One-Dish Hawaiian Chicken Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The One-Dish Hawaiian Chicken Bake is a perfect blend of juicy, flavorful chicken, tangy pineapple, and savory teriyaki sauce, all baked together to create a delicious, easy meal. The best part? It’s all made in one dish, which means minimal cleanup. The chicken comes out tender, infused with the sweet and savory flavors, while the pineapple caramelizes slightly, adding natural sweetness to the dish. Whether you’re in a rush or want to enjoy a flavorful meal with little effort, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (drained, reserve juice)

• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Cooked rice (for serving, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

2. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides with garlic powder, ginger (if using), and black pepper.

3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, and the reserved pineapple juice. Mix well to combine.

4. Add the pineapple: Scatter the drained pineapple chunks around the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and pineapple, ensuring everything is coated well.

5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For the last 10 minutes, remove the foil to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and the pineapple to caramelize.

6. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and crunch. Serve with rice or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. Ensure the tofu is pressed to remove excess moisture for the best texture.

• Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or snap peas around the chicken and pineapple to make it even more of a one-dish meal.

• Rice-Free Option: Serve this dish with a side of steamed veggies or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works wonderfully! Just chop it into chunks and use the same amount as the canned pineapple. You may need to add a little extra pineapple juice or water to the sauce to make sure there’s enough liquid to cook the chicken.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply assemble the chicken, pineapple, and sauce in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake as directed.

3. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of boneless, skinless breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Bone-in chicken may take an extra 10-15 minutes to cook.

4. Can I use a different sauce besides teriyaki?

If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, you can substitute with a sweet soy sauce or make your own by combining soy sauce, honey, and a splash of vinegar. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) when it’s fully cooked. The chicken will also be white and no longer pink in the center.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño, a splash of hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will give the dish a nice spicy kick that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.

7. Can I serve this dish with a different side than rice?

Absolutely! You can serve this with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or even quinoa for a healthier, whole-grain side. You can also serve it with a simple salad for a lighter option.

8. Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Yes, this dish works well with pork tenderloin or fish fillets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

9. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can cook this in a slow cooker. Place the chicken, pineapple, and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Add the rice or side dish separately when serving.

10. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Make sure to use vegetable broth if needed for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This One-Dish Hawaiian Chicken Bake is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and savory combination of chicken, pineapple, and teriyaki sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a tropical-inspired dish, or a one-pan dinner that’s simple to clean up, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bright, bold flavors of Hawaii in every bite!