Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

Name: Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast or thighs (cut into pieces); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 bell peppers (cut into chunks); 1 red onion (roughly chopped); 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 2 garlic cloves (grated); Rice for serving

Published: July 17, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of BBQ sauce, pineapple, and fresh veggies creates a delightful taste.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a customizable meal.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients while being low in fat.
Family-Friendly: A dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before you start your sheet pan dinner.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sheet pan
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Grater

Importance of Each Tool

Sheet pan: Perfect for roasting everything at once, ensuring even cooking.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients easily without mess.
Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping chicken and vegetables quick and safe.

Ingredients

A sweet and saucy chicken and pineapple dish made with pantry ingredients and on the table in 30 minutes.

For the Chicken

1 1/2 pounds chicken breast or thighs (cut into pieces)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

2 bell peppers (cut into chunks)
1 red onion (roughly chopped)

For the Sauce

1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
2 garlic cloves grated

For Serving

Rice for serving

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 Fahrenheit. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2: Chop Your Ingredients

Chop all of the ingredients first. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, along with the pineapple, peppers, and onion. If you prefer smaller onion pieces, feel free to dice them.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to a large bowl. Generously season with salt and pepper. This adds flavor right from the start.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add in the remaining ingredients—pineapple, bell peppers, red onion, BBQ sauce, and grated garlic—into the bowl with the chicken. Give it a good stir until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Prepare the Sheet Pan

Line your sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly on the sheet pan in a single layer.

Step 6: Bake Until Cooked Through

Place your sheet pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

We love to serve this over rice for a complete meal. However, it’s also great over pasta or mashed potatoes if you prefer something different.

Step 8: Store Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Enjoy reheating this tasty dish throughout the week!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a quick meal or something a bit more elaborate, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

Serve the chicken and veggies over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant base that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Pasta

Pair it with cooked spaghetti or penne tossed in olive oil for a tasty twist, allowing the BBQ sauce to act as a flavorful coating.

In Tacos

Use soft tortillas to create fun tacos. Simply fill them with the chicken and pineapple mixture and add your favorite toppings like cilantro or avocado.

On a Salad

Top a bed of mixed greens with the chicken and pineapple for a fresh and healthy salad option. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce or your favorite dressing.

As Meal Prep

Divide leftovers into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This dish stays flavorful even after reheating!

With Avocado Slices

Add creamy avocado slices on top for an extra layer of texture and flavor, making your meal even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

Making Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken is simple, but these tips can help you elevate this dish to perfection.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pineapples and bell peppers bring out vibrant flavors compared to canned alternatives.
Marinate the chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Adjust cooking time: If using larger pieces of chicken, ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Add spices: Experiment with additional spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to give your dish an added kick.
Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Garnish wisely: A sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds can add visual appeal and enhance flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

To complement your Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken, consider these delightful side dishes. They will round out your meal beautifully.

Garlic Bread – A crispy garlic bread makes for an excellent side to soak up any leftover sauce from the chicken.
Coleslaw – A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken and pineapple.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus provide color and nutrients alongside your main dish.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber while keeping the meal healthy and filling.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn on the cob brings sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ flavors of the dish.
Coconut Rice – Coconut rice offers a tropical flair that complements the pineapple beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overpowering the main flavors of your meal.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base that works well with the sweet sauce of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them:

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to generously season the chicken with salt and pepper before mixing in other ingredients.
Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many ingredients on the sheet pan can cause uneven cooking. Ensure that you spread everything out in a single layer for even roasting.
Not preheating the oven: Starting with an unheated oven can extend cooking time and affect texture. Always preheat your oven to 400°F before placing the pan inside.
Using low-quality BBQ sauce: The sauce is a key flavor component, so using cheap or overly sweet varieties can alter the dish’s taste. Select a good quality BBQ sauce that complements the pineapple.
Ignoring cook times: Not monitoring the chicken’s doneness can lead to undercooked or overcooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F for safety.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
They will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Allow the dish to cool before sealing it tightly.

Freezing Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the chicken in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer a portion of chicken to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, heating at medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Frozen chicken may need additional cooking time.

What should I serve with Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, making it versatile for various meal options.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can add your favorite vegetables or switch out the BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor from savory BBQ sauce and sweet pineapple. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences—try different veggies or sauces! Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please the whole family.

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