Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken
This Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken is a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. With chunks of juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers, it’s a quick, healthy dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Protein & Produce:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients for the marinade:
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Sesame oil (if using)
- Garlic powder
- Ginger powder
- Red pepper flakes (if desired for a spicy kick).
Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Season the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken chunks, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Combine with Marinade
Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss well to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Assemble on Sheet Pan
Spread the chicken, pineapple, and vegetables onto the prepared sheet pan in a single, even layer.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even cooking. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is slightly caramelized.
- For extra browning and caramelization, switch to the broil setting for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
- Add More Veggies: Try adding zucchini, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for variety.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken is a crowd-pleaser with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings!