Hawaiian Chicken with Pineapple

Sweet, savory, and full of tropical flavor, Hawaiian Chicken is a delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, caramelized vegetables, and juicy pineapple in every bite. The balance between the natural sweetness of pineapple and the rich, savory marinade creates a satisfying combination that feels both comforting and refreshing.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, flavorful, and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, everything comes together on a single sheet pan, making cleanup just as effortless as the cooking process. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as it reheats well and maintains its flavor and texture.

Whether served over warm jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even alongside fresh greens, this Hawaiian Chicken delivers a complete and nourishing meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1½ lb (about 3–4 pieces) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
• 1½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Hawaiian Marinade / Sauce

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for a thicker glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. For a thicker glaze, mix in the cornstarch until smooth.
3. Marinate the chicken
   Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and toss them with half of the sauce. Let the chicken marinate for 15–30 minutes, or longer in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
4. Assemble the dish
   Spread the marinated chicken, sliced bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil and gently toss to coat.
5. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning the ingredients halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly caramelized around the edges.
6. Finish with glaze
   During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush or drizzle the remaining sauce over the chicken and vegetables to create a glossy, flavorful finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Hawaiian Chicken over steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a classic pairing. For a lighter option, it can also be served over fresh greens or alongside roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines sweet and savory elements in a perfectly balanced way. With its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that fits effortlessly into any weekly meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, this dish offers a satisfying and delicious experience every time.