Description
Craving a vibrant, tropical-inspired meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is your perfect go-to! This one-pan dish combines tender, marinated chicken with sweet pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and savory red onions, all roasted to caramelized perfection. The simple soy sauce marinade, infused with garlic and paprika, ties it all together with a balance of smoky, salty, and sweet notes. Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, this recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein
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Chicken Breast (2 lbs, diced): Provides lean, tender protein that absorbs the marinade well.
Vegetables and Fruit
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Bell Pepper (1 large, chopped): Adds vibrant color, mild sweetness, and crunch.
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Red Onion (1 medium, chopped): Contributes savory depth and slight sweetness when roasted.
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Pineapple Chunks (2 cups, fresh or canned, drained): Brings tropical sweetness and juicy texture.
Marinade
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Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): Delivers salty, umami flavor to balance the pineapple’s sweetness.
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Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Helps the marinade coat the chicken and promotes browning.
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Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Infuses savory, aromatic flavor.
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Paprika (1 tsp): Adds smoky warmth and subtle color.
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Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhance overall flavors.
Substitutions and Variations
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Chicken: Swap for chicken thighs (roast 5 minutes longer), shrimp (roast 8–10 minutes), or tofu for vegetarian (roast 15–20 minutes).
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Bell Pepper: Use green, yellow, or orange bell peppers, or substitute with zucchini or mushrooms.
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Pineapple: Replace with mango or peaches for a different tropical twist; ensure canned fruit is well-drained.
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Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free or lower-sodium options.
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Paprika: Swap for smoked paprika for extra smokiness or chili powder for a mild kick.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos.
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Add-Ins: Include 1 cup broccoli florets, carrots, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
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Beginner Tip: Allow the oven to fully preheat for consistent results; use an oven thermometer if needed.
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Create the Marinade:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Beginner Tip: Whisk thoroughly to blend flavors; taste and adjust salt sparingly, as soy sauce is salty.
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Marinate the Chicken:
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Add 2 lbs diced chicken breast to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
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Let marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor.
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Beginner Tip: Dice chicken into 1-inch pieces for even cooking; stir halfway through marinating to ensure full coverage.
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Prep the Vegetables and Pineapple:
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Chop 1 large bell pepper and 1 medium red onion into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch).
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If using fresh pineapple, cut 2 cups into chunks; if canned, drain well to avoid excess liquid.
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Beginner Tip: Cut ingredients uniformly for even roasting; pat canned pineapple dry to prevent a soggy dish.
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Assemble on the Sheet Pan:
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On a large sheet pan (lined with parchment or foil for easier cleanup, if desired), spread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks in a single layer.
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Ensure pieces are not overcrowded to promote even browning.
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Beginner Tip: Use a large enough pan (18×13 inches) to avoid steaming; toss ingredients in the marinade bowl first for even coating.
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Roast to Perfection:
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Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing gently with a spatula halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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The dish is done when the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the vegetables are tender with slightly caramelized edges.
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Beginner Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate chicken doneness; check pineapple for slight browning for optimal flavor.
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Serve and Savor:
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Remove the pan from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Serve hot over cooked rice, quinoa, or as a standalone dish, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro.
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Beginner Tip: Fluff rice before serving for a light base; scoop portions carefully to include chicken, veggies, and pineapple in each serving.
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Cooking Tips
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Chicken Prep: Dice chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking; pat dry before marinating for better marinade adhesion.
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Pineapple Choice: Fresh pineapple offers brighter flavor, but canned (in juice, not syrup) works well; drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
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Even Roasting: Spread ingredients in a single layer and avoid piling; use two sheet pans if needed for larger batches.
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Marinade Timing: Don’t marinate longer than 1 hour, as soy sauce can make chicken too salty or soft.
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Flavor Boost: Add a splash of pineapple juice (1 tbsp) to the marinade for extra tropical sweetness, or sprinkle with sesame seeds after roasting.