Save This juicy Hawaiian Sheet Pan Chicken has become my tropical escape on busy weeknights. The combination of sweet pineapple, colorful vegetables, and tangy glaze transforms ordinary chicken into something magical—all while keeping cleanup to a minimum with just one pan.
I first created this recipe during a particularly cold winter when my family was desperately craving something that reminded us of vacation. The vibrant colors and tropical flavors instantly transported us to Hawaii, and it has since become our favorite mood-boosting meal.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: create the juiciest result as they stay tender even with high heat roasting
- Red and yellow bell peppers: add sweetness and vibrant color choose firm peppers with glossy skin
- Red onion: provides a subtle sharpness that balances the sweet elements
- Sugar snap peas: offer a fresh crunch and bright green color look for firm crisp pods
- Fresh pineapple chunks: caramelize beautifully in the oven fresh is best but drained canned works in a pinch
- Low sodium soy sauce: forms the savory base of our glaze using low sodium lets you control the salt level
- Honey: adds natural sweetness and helps create caramelization
- Rice vinegar: brings necessary acidity to balance the sweet components
- Toasted sesame oil: delivers deep nutty flavor a little goes a long way
- Fresh garlic and ginger: provide aromatic complexity always use fresh for the brightest flavor
- Chili flakes: add customizable heat adjust to your preference
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. The high temperature ensures caramelization while the parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Make sure your sheet pan has a rim to contain any juices.
- Create the Tropical Glaze:
- In a bowl whisk together soy sauce honey rice vinegar sesame oil minced garlic grated ginger and chili flakes until completely combined. This multi dimensional glaze will infuse every component with flavor while creating a gorgeous glossy finish. The honey helps everything caramelize beautifully.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Arrange the chicken thighs on your prepared sheet pan with a bit of space between each piece. Using a pastry brush generously coat both sides of the chicken with half of your prepared glaze making sure to get into all the crevices. The chicken will absorb these flavors as it cooks.
- Arrange the Vegetables and Pineapple:
- Distribute the bell peppers red onion sugar snap peas and pineapple chunks evenly around the chicken avoiding overcrowding. Try to create a single layer so everything roasts properly rather than steams. Pour the remaining glaze over all the vegetables and pineapple ensuring everything gets coated.
- Roast to Perfection:
- Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables should become tender with caramelized edges. The pineapple will soften and release its sweet juices which mingle with the glaze to create an incredible sauce.
- Optional Broil for Color:
- For an extra touch of caramelization switch your oven to broil for the final 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning as the sugars in the glaze can darken quickly. This step creates those irresistible charred bits that add texture and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds. The heat will release the aromatic oils in the cilantro and slightly toast the seeds further. Serve hot over jasmine rice which soaks up all the delicious pan juices.
Save Pineapple is truly the star ingredient in this dish. Beyond its tropical sweetness it contains bromelain an enzyme that helps tenderize the chicken naturally. My daughter who normally picks around vegetables always cleans her plate when I make this meal claiming the pineapple makes everything taste better.
Make Ahead Options
This sheet pan dinner is perfect for meal prep. You can chop all vegetables and prepare the glaze up to two days ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can even marinate the chicken in some of the glaze overnight for deeper flavor. When ready to cook simply assemble on your sheet pan and pop it in the oven for a nearly effortless dinner.
Flavor Variations
Hawaiian cuisine is all about fusion flavors which makes this recipe incredibly adaptable. For a spicier version add a tablespoon of sriracha to the glaze. For more umami depth try adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce. You can create a sweeter profile by brushing the chicken with a mixture of pineapple juice and brown sugar during the last five minutes of cooking. Each variation maintains the tropical essence while offering a new taste experience.
Serving Suggestions
While jasmine rice is the perfect canvas for this colorful dish consider these other serving options. Coconut rice adds another layer of tropical flavor that complements the pineapple beautifully. For a lower carb option serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For a complete luau experience pair with traditional Hawaiian sides like macaroni salad or quick pickled cucumbers.
Sheet Pan Success Tips
The secret to perfect sheet pan dinners is understanding cooking times. Cut faster cooking vegetables like sugar snap peas slightly larger and slower cooking items like onions slightly smaller. This ensures everything finishes cooking at the same time. Always use a sheet pan with a rim to contain juices and avoid overcrowding which leads to steaming instead of roasting. For the crispiest results pat chicken dry before adding glaze and ensure vegetables are completely dry after washing.
Save This sheet pan wonder is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a taste of the tropics. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and minimal cleanup!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted. Adjust baking time to prevent overcooking, as they cook faster than thighs.
- → Should I marinate the chicken for more flavor?
Marinating the chicken in the glaze for up to two hours before baking adds depth of flavor but is optional for a quick meal.
- → Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap out the chicken for firm tofu and follow the same preparation steps for a vegetarian option.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
Jasmine rice is a great pairing, but you can also serve it with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter side.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Let leftovers cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of chili flakes in the glaze or add sliced fresh chilies before roasting for extra heat.