Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a popular recipe that combines the flavors of Hawaii with the ease and convenience of a sheet pan dinner. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here's the complete recipe with ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to make it tastier:
**Original Recipe:**
Ingredients:
* 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 1/4 cup pineapple juice
* 2 tbsp brown sugar
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 cup pineapple chunks
* 1 tsp grated ginger
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Cooking Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and olive oil. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy cleanup.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
6. Top the chicken with sliced onions, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper.
7. Add the pineapple chunks and grated ginger on top.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Cover the sheet pan with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
11. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!
**Tips to Make it Tastier:**
* Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeper.
* Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the pineapple and ginger for the best flavor.
* Don't overcrowd the sheet pan, leave some space between the pieces of chicken and vegetables for even cooking.
* Use a combination of light and dark soy sauce for a richer flavor.
* Add some crunch by topping the sheet pan with toasted sesame seeds or chopped macadamia nuts.
**Variations:**
* **Spicy Hawaiian Chicken:** Add some heat by sprinkling a few dashes of red pepper flakes on the chicken before baking.
* **Thai-Inspired Chicken:** Replace the pineapple with fresh mango chunks and add some chopped Thai basil for a Thai-inspired twist.
* **Sweet and Sour Chicken:** Add some sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade) to the marinade for a tangy flavor.
* **Grilled Chicken:** Grill the chicken and vegetables on a preheated grill instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
* **Vegan Option:** Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh and marinate it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
**Ingredients for Variations:**
* For Spicy Hawaiian Chicken: red pepper flakes
* For Thai-Inspired Chicken: fresh mango, Thai basil
* For Sweet and Sour Chicken: sweet and sour sauce
* For Grilled Chicken: none
* For Vegan Option: extra-firm tofu or tempeh
By following this recipe and using the tips and variations, you'll be able to create a delicious and flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan that's perfect for any occasion!