked Hawaiian chicken sheet pan with colorful veggies and pineapple

Dinner

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

Table of Contents

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan: A Tropical Flavor Adventure

Aloha, food lovers! If you’re looking for a meal that dances on your taste buds and takes you on a mini-vacation without leaving your kitchen, then you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’ll be making a tantalizing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, colorful veggies, and a hint of sun-soaked paradise. 🍍✨

There’s nothing quite like the simplicity and ease of a sheet pan dinner. You cut, toss, and slide it into the oven, and voila—dinner is done! This Hawaiian Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and maybe even a hula dance or two! Trust me, once you serve this vibrant dish, your family and friends will be clamoring for the recipe and possibly planning their next Hawaiian getaway!

This dish is packed with bite-sized chicken pieces, crisp bell peppers, zesty pineapple, and a sweet-savory glaze that ties it all together. It’s a celebration of flavors that showcases my love for blending Southern roots with global culinary inspirations—think that irresistible combination of comforting and adventurous! So grab your apron, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s dive into this delicious tropical escapade. 🌴🍽️

Personal Story

Growing up, my family had a tradition of hosting “Hawaiian Nights” during the summer months. My aunt would throw together a feast inspired by her many trips to the islands. I still vividly remember sitting on the patio, surrounded by tropical decorations, as the scent of grilled chicken melded beautifully with that of fresh pineapple. It was magical! 🌺

One summer evening, my cousin and I decided to play chef. We donned our aprons and rushed to the kitchen, determined to recreate that unforgettable dish. Let’s just say, we learned a lot! Between the inevitable pineapple fights and a few charred edges, we crafted a concoction that made everyone laugh. Though my chicken was a bit more “experimentally” grilled than planned, the memories we made that night were worth more than a five-star meal.

That spirit of creativity and fun is at the heart of this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe. Each time I make it, I’m transported back to those summer nights filled with laughter, family, and tropical dreams. So, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, I invite you to make your own delicious memories in the kitchen with this dish!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan:

1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Tips: Chicken thighs can work as an alternative for more juicy cuts. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
1 red bell pepper, chopped
Insight: Red peppers add a sweet crunch! For a different flavor profile, use jalapeños for some heat.
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
Substitution: Swap with green bell peppers for a slight bitterness or use colored sweet mini peppers for variety.
1 small red onion, cut into wedges
Note: Red onions bring sweetness. Use yellow or white onions for a more robust flavor.
1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
Chef Insight: Fresh pineapple enhances the dish with a juicy sweetness, while canned is a convenient alternative—just make sure it’s in juice, not syrup.
2 tbsp olive oil
Tip: You can substitute with melted coconut oil for a tropical vibe!
2 cloves garlic, minced
Substitution: Use ½ tsp garlic powder if you’re in a pinch, but fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor.
½ tsp salt
Note: Adjust to your taste; you can omit if you’re watching sodium.
½ tsp black pepper
Insight: Freshly ground black pepper can elevate the flavor dramatically!
½ tsp paprika
Tip: Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of flavor, giving the dish a subtle smokiness.
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Insight: A little kick can elevate the dish, but feel free to omit for a milder flavor.

Sauce Ingredients:

⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
Note: Use tamari for a gluten-free option!
¼ cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
Substitution: Orange juice can work in a pinch!
3 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
Chef Insight: Honey gives a floral sweetness, while brown sugar offers a deep caramel flavor.
2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
Tip: The vinegar adds great acidity and balance; white vinegar can also work but may be stronger.
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thickening)
Note: This helps create a thicker sauce; omit if you prefer a lighter glaze!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the chicken gets a nice caramelization while the veggies remain vibrantly crisp!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, toss your chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and chili flakes until everything is well-coated. Chef Hack: For maximum flavor, let this marinate while you chop your veggies.

Step 3: Load Up the Pan

Spread the marinated chicken evenly on a large sheet pan. Ensure there’s space between the pieces for that golden-brown magic to happen. Now, toss the chopped bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple chunks around the chicken on the pan. Quick Tip: Use parchment paper for easy clean-up!

Step 4: Whisk Up the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and rice vinegar. This is where the magic happens! If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water in a separate cup and whisk it into the sauce. Pour this heavenly mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything’s well-coated.

Step 5: Into the Oven

Pop your sheet pan into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Expert Tip: If you want a little char, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Your chicken should be fully cooked (165°F or 74°C at its thickest point) and the veggies tender yet still vibrant. If you’re unsure, check a piece of chicken!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes while you prepare to plate. This allows the juices to redistribute and create succulent bites.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, scoop out portions onto plates or into bowls, making sure to include a generous helping of the caramelized veggies and pineapple. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top for added flavor. Pair with a scoop of fluffy rice or quinoa for a full meal experience. For an extra tropical touch, garnish with some fresh cilantro or green onions! 🌿🍚

Recipe Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the base Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan, let’s have some fun with variations!

Teriyaki Style: Swap the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter twist.
Tropical Veggies: Toss in some zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Spicy Hawaiian: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for heat.
Coconut Rice: Serve it over coconut-infused rice for that true island vibe!
Vegan Twist: Substitute chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Chef’s Notes

Oh, where do I begin with the memories tied to this dish? The beauty of sheet pan meals is their adaptability. One day, you might be craving a little sweetness; the next, perhaps a bit of a kick. This recipe has morphed from a family barbecue staple to a go-to weeknight dinner dish in my home. Plus, it always evokes those beautiful summer nights surrounded by family and friends!

In my early “chef” days, I remember a friend suggested tossing everything in the same bowl before baking, which was a disaster! But it tasted perfectly fine—just a mess. Now, I opt for separate layers on the sheet pan. Oh, the joys of learning through cooking!

FAQs and Troubleshooting

What if my chicken is too dry?
Make sure to use a meat thermometer next time to avoid overcooking. Aim for 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part!
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything a day ahead and then pop it in the oven when ready. Just marinate the chicken overnight.
Why didn’t my sauce thicken?
Ensure you thoroughly mixed the cornstarch slurry into the sauce before adding it to the pan. If it’s still thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes post-cooking!
What sides pair well?
Coconut rice, a simple salad, or cauliflower rice are all excellent choices to complement this dish!

Nutritional Info

Here’s a quick rundown of the nutritional information for one serving (based on four servings):

Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 12g

This dish packs a nutritious punch while keeping it all delicious and satisfying! Feel free to swap in more veggies to boost those nutrients!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should always be a joyful adventure, and I hope this Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan recipe inspires you to create memories just like the ones I cherish. It’s bold, colorful, and absolutely satisfying—just what I love about food! So gather your loved ones, throw on some island tunes, and get ready for a feast that will transport you straight to the shores of Hawaii.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful journey with me! I can’t wait to hear how your Hawaiian Chicken turns out. Remember to tag me in your kitchen creations, and let’s continue to make cooking fun and flavorful, one dish at a time! Now, get out there and make some magical, mouthwatering memories! 🍍🍗🌺