Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Dinner
A tropical blend of sweet pineapple, tender chicken, and vibrant bell peppers, this Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Dinner is an easy and delightful weeknight meal with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small red onion (sliced into chunky wedges)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cloves of garlic (finely minced)
- 1.5 cups chopped pineapple (fresh or canned and drained)
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces (approx. 700 grams)
Sauce
- 0.25 cup pineapple juice (from canned fruit or freshly pressed)
- 3 tablespoons honey or packed brown sugar
- 0.5 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 0.75 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional for thickening)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon ground paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing the surface.
- Evenly arrange the chicken pieces, bell peppers, red onion wedges, and pineapple chunks across the baking tray.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients. Scatter the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and chili flakes on top. Use a spatula or your hands to gently toss everything until it is uniformly coated.
Cooking
- Place the tray in the preheated oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the contents halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the vegetables should be tender.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and vinegar. Whisk continuously and allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for an additional minute or two until the sauce becomes glossy and slightly thickened.
- Once the sheet pan ingredients are fully cooked, remove them from the oven. Drizzle the warm sauce over the chicken and vegetables, or serve it on the side as a dipping option.
- For a finishing touch, garnish with thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Notes
Tips: Don’t overcrowd the tray, check temperature with a meat thermometer, and use fresh ingredients for better flavor. Variations include adding more vegetables or using different proteins.