Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

This sheet pan pineapple chicken has become my go-to dinner for hectic weeknights when I need something delicious that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet pineapple, tangy BBQ sauce, and savory chicken creates a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

I created this recipe during a particularly busy season when my family was craving something different from our usual rotation. The first time I made it, my picky eater asked for thirds and now specifically requests "that pineapple chicken thing" at least once a week.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs: chicken thighs will give you more flavor and stay juicier, but breast works perfectly for a leaner option
• Fresh or canned pineapple chunks: fresh provides slightly better caramelization, but canned is perfectly fine and more convenient
• Bell peppers: adds gorgeous color and sweetness as they roast
• Red onion: becomes deliciously sweet when roasted and provides depth of flavor
• BBQ sauce: creates the perfect sticky glaze – use your favorite brand
• Garlic cloves: always use fresh for the best flavor punch
• Salt and pepper: critical for properly seasoning the chicken
• Rice for serving: soaks up all the delicious sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Ingredients:

Start by cutting chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces about 1-inch square so they cook evenly. Chop pineapple into chunks if using fresh. Cut bell peppers into roughly 1-inch pieces and chop the red onion into segments that will roast nicely. Having everything prepped before cooking makes assembly quick and stress-free.

Season The Chicken:

Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and season generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning at this stage as it builds the foundation of flavor. Make sure to toss well so each piece gets properly seasoned.

Combine Everything:

Add the chopped pineapple, bell peppers, onion, BBQ sauce, and grated garlic to the bowl with the chicken. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated with the sauce. The BBQ sauce works as both a marinade and a cooking sauce, infusing everything with flavor.

Arrange On Sheet Pan:

Line your sheet pan with foil for easier cleanup or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the chicken mixture in a single even layer across the pan. Avoid overcrowding which would cause steaming instead of roasting. Make sure pieces aren't piled on top of each other.

Bake To Perfection:

Place in the preheated 400°F oven and bake for 30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the edges of the vegetables will begin to caramelize. The sauce will thicken and become sticky as it bakes, creating a wonderful glaze on everything.

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The pineapple is truly the star ingredient in this dish. When it roasts, the natural sugars caramelize creating these incredible sweet pockets that complement the savory chicken perfectly. My daughter always picks out all the pineapple pieces first, which is why I started adding extra just for her.

Make-Ahead Magic

This sheet pan dinner is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in a large ziplock bag and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The extra marinating time actually improves the flavor as the chicken absorbs more of the sauce. When you're ready to cook, simply pour everything onto your sheet pan and bake as directed.

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Perfect Pairings

While rice is our family's preferred base for this dish, there are many ways to serve it. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice. The chicken and veggies also work beautifully stuffed into warm flour tortillas with a sprinkle of cheese for tropical-inspired tacos. For an extra fancy presentation, serve the mixture in hollowed-out pineapple halves for a restaurant-worthy dinner party dish.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe is incredibly adaptable. For a spicy version, add a tablespoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce. For a more tropical flavor, try adding a tablespoon of coconut milk and some fresh lime juice. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what's in season or what your family prefers. Broccoli, zucchini, or sweet potatoes all work wonderfully with the flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works great! It adds a natural sweetness to the dish. Just ensure the chunks are similar in size for even cooking.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky or tangy BBQ sauce complements the sweetness of the pineapple well. Feel free to use your favorite variety!

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute. They tend to remain juicier during cooking compared to breast meat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ What can I serve this with besides rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Combine all the raw ingredients in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking as directed.