Name: Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts; to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 cup cornstarch; 3 large eggs (beaten); 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup pineapple juice (for sauce); 1/2 cup brown sugar (for sauce); 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (for sauce); 1 clove garlic (minced, for sauce); 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch (for sauce); 1 red bell pepper chopped (seeds removed); 1 can pineapple tidbits (20 ounces, drained)

Introduction to Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

The Craving for Homemade Goodness

There’s something truly special about a home-cooked meal that warms not only the stomach but also the heart. Imagine sitting down to a plate of Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken—golden pieces of chicken enveloped in a sweet, tangy sauce, paired perfectly with juicy pineapples and vibrant bell peppers. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve made it to a tropical paradise, even if you’re just at home in your kitchen.

This delightful recipe is not only easy to whip up but is also customizable to fit various dietary preferences. You can effortlessly adapt the ingredients to your liking while still maintaining that mouthwatering flavor profile. Cooking with fresh, wholesome ingredients fosters a sense of connection to the meals we enjoy, often bringing back fond memories of family gatherings or warm summer nights.

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish to serve at your next gathering or even for a cozy weeknight dinner, this Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken will not disappoint. Featuring pantry staples, each bite is a delightful reminder of the comfort that homemade meals can evoke. Get ready to surprise your taste buds and create something memorable!

Ingredients for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

When you’re ready to whip up this delightful Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, you'll want to gather a few key ingredients that promise a burst of flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

Chicken and Coating

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for fresh, high-quality chicken to ensure tender meat.
Salt and pepper to taste: A pinch will elevate the flavors.
1 cup cornstarch: This is your secret weapon for a crispy coating.
3 large eggs, beaten: They’ll help the cornstarch adhere perfectly.
¼ cup vegetable oil: Used for that golden sear.

Sauce Ingredients

1 cup pineapple juice: Adds sweetness and tanginess; fresh or canned works well!
½ cup brown sugar: This will caramelize beautifully in the oven.
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Enhances the savory depth of the dish.
1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings aromatic flavor.
½ tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens your sauce effortlessly.
1 red bell pepper, chopped: For color and crunch—feel free to mix in other colors too!
1 can (20 ounces) pineapple tidbits, drained: The pineapple pairs perfectly with the chicken.

With these ingredients on hand, you're set for a kitchen adventure! Want to learn more about the benefits of each ingredient? Check out resources from Healthline for a deeper dive. Happy cooking!

Preparing Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Cooking a delicious meal can sometimes feel daunting, but with this Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken recipe, you’ll find it’s a breeze! Let’s walk through the steps together to ensure success from start to finish.

Gather your ingredients

First things first—make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. You'll need:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper
1 cup cornstarch
3 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup vegetable oil

For the sweet and tangy sauce, grab:

1 cup pineapple juice
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tablespoon cornstarch
1 red bell pepper, chopped (seeds removed)
1 can (20 ounces) pineapple tidbits, drained

Double-check your pantry, and if you’re missing anything, a quick trip to the store should do the trick. Fresh ingredients really make a difference!

Prepare your chicken

Now it’s time to prep the chicken. Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season these pieces with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This helps to elevate the flavor right from the start!

Next, in a large bowl, place the cornstarch, and in another bowl, have the beaten eggs ready. Dipping the chicken in cornstarch first helps the egg adhere better, leading to a perfect golden coating.

Create the golden coating

Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the cornstarch, coating it thoroughly. Then, move it to the bowl of beaten eggs. This process gives the chicken that crispy, golden finish when baked. If you're looking for a bit of extra crunch, feel free to double-dip!

Sauté the chicken

In a large, non-stick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches so they cook evenly. You’re not cooking them all the way through here; just aim for a lovely golden-brown color on all sides. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned chicken pieces to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Mix the sweet sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cornstarch until smooth. The sauce adds that essential sweet Hawaiian flavor, balancing beautifully with the savory chicken.

Combine and bake

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Top with the chopped bell pepper and pineapple tidbits for added color and flavor. The dish is now ready for the oven!

Bake uncovered at 325°F for about 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure an even coating of sauce. Once the chicken is tender and coated in the sweet sauce, allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving.

Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding a pinch of cayenne or by serving it with jasmine rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Now, go ahead and enjoy your homemade Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken!

Variations on Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Spicy Hawaiian Chicken

If you crave a bit of heat, try transforming your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken into a spicy delight! Simply add sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Marinating the chicken in a blend of pineapple juice and sriracha before baking can elevate those flavors even further, providing a delicious contrast to the sweetness.

Vegetarian Hawaiian-style Dish

Looking for a meat-free option? Swap out chicken for cubed tofu or tempeh, and you’ll create a colorful Vegetarian Hawaiian-style dish. Ensure to pan-fry the tofu until golden for that perfect texture. Pair it with a medley of bell peppers, pineapple, and a touch of coconut milk for richness. This alternative delivers the vibrant flavors of the original while catering to your plant-based friends. Want more ideas for vegetarian adaptations? Check out this resource for inspiration.

Cooking Notes for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

When making Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken, a few tips can elevate your dish from great to fantastic.

Chicken Preparation: Ensure your chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking. Don't skip the seasoning; a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the flavors.
Sauce Balance: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce based on your taste. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance the tang if desired.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out bell peppers for other colorful veggies like snap peas or carrots. This is a personal favorite way to keep things fresh.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your dish with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. A side of black beans works great too!

Experiment to make this Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken truly your own. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Pairing your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken with complementary sides can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Rice and Grains

Steamed White or Brown Rice: The subtle flavors of the rice absorb the sweet sauce beautifully.
Quinoa: This protein-packed grain adds a nutty flavor, making it an excellent healthful option.

Fresh Salads

Crisp Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw with a hint of sweetness can balance the dish’s flavors perfectly.

Vegetables

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for a colorful plate and added nutrients.
Grilled Pineapple: For a fun twist, grill some pineapple slices to enhance the tropical vibe.

These serving suggestions will not only complement the Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken but also impress your guests or family with a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!

Tips for making perfect Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Cooking Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken at home can be a delightful experience. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless skinless chicken breasts. This makes a significant difference in flavor and texture.
Don't Skimp on Browning: Be patient while browning the chicken in the skillet. Aim for that golden crust; it adds depth to your dish.
Sauce Balance: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your liking. A touch more soy sauce can enhance the umami flavors!
Even Cooking: Stir the chicken every 15 minutes while baking. This ensures every piece gets coated evenly with the sauce.
Garnish Smartly: Top with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

For more cooking tips, check out resources like The Kitchn for inspiration. With these pointers in mind, your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken will be a hit at dinner!

Time Details for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Preparation Time

Get ready in just 25 minutes! This is the time it will take to gather ingredients, prep the chicken, and whisk together that delicious sauce.

Cooking Time

Pop your dish into the oven and relax—1 hour is all it takes for the magic to happen, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Total Time

In just 1 hour and 25 minutes, you’ll have a tasty, satisfying meal of Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken ready to be enjoyed. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends!

For tips on choosing the perfect chicken, feel free to explore this guide from the USDA on safe food handling practices. If you're interested in combining flavors, check out this article on sweet and savory pairings to elevate your dish even further!

Nutritional Information for Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Calories

Each serving of Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken contains approximately 280 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for dinner without overwhelming your daily caloric intake.

Protein

Packed with about 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a great way to fuel your body after a workout or keep you feeling full throughout the evening.

Sodium

While the flavor comes from low-sodium soy sauce, you'll still find around 600 milligrams of sodium per serving. It’s a decent level, so if you're watching sodium intake, consider pairing it with low-sodium sides or vegetables.

For a deeper dive into the benefits of including chicken in your diet, check out the American Heart Association’s guidelines for balanced meals. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated!

FAQs about Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs in your Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken will add a richer flavor and moisture to the dish. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Place any uneaten Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you're planning to keep it longer, consider freezing; it can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dish the night before by coating the chicken and mixing the sauce. Just store everything separately in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, combine and bake it as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings!

For more helpful tips on storing and prepping meals, check out resources from the USDA for best practices.

Conclusion on Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken

In summary, Baked Sweet Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a beautifully sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you won't regret it!