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This Hawaiian pizza chicken meal prep brings all the best flavors of a classic pizza into a high protein, gluten free bowl. It balances savory chicken, tangy pizza sauce, sweet pineapple, and melty cheese over a bed of steamed broccoli for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or prepping lunches in advance, this recipe delivers a colorful and hearty dish with minimal fuss.
I first made this for a casual family dinner, and now it’s a favorite in our weekly rotation. The sweet pineapple topping always gets compliments, and the cheese bubbling on top makes it feel like a treat without extra calories.
Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts: skinless and boneless for tender lean protein that cooks evenly
- Garlic powder: adds fragrant warmth and depth essential for savory notes in the dish
- Paprika: brings a subtle smoky sweetness—choose a good quality one for best flavor
- Italian seasoning: merges herbs like oregano and basil to evoke classic pizza flavors
- Salt and black pepper: to taste help enhance and balance all the other ingredients
- 1 cup pizza sauce: ensures that rich tomato tanginess is front and center
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly and adds creamy texture
- ½ cup chopped ham: for the traditional Hawaiian pizza meaty sweetness
- ½ cup diced pineapple: brings juicy brightness and a tropical twist
- 4 cups steamed broccoli: cut into halves boost fiber and add a fresh, healthy crunch
- Optional toppings: diced pineapple and grated Parmesan to finish with extra flavor and texture
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics and Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly oil a 9 by 13inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Cut the boneless chicken breasts into oneinch cubes so they cook evenly and stay moist.
- Season the Chicken Well:
- Place the cubed chicken in the casserole dish and sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything gently to coat each piece with spices for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Put the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. This step begins cooking the chicken thoroughly while locking in juices.
- Add the Pizza Toppings:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Evenly spread the pizza sauce over the chicken cubes, followed by shredded mozzarella, chopped ham, and half a cup of diced pineapple for that signature Hawaiian touch.
- Finish Baking to Melt and Bubble:
- Return the dish to the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. This allows the cheese to properly melt and start browning slightly, creating a delicious golden crust on top.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the chicken mixture into four meal prep bowls. Add steamed broccoli halves to each bowl for color and nutrition. Finally, top with extra diced pineapple and grated Parmesan to add brightness and an extra layer of cheesy flavor.
Mozzarella cheese is one of my favorite ingredients here because it melts beautifully and creates that irresistibly gooey texture you want on pizza. I remember packing these for a family picnic, and everyone loved having a portable dish that tasted like pizza but was lighter and easier to eat outside. The pineapple topping always sparks fun conversations about the sweet and savory combo.
Storage Tips
Store leftover bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep cheese melted and broccoli crisp. For longer storage, freeze individual portions and thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken breasts for turkey breast or firm tofu if you want a different protein. Feel free to use a homemade or storebought pizza sauce with your preferred flavor profile. If ham is not your favorite, cooked bacon or Canadian bacon works as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad for extra greens or add some cooked quinoa or rice underneath the broccoli for a more filling meal. Drizzle with a little hot sauce if you like a spicy kick or sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for an herbal note.
These Hawaiian pizza bowls are perfect for meal prep and reheat well for quick lunches. They balance cheesy comfort with bright pineapple and veggies.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What cuts of chicken work best?
Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tenderness in this dish.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese and use turkey ham or omit altogether.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cut the chicken into uniform cubes and bake covered initially, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed broccoli is included, but you can also add a fresh salad or roasted veggies for variety.