
The bright flavors in this Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken instantly take me back to vacations by the ocean—sweet pineapple with savory chicken all roasted together on one pan for the easiest dinner that feels like a tropical escape. If you love vibrant, colorful meals that come together in a snap without a fuss, this one is a weeknight game changer.
The first time I tried this, my whole family raved about the caramelized bits on the pineapple and how everything just soaked up the sauce. Now I make double just for leftovers.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: brings lean protein and stays juicy when roasted cut into even pieces for best cooking
- Bell pepper: gives crunch and color choose one that feels firm and glossy for the brightest results
- Red onion: adds a gentle bite deep purple onions tend to be sweeter and look beautiful after roasting
- Pineapple chunks: yield sweetness and tang choose ripe fruit with golden skin or use good-quality canned juice packed pineapple
- Soy sauce: offers umami depth pick a naturally brewed brand for best results
- Olive oil: helps everything caramelize evenly on the pan look for extra virgin for best flavor
- Minced garlic: gives aroma and complexity use fresh or pre-minced to taste
- Salt and pepper: round out all flavors start light and adjust to preference
- Cooked rice: delivers a comforting base use jasmine or brown rice for a subtle nutty edge
- Chopped green onions: provide a pop of color and fresh finish crisp ones with vibrant green tops are best
- Sesame seeds: add nutty crunch toast briefly in a dry skillet for extra depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Get the oven heating to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit which sets the stage for beautiful caramelization and even cooking
- Prep the Sheet Pan:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to avoid sticking and to make cleanup effortless
- Mix the Chicken and Veggies:
- Place chicken breast pieces, sliced bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks in a large bowl mix gently so the pieces stay even and do not bruise
- Make the Simple Marinade:
- Whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until the mixture looks glossy and ingredients are evenly blended
- Combine Everything:
- Pour the marinade over chicken and vegetables toss with clean hands or tongs until each piece glistens and is perfectly seasoned
- Spread on the Pan:
- Take care to lay everything in a single layer giving space around the pieces so you get crisp edges rather than steaming
- Bake the Flavor In:
- Slide the sheet pan into the oven and roast for twenty to twenty five minutes keep an eye after twenty minutes to catch that perfect juicy chicken and golden vegetables
- Finish and Garnish:
- Once chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender remove the pan top with green onions and sesame seeds for a finishing touch
- Serve Over Rice:
- Spoon the hot mixture over cooked rice the juices will soak in and bring all the flavors together

You Must Know
- Naturally gluten free if using tamari instead of soy sauce
- Great for meal prep since leftovers reheat well
- Easy to double for a crowd or make ahead for the week
Whenever I pull this from the oven the scent of roasted pineapple is unbeatable that caramelizing sweetness is my favorite part The way it mingles with savory flavors brings back memories of family nights around the dinner table laughing and sneaking bites before serving
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers Refrigerate for up to three days Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat for the best texture The pineapple keeps the chicken moist even after reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Try boneless chicken thighs for a richer result or swap the protein for tofu if you want a plant-based version Red bell peppers are classic but orange or yellow also add great color If you are in a pinch canned pineapple works beautifully just be sure to drain it

Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed jasmine or coconut rice for extra tropical flavor Consider a quick cucumber salad or a few fresh lime wedges on the side Roasted broccoli or snap peas pair well too My kids love this rolled up in wraps for lunch the next day
Cultural Inspiration
Pineapple chicken dishes are a beloved part of Hawaiian-inspired home cooking blending Asian soy flavors with tropical fruit The spirit of aloha means sharing generous festive meals like this that make everyone feel welcome The convenience of a sheet pan adds a new world twist
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure fully cooked meat.
- → What type of pineapple is best for this dish?
Fresh pineapple offers the best flavor, but canned pineapple chunks (drained) are a convenient alternative.
- → Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Chop the chicken and vegetables up to a day in advance, then combine with sauce just before baking for optimal freshness.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Steamed white rice is classic, but brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are also delicious options.