Name: Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken: Taste the Tropics at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1/2 cup Cornstarch (or flour if needed); 2 large Eggs (beaten); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or olive oil for a different taste); 1 cup Pineapple Juice (fresh juice is ideal); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (or honey/agave for a twist); 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (or regular soy sauce if preferred); 1 clove Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (additional to thicken sauce); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (chopped); 1 cup Pineapple Tidbits (canned and drained)

As I set foot in my kitchen, the sweet scent of pineapple fills the air, instantly whisking me away to a sun-soaked Hawaiian getaway. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken—a dish that marries the tangy brightness of pineapple with tender, juicy chicken. This family-friendly meal is not only quick to prepare but also a guaranteed hit at the dinner table, making it ideal for cozy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones. The harmony of flavors in this savory-sweet dish evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, reminding us all of the joys of home-cooked meals. Ready to embark on this tropical adventure with me?

Why is Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken a must-try?

Tropical Vibes: Experience a burst of island flavors right at your dinner table. This dish perfectly combines sweet pineapple and savory chicken, creating a symphony that transports you to paradise.

Simplicity at Its Finest: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready without hours in the kitchen.

Kid-Friendly Delight: This recipe is a family favorite, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will love it—just like my Hawaiian Chicken Bowl or Baked Bbq Chicken.

Versatile Inspiration: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap in shrimp for a different twist.

Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a festive occasion, this dish shines as a crowd-pleaser, leaving everyone wanting seconds!

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source, ensuring tenderness in each bite.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Cornstarch – Provides a crispy coating when you’re frying the chicken; can be swapped with flour if needed.
Eggs – Acts as a binder for the coating; use beaten eggs for the best results.
Vegetable Oil – For frying the chicken to perfection; you can substitute it with olive oil for a different taste.

For the Sauce

Pineapple Juice – The sweet and tangy base that makes this dish shine; fresh juice is ideal for maximum flavor.
Brown Sugar – Adds delightful sweetness to the sauce; can easily be replaced with honey or agave for a twist.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Delivers umami depth; regular soy sauce can be used if you prefer a bolder taste.
Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
Cornstarch (additional) – Thickens the sauce, so mix well to prevent lumps.

For the Toppings

Red Bell Pepper – Contributes color and crunch; substitute with any bell pepper of your choice.
Pineapple Tidbits (canned and drained) – Sweet bursts that complement the chicken perfectly; fresh pineapple chunks can contribute a lighter taste.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken that brings a slice of the tropics to your dining table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This is crucial for ensuring that your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken doesn’t stick to the pan, allowing for easy serving later on. The warm oven will prepare the perfect environment for baking your flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the oven heats up, cut boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavor profile of the chicken, ensuring every piece is delicious. Place the seasoned chicken in a bowl, and set it aside as we prepare the coating for frying.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In one bowl, combine cornstarch, and in a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Take the seasoned chicken pieces and first coat them in cornstarch, allowing any excess to fall back into the bowl. Next, dip the cornflour-coated chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring each piece is fully covered for a crispy outer layer when fried.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once sizzling, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked. This step will provide a nice crispness to the chicken while keeping it juicy inside, preparing it for the baking process.

Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish
Once the chicken is golden brown, arrange the partially cooked pieces evenly in the greased baking dish. Make sure to spread them out so that the heat circulates well while baking, allowing each piece of your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and an additional tablespoon of cornstarch. This mixture will create a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce that elevates your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken. Pour the sauce evenly over the arranged chicken, ensuring an even coating to infuse flavor throughout.

Step 7: Add the Toppings
Next, sprinkle chopped red bell pepper and pineapple tidbits over the chicken and sauce. The vibrant bell peppers not only add color but also enhance texture and flavor with their crunch. The pineapple tidbits will provide bursts of sweetness, complementing the dish perfectly as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 1 hour. Every 15 minutes, stir the dish gently to ensure that the sauce evenly coats the chicken. Baking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating the ideal juicy and flavorful Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

Step 9: Let It Rest
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute through the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. Your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is now ready to be served and enjoyed with family and friends!

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Variations

Get ready to make this delightful dish even more exciting with these custom variations!

Dairy-Free: Swap out any butter-based elements for olive oil or coconut oil to keep it light and creamy.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few drops of sriracha into the sauce to spice things up. This will create an electrifying flavor contrast.
Crunchy Add-on: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before baking for a delightful crunch and more tropical vibes. It boosts both texture and taste.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in veggies like snap peas or carrots for a nourishing twist. They add wonderful color and a fresh crunch that complements the sweet and savory elements beautifully.
Teriyaki Twist: Use teriyaki sauce instead of the homemade sauce for a quick, yet flavorful alternative. It creates a unique taste while still delivering that delicious Hawaiian vibe.
Protein Swap: Try shrimp or tofu as a substitute for chicken to cater to different diets. Each option imparts its own delightful character to the dish.
Citrus Burst: Add the zest of a lime or lemon along with the pineapple juice for a vibrant citrus flavor. This elevates the dish and adds an enticing brightness.
Sweet Alternative: Use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a deeper, earthy flavor. This will give it a unique sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Feel free to explore these tweaks, and let your culinary creativity shine! And if you’re in the mood for more tropical flavor, don’t miss checking out my Hawaiian Chicken Bowl or for something different, try my Stuffed Chicken Roulade. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Looking to create a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s bursting with tropical flavors?

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serves as a fluffy base, soaking up the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully with each bite.
Mango Salsa: Adds a refreshing zing with its sweet and spicy kick, perfectly complementing the chicken’s flavors.
Grilled Asparagus: Offers a slight char and crunch that balances the dish’s sweetness while providing a healthy green element.
Coconut Fried Rice: Infused with coconut cream and lime, this alternative rice dish amplifies the tropical vibe and pairs delightfully with the chicken.

Consider serving your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken with a light and zesty green salad. Crisp greens tossed with a citrus vinaigrette provide a beautiful contrast to the richness of the chicken, brightening every bite.

Expert Tips for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Keep It Crispy: Avoid sogginess by allowing the fried chicken to cool slightly before adding the sauce. This helps maintain that delicious crunch!

Watch the Heat: Fry the chicken on medium-high heat to achieve a golden brown color without overcooking. This ensures even cooking for the Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

Sauce Consistency: Make sure to whisk the sauce until it’s completely smooth to prevent any lumps from forming during baking.

Even Coating: Stir the chicken every 15 minutes while baking to distribute the sauce evenly, so every piece is infused with flavor.

Timing Matters: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing each delicious bite of Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the chicken pieces and coat them in cornstarch and eggs up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a crispy texture when cooked. Additionally, the sweet and tangy sauce can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just remember to give it a good stir before using. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the prepped chicken in the baking dish, pour the sauce over, add your toppings, and bake as instructed. This approach saves you time and keeps your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken just as delicious and flavorful!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to maintain its texture.

Freezer: You can freeze the Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken for up to 3 months. Portion the chicken in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid, and label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. You may add a splash of water to keep it moist.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and freshness.

Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pineapples for the sauce?
Absolutely! Look for pineapples that are firm, but slightly give when pressed. The eyes on the pineapple should be a bit flat, not sunken. A sweet, fragrant aroma at the base is a sure sign that it’s ripe and ready to use in your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken or any tropical dish!

How should I store leftover Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing it up to maintain its juicy texture. For best results, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken?
Very! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can add a splash of pineapple juice or water to keep it moist during reheating.

What should I do if the sauce gets too thick?
If you find that your sauce thickens too much while baking, simply add a splash of water or additional pineapple juice, stirring it gently. This will help to loosen the sauce and ensure it coats the chicken evenly. Remember to stir every 15 minutes while baking for even distribution!

Is there a way to make Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken allergen-friendly?
Certainly! For gluten-free options, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative and the cornstarch with arrowroot powder. If allergies to eggs are a concern, try using a mixture of flaxseed meal and water as a binding agent. It’s a great way to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add a richer flavor and moisture to the dish. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same cooking steps. They will result in a slightly different texture but are equally delicious in your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken!