Name: Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken That'll Brighten Any Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (main protein source; tender and juicy when baked.); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavor; adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Pepper (enhances flavor; adjust to taste.); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (creates a crispy coating; can substitute with flour.); 2 large Eggs (acts as a binder for the coating.); 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (used for frying to achieve a golden-brown crust.); 1 cup Pineapple Juice (base of the sauce providing sweetness and tang.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (adds sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce.); 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (adds depth and umami without excess salt.); 2 cloves Garlic (freshly minced, adds aromatic flavor.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (for sauce thickening.); 1 cup Red Bell Pepper (adds color and crunch; can substitute with green bell pepper.); 1 cup Pineapple Tidbits (provides bursts of sweetness; use canned or fresh.)

The aroma of sweet and tangy goodness wafts through my kitchen as I prepare a family favorite: Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken. This dish transforms simple chicken into a tropical delight with its vibrant blend of juicy pineapple and colorful bell peppers. What I love most about this easy chicken recipe is not only how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but also how much it pleases the entire family—even the picky eaters! Each bite is a delightful escape, reminiscent of sunny Hawaiian days. Curious how to bring a taste of paradise to your table? Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why is this chicken recipe a must-try?

Family-Friendly Delight: This Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is not just easy to whip up, but it’s also a hit with kids and adults alike, making dinner time stress-free.

Tropical Flavor Bomb: With sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and vibrant bell peppers, your taste buds will be transported straight to Hawaii.

Quick Prep: Ready in just an hour, this recipe saves you valuable time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with loved ones.

Versatile Options: Whether you serve it over rice, quinoa, or fresh greens, this dish complements any side beautifully!

Picky Eater Approved: Even the most selective eaters in your family will be asking for seconds, making it the perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s sure to become a favorite!

Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – main protein source; tender and juicy when baked.
• Salt and Pepper – enhances flavor; adjust to taste for seasoning.
• Cornstarch – creates a crispy coating; can substitute with flour for a different texture.
• Large Eggs – acts as a binder for the coating.
• Vegetable Oil – used for frying to achieve a golden-brown crust; can swap for olive oil.

For the Sauce
• Pineapple Juice – base of the sauce providing sweetness and tang; use fresh juice for more flavor.
• Brown Sugar – adds sweetness to the sauce, balancing the salty soy sauce.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – seasoning that adds depth and umami without excess salt.
• Garlic – freshly minced, adds aromatic flavor to the dish.
• Cornstarch (for sauce thickening) – thickens the sauce for a better texture.

For the Toppings
• Red Bell Pepper – adds color and crunch; can substitute with green bell pepper.
• Pineapple Tidbits – provides bursts of sweetness; use canned or fresh, well-drained.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or non-stick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. This preparation will ensure that your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken cooks evenly and has a perfectly golden finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are uniform for even cooking. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. This step is crucial in creating a well-seasoned base for your dish as you assemble your sweet Hawaiian chicken.

Step 3: Set Up Dredging Station
In one bowl, place enough cornstarch to coat the chicken pieces well; in a separate bowl, beat the large eggs thoroughly. This simple setup facilitates an efficient dredging process, ensuring every bite of chicken will be flavor-packed and crispy once baked.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken and first dredge it in the cornstarch, ensuring a thorough coating. Next, dip the cornstarch-covered chicken in the beaten eggs to create a binding layer. This dual coating creates a crispy texture that is a hallmark of your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, preparing it for frying.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches if necessary, fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown on all sides, taking about 3-4 minutes per side. This initial frying ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside, a must for a delightful meal.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Once browned, carefully transfer the fried chicken pieces to the greased baking dish. Make sure to spread them out evenly for consistent coating later. This step sets the stage for the tangy sauce to be absorbed during baking, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

Step 7: Whisk the Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and a bit of cornstarch for thickening. This sweet and tangy sauce will bring everything together, infusing your chicken with tropical flavors and a luscious texture that complements the crispy coating beautifully.

Step 8: Assemble the Dish
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are coated evenly. Top the dish with chopped red bell pepper and pineapple tidbits for added sweetness and color. This vibrant addition not only enhances presentation but also takes your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Step 9: Bake the Chicken
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour. Make sure to stir the chicken every 15 minutes to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce and not drying out. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Step 10: Let It Rest
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it stand for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a luscious coating over the chicken. Get ready to serve your delicious Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken at the dinner table, where it’s sure to be a hit!

Expert Tips for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Even Cooking: Ensure chicken pieces are cut uniformly so they cook evenly and avoid any dry spots in your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

Crispy Texture: Make sure the cornstarch coating is thorough for maximum crunch. If sticking occurs, try chilling the chicken before frying.

Flavor Boost: Marinate the chicken in the sauce ingredients for at least an hour, or overnight if possible, to infuse deeper flavors into your dish.

Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too runny, don’t hesitate to add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it.

Taste Before Baking: Give the sauce a quick taste before pouring it over the chicken. Adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference for a perfectly balanced dish.

What to Serve with Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

The perfect sides can elevate your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, transforming dinner into a delightful feast for the senses.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully, providing a neutral base that complements the dish.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zingy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Broccoli: The slightly charred, tender florets create a lovely contrast to the sweetness, introducing wholesome flavors and textures to your meal.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Oven-roasted sweet potatoes add a delicious caramelized flavor that harmonizes with the Hawaiian sweetness of the chicken.
Pineapple Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk and pineapple bits, this side mirrors the tropical theme, enhancing the overall dining experience with its tropical flair.
Chilled Mango Salsa: A vibrant salsa made with diced mango, onion, and lime juice offers a zesty kick while enhancing the dish’s sweetness with a tropical twist.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing drink choice, the citrus notes cleanse the palate while harmonizing beautifully with the lush, fruity flavors of the meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cut and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time; simply whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, follow the usual frying and baking instructions, ensuring to stir every 15 minutes for even coverage. This way, you’ll enjoy unrivaled flavors with less hassle, bringing a delightful tropical twist to your family dinner!

Variations & Substitutions for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Feel free to customize this easy chicken recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs; the possibilities are endless!

Spicy Heat: Add sliced jalapeños or a tablespoon of sriracha to the sauce for a flavorful kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu to cater to different diets while still enjoying the tropical flavors.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or even a bed of fresh greens for a wholesome meal that’s both hearty and healthy.
Sweetened Sauce: For a sweeter twist, incorporate a splash of coconut milk in the sauce for added richness and a creamy texture.
Vegetable Medley: Include colorful veggies like snap peas or broccoli to the dish for added nutrition and crunch, making it a more rounded meal.
Pineapple Alternatives: If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple tidbits work perfectly, but ensure they’re well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Citrus Zing: A splash of fresh lime juice added to the sauce can elevate the dish with extra tang and brightness, tantalizing your taste buds.
Asian Fusion: Mix in some sesame oil or even a touch of ginger for an Asian-inspired twist on the classic pineapple chicken dish.

Explore these variations and feel free to experiment until you find the combination that warms your family’s hearts! If you’re looking for serving ideas, consider pairing this delightful chicken with Grilled Chicken Burrito bowls or our creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet for a full tropical experience. Enjoy the culinary journey!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, taking care not to overcook. Enjoy your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken just as delicious as the first day!

Wrapping: If storing in the fridge, cover with plastic wrap or foil to prevent moisture loss, ensuring a juicy result the next time you indulge.

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless skinless chicken breasts, look for those that are firm, pink, and breathe freshness. Avoid any with dark spots or a slimy texture, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken will yield the juiciest and most delicious results!

How should I store leftovers of Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it up. This will help maintain its flavors and texture for a second helping that’s almost as good as the first!

Can I freeze Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool down completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It’s a convenient way to keep meals on hand for busy nights!

What if the sauce isn’t thickening properly?
If your sauce seems too thin while baking, don’t worry! You can make a quick fix by mixing an extra tablespoon of cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce while it’s still cooking in the oven. This will help achieve that luscious thick consistency you’re aiming for!

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you or someone in your family has allergies to gluten, consider using gluten-free soy sauce. For those watching sugar, you can substitute the brown sugar with a sugar alternative. Always double-check the ingredient labels for the best results, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this delicious dish!

Can I customize the toppings for this dish?
Very! Adding sliced jalapeños for some heat or swapping the bell peppers with green ones can give it a different flavor. You can also use fresh herbs for a garnish, or serve it with a side of coconut rice for an even more tropical twist. The more the merrier in this versatile recipe!