Nothing beats the convenience of a sheet pan dinner, especially one bursting with tropical flavors! This Easy Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner combines juicy chicken thighs with sweet pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and a tangy-salty glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a balanced, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional garnish: chopped green onions, sesame seeds

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
Assemble the sheet pan: Arrange chicken thighs on the sheet pan with bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks. Drizzle the sauce over everything, making sure the chicken is coated evenly. Toss vegetables gently to coat.
Bake: Place sheet pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender.
Broil for caramelization: Optional – switch to broil for 2–3 minutes to slightly caramelize the chicken and pineapple for extra flavor. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Sheet Pan Dinner

Chicken Choice: Bone-in chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time will increase by 10–15 minutes.
Pineapple Selection: Fresh pineapple adds a bright flavor, while canned is convenient and just as tasty.
Vegetable Variations: Swap bell peppers with zucchini, carrots, or snap peas to customize your dish.
Marinate Ahead: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking.
Prevent soggy veggies: Cut vegetables uniformly and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Fun Facts About Hawaiian Chicken

Hawaiian-style chicken is inspired by the blend of tropical fruits and savory marinades typical of Hawaiian cuisine. Pineapple, a staple in Hawaiian recipes, adds natural sweetness and acidity that tenderizes the meat while creating a caramelized glaze during baking. This fusion of flavors became popular in the U.S. in the 20th century and continues to delight weeknight dinner lovers with its vibrant presentation and easy preparation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
Add a side of garlic butter noodles for a comforting, kid-friendly twist.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped macadamia nuts for added crunch.

Variations

Spicy Hawaiian Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Sheet Pan for Two: Reduce chicken to 2 thighs and halve vegetables for smaller portions.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

This Easy Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is the perfect mix of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. With its vibrant colors, juicy chicken, and sweet pineapple glaze, it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or simply craving a tropical-inspired dinner, this recipe is your go-to weeknight winner.