This quick and easy Hawaiian Chicken Dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you're looking to make something the entire family will love, but that doesn't take up a lot of time, energy, or ingredients.
Juicy chicken, pineapples, and bell peppers simmer to perfection in a delicious sweet, tangy, and savory sauce that will everyone reach for seconds.
Why This Hawaiian Chicken Recipe Works
FLAVORFUL - The combination of sweet pineapple, savory sauce, and succulent chicken makes this dish a flavor explosion. It's sweet, a bit tangy, and savory.
EASY TO PREPARE - With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. And if you're really busy, you can always use your slow cooker for a quick set-it-and-forget-it meal.
HEALTHY - This recipe is packed with protein, vitamins, and fibers, making it a wholesome meal option.
Ingredients
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
CHICKEN BREASTS - The star of the recipe, providing lean protein. I used boneless skinless chicken breasts, but you could also use skinless chicken thighs.
PINEAPPLE - Adds a sweet and tangy kick to the dish. I used canned pineapple chunks. But you can also use fresh pineapple slices.
BELL PEPPERS - Offer a crunch and vitamin boost.
BROWN SUGAR - Balances the savory elements with sweetness.
SOY SAUCE - Infuses the dish with a delightful umami flavor.
KETCHUP - Enhances the tanginess of the dish.
GINGER - Imparts a warm and spicy zest.
GARLIC - Deepens the flavor profile with its pungent, savory notes.
How To Make A Super Easy Hawaiian Chicken
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Brown, the chicken in a large skillet, then set it aside.
- Sauté bell peppers in the same pan, then add pineapple chunks.
- Mix in the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, ginger, and garlic.
- Return the chicken to the pan, simmer until the sauce thickens.
Recipe Success Tips
QUALITY CHICKEN - Opt for fresh, organic chicken for the best taste and texture.
CONTROL THE HEAT - Ensure not to overcook the chicken, keeping it juicy and tender.
DON'T RUSH - Allow the sauce to simmer properly, letting the flavors meld together.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR VEGGIES - Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite veggies for added nutrition and flavor.
GARNISH - I like to garnish the Hawaiian Chicken with a few sesame seeds and some chopped green onions. The later
Serving Suggestions
RICE - White, coconut rice, or brown rice complements the dish nicely. For a delicious twist, try our Mint Rice.
CAULIFLOWER RICE - This is a great side dish if you're looking for a low-carb option.
BROCCOLI - Steamed or roasted broccoli pairs well with the dish.
Leftovers
STORE - Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FREEZE - You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
REHEAT - Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
More Delicious Chicken Recipes
CHICKEN PARMESAN - A comforting classic made easy!
EASY CHICKEN AND RICE CASSEROLE - One pot, tons of flavor.
CHICKEN POT PIE CASSEROLE - Hearty, creamy, and rich.
CHIPOTLE CHICKEN WRAP - Spicy, smoky, and wrapped in goodness.
PAPRIKA CHICKEN - Smoky and aromatic chicken dish for a delightful dinner.
CHICKEN CACCIATORE - Rustic and hearty, perfect for a family meal.
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Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts skinless, cubed
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks juice reserved
- 3 large bell peppers any colors, cut into chunks
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon ginger fresh, minced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Heat the canola oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until it's browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Then, set it aside.
- Sauté the chunks of bell peppers in the same pan until they begin to soften.
- While the peppers are cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, red pepper flakes, minced ginger, and minced garlic in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture into the pan with the bell peppers.
- Add the drained pineapple chunks to the pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with the reserved pineapple juice until smooth. Add this mixture to the pan.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve the Hawaiian chicken over cooked rice.