Craving a dish that bursts with flavor and is simple to make? Meet my Sheet-Pan Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple Delight! This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, bright veggies, and sweet pineapple, all baked together for an easy weeknight meal. With just one pan, you’ll enjoy bold tastes without the mess. Follow along as I guide you step-by-step to create this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for Sheet-Pan Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium is a great choice)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/3 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (this is your slurry)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Cooked white rice for serving
Gather these ingredients to make a delicious meal. Each component adds flavor and texture. The chicken gives protein, while the pineapple adds sweetness. The bell pepper and onion add crunch and color. With the right mix, you create a delightful dish that is hard to resist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
– Start your oven at 400°F (200°C).
– Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup.
Make the Marinade
– In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
– Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth. This marinade packs flavor.
Marinate the Chicken
– Take your chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
– Coat the chicken pieces in half of the marinade.
– Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step makes the chicken juicy.
Mix the Vegetables
– In another bowl, combine pineapple chunks, chopped bell pepper, and red onion.
– Pour the remaining marinade over the vegetables. Toss everything gently until coated.
Assemble on Sheet Pan
– Distribute the marinated chicken on one side of the baking sheet.
– On the other side, carefully arrange the marinated vegetables and pineapple. This keeps them separate while cooking.
Bake and Finalize Sauce
– Put the sheet pan in the preheated oven.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
– When there are 5 minutes left, drizzle the cornstarch slurry over everything. This thickens the sauce.
Serve
– After baking, take the sheet pan out of the oven.
– Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
– Plate the sweet and sour chicken over cooked white rice.
– Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a nice touch. Enjoy the tropical flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Marinating Tips
– Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up flavors.
– Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This ensures all the chicken tastes great.
Cooking Techniques
– Stir the vegetables halfway through cooking. This helps them cook evenly and brown nicely.
– Keep an eye on the chicken cooking times. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Presentation Tips
– Serve the dish in deep bowls for a nice look. Arrange the chicken and veggies over the rice.
– Add sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top. This adds color and a pop of flavor.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can switch the chicken for tofu or shrimp.
– Tofu: Use firm tofu. Cut it into cubes. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. This gives it a nice crisp.
– Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp. They cook faster. Bake for just 10-15 minutes. Watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
These options keep the dish tasty.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add different veggies. Zucchini and broccoli work great.
– Zucchini: Slice it into rounds. It cooks quickly and adds a nice texture.
– Broccoli: Cut it into small florets. It adds a crunchy bite.
Changing the veggies can alter the flavor too. For a sweeter taste, use carrots. For a spicy kick, jalapeños are a great choice.
Sauce Adjustments
You can easily tweak the sauce for more flavor.
– Sweetness: If you love it sweeter, add more honey. For less sweetness, cut back on honey.
– Spice: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
– Vinegars: Try rice vinegar for a milder taste. You can also use balsamic for a richer flavor.
These adjustments let you make the dish your own.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
You can store leftover sheet-pan sweet and sour chicken in the fridge for up to four days. For best results, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken juicy and the veggies fresh. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze this dish! It’s a great way to save extra servings. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months.
To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. This helps keep the texture nice.
Reheating Tips
For reheating, the oven works best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and veggies on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep the chicken tender.
You can also use the microwave. Just cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast. Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and juiciness. They stay tender during cooking. Breast meat is leaner and can dry out. If you use breasts, watch the cooking time closely. Aim for 20 minutes to keep them moist.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. Marinate the chicken the night before for better flavor. Chop the veggies and store them separately. You can also cook the dish a day ahead. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave. This saves time on busy nights.
What type of rice is best to serve with this dish?
I recommend white rice for a classic pairing. Jasmine rice adds a nice aroma. Brown rice is a healthy option with more fiber. If you want something different, try coconut rice. It complements the tropical flavors well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to soy sauce. You can use tamari or coconut aminos as substitutes. Both are gluten-free and will still add great flavor. Check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your needs. Enjoy a delicious meal without the gluten!
In this post, we covered a delicious recipe featuring chicken, pineapple, and colorful veggies. You learned how to marinate the chicken and bake everything to perfection. Don’t forget to try out variations and storage tips to make meals easier. Cooking can be fun and creative, so feel free to explore flavors that excite you. Enjoy your tasty dish with rice and garnishes for a wonderful finish!
