Name: Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken: A Taste of Tropical Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Ensure they're tender.); to taste Salt (Adjust according to taste.); to taste Pepper (Adjust according to taste.); 1 cup Cornstarch (Can substitute with rice flour for gluten-free.); 2 large Eggs (Acts as a binding agent.); as needed tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Use coconut oil for a tropical twist.); 1 cup Pineapple Juice (Fresh juice adds brighter flavor.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Opt for gluten-free if necessary.); 3 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced for enhanced flavor.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Thickens the sauce.); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Can substitute with yellow or green.); 1 cup Pineapple Tidbits (Ensure they are drained.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of pineapple and savory chicken filled the air, instantly transporting me to a sunny Hawaiian beach. My Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken recipe beautifully marries crispy chicken pieces with a luscious, tangy sauce that’s both kid-friendly and comforting. This dish not only offers a quick prep time, making weeknight dinners a breeze, but it also reminds us of cheerful gatherings around the table with our loved ones. With vibrant bell peppers and succulent pineapple enhancing every bite, it’s a delightful main course that promises smiles all around. Are you ready to savor a bite of the tropics right from your home?

Why is this dish a tropical delight?

Ease of Preparation: This recipe is a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory combination is a surefire hit with kids, making family dinners enjoyable for everyone.

Flavor Explosion: Bursting with tropical flavors, the pineapple and bell peppers elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Versatile Serving Options: This Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken can be paired with steaming rice or a fresh salad, making it adaptable to your meal preferences.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will have your friends and family raving about the flavors, just like our Zucchini Sweet Potato Beef Skillet or Jerk Chicken Burritos!

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Ingredients

• A deliciously easy dish to bring a taste of the tropics to your dinner table!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Ensure they’re boneless and skinless for a tender bite!
Salt and Pepper – Adjust according to taste for the perfect seasoning.
Cornstarch – This coating gives the chicken a delightful crisp; substitute with rice flour for gluten-free diets.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent; swap with a mix of water and flaxseed meal for an egg-free option.
Vegetable Oil – Great for frying the chicken; use coconut oil for a tropical twist.

For the Sauce

Pineapple Juice – Adds a sweet tang; fresh juice is perfect for a brighter flavor.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce beautifully; consider honey or maple syrup as alternatives.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami depth; opt for gluten-free if necessary.
Garlic – Freshly minced enhances flavor; don’t skimp on this!
Additional Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to perfection for a glossy finish.

For the Vegetables

Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with yellow or green if desired.
Pineapple Tidbits – The star ingredient for sweetness; ensure they are drained to prevent excess moisture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. This step is essential for a perfect bake, ensuring the Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken will slide out beautifully once it’s ready to serve.

Step 2: Cut and Season Chicken
Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, letting the flavors meld. This basic seasoning enhances the taste of your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, making each bite savory and satisfying.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station
In a small bowl, place cornstarch, which will give your chicken a delightful crispy coating. In another bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly until well combined. This two-step breading station is crucial—dip each piece of chicken first in cornstarch to coat it evenly before drowning it in the egg mixture, ensuring a perfect bind for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying them until they are golden brown—approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Do not overcrowd the skillet to allow for even cooking. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked, as it will finish baking in the oven.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Once golden brown, transfer the partially cooked chicken to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to promote even cooking and a beautiful presentation. This is a vital step in making your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken not only delicious but also visually appealing when served.

Step 6: Whisk the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, freshly minced garlic, and an additional tablespoon of cornstarch. This mixture adds a sweet and tangy flavor profile to your dish that beautifully complements the chicken and will glaze it during baking.

Step 7: Assemble the Dish
Pour the luscious sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring every piece is coated. Then, sprinkle chopped red bell pepper and drained pineapple tidbits on top for added color and sweetness. This step brings together the tropical flavors and vibrant colors, making your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken truly irresistible.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish uncovered in your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. Every 15 minutes, give it a gentle stir to ensure that the sauce evenly coats all the chicken pieces. The goal is a beautifully caramelized exterior and a juicy interior that showcases the delightful blend of flavors.

Step 9: Let Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it stand for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. This resting period is key to enhancing the flavors and ensuring that your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is perfectly juicy when you scoop it onto plates, ready for your family to enjoy.

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own; the possibilities are deliciously endless!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a zesty twist. The heat pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple, creating an exciting balance.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delightful alternative. Both options absorb the tropical flavors well, making them stand out in this dish.
Quinoa Delight: Serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa, adding a nutty flavor and extra protein. Quinoa is a nutritious base that complements the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly.
Coconut Rice: Whip up some coconut rice for a richer, tropical flavor. The creaminess of the coconut melds seamlessly with the sauce, elevating your meal even further.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or a medley of your favorite veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. The dish remains vibrant and packed with flavor while catering to vegetarian diets.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment by adding other fruits like mango or kiwi alongside the pineapple. The new flavors will dance together, making each bite an adventure.
BBQ Twist: Swap out the soy sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist. This variation will result in a sweet and savory dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Summer Salad: Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing take that’s perfect for warmer days, much like a bright summer salad paired with a side of Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

Use these variations to customize your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, and you’ll find something delicious for every palate!

What to Serve with Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Imagine a vibrant family dinner filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of tropical flavors wafting through your home.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy, aromatic rice perfectly absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce, enhancing every bite of chicken.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Complement the dish’s tropical theme with warm, caramelized pineapple that echoes the sweetness in the sauce.
Coconut Rice: The creamy texture and mild sweetness of coconut-infused rice provides a deliciously exotic base for your chicken.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Bright, colorful veggies sautéed in sesame oil not only add crunch but also a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
Tropical Smoothie: A chilled smoothie with mango, banana, and coconut milk makes a refreshing drink that brings island vibes to your meal.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting touch, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, serve this gooey treat; its rich chocolate flavor balances sweet notes from the main dish.

Make Ahead Options

This Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse for a tastier dish. Simply combine the chicken pieces with the sauce ingredients—pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic—and let it soak in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop the bell peppers and drain the pineapple tidbits a day before serving. To reheat, just bake it in the oven as per the original instructions, stirring every 15 minutes for even coating. With this prep, you’ll enjoy a homemade tropical delight on those busy weeknights with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Proper Coating: Ensure chicken is well-coated in cornstarch before frying; this helps achieve the crispy texture that makes Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken so enjoyable.
Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, work in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of fry, resulting in a less crispy finish.
Resting Time: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, enhancing the overall taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh pineapple juice and minced garlic for the sauce to elevate the flavors of your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken and keep it fresher.
Monitor Baking: Stir every 15 minutes while baking to ensure even coating with the sauce, giving each bite that sweet and tangy goodness.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help retain its sweet and tangy flavor.

Freezer: If you want to freeze it, place properly portioned chicken in a freezer-safe container, sealing tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: To reheat, transfer the thawed chicken to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F (165°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring it heats through without drying out.

Quality Check: Always ensure to check for any signs of freezer burn or spoilage before reheating to enjoy the best flavor experience.

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pineapples for this dish?
When selecting pineapples, look for ones that are firm and have a sweet aroma at the base. The leaves should be vibrant green and not wilted. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or bruising, as this indicates overripeness. Especially when using canned pineapple, choose products packed in juice or light syrup for better flavor and quality.

How long can I store Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in the fridge?
You can store leftover Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. Reheating in the oven will help restore its texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely and then portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as instructed to keep it juicy.

What should I do if the chicken is not crispy after baking?
If the chicken doesn’t turn out crispy, it could be due to overcrowding during frying or not enough oil used. For best results, ensure the chicken is coated well with cornstarch and avoid placing too many pieces in the skillet at once. If already baked, you could crisp it up again by broiling it for a few minutes until the desired crunchiness is achieved, keeping a close watch to avoid burning.

Is Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken safe for my kids with allergies?
This dish can be made more allergy-friendly! Substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free option if your child has gluten sensitivities. For egg allergies, using a mix of water and flaxseed meal will help bind the chicken without adding allergens. Always check labels on pre-packaged items to ensure they meet your family’s dietary needs.