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Snow-day magic: just toss in chicken and cream cheese, then let the sweet-and-salty goodness do all the work while you stay cozy on the couch… Full recipe in 💬

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For this classic baked chicken with pineapple, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken:

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on for extra flavor (about 1–1.5 pounds)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and subtle flavor)

Pineapple:

  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks

  • Or 1 can of pineapple slices in juice (not syrup), drained

Marinade/Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice for acidity

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped green onions

  • Sesame seeds

  • Fresh cilantro

Serving Suggestions:

  • Steamed white or brown rice

  • Quinoa or couscous

  • Roasted vegetables

Equipment Needed

  • Baking dish or sheet pan (with sides)

  • Mixing bowl for marinade

  • Knife and cutting board

  • Measuring spoons and cups

  • Aluminum foil (optional, for easy cleanup)

  • Oven thermometer (optional, for precise cooking)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Baked Chicken with Pineapple

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and ensures the marinade adheres properly. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.

Tip: Skin-on chicken produces a richer flavor, but you can remove the skin for a leaner option.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple

  • Fresh Pineapple: Peel, core, and slice into rings or chunks. Reserve the juice for the marinade.

  • Canned Pineapple: Drain slices or chunks, reserving the juice for flavoring the sauce.

Cutting pineapple into bite-sized chunks allows the flavor to infuse the chicken evenly.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine:

  • Soy sauce

  • Honey or maple syrup

  • Olive oil

  • Garlic

  • Ginger

  • Chili flakes (optional)

  • Vinegar or lime juice

  • Pineapple juice (if available)

Whisk thoroughly until smooth. This sweet, savory, and tangy mixture will serve as both a marinade and a basting sauce.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. Overnight marination is ideal for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Tip: Pineapple’s bromelain tenderizes the meat, but marinating longer than 12 hours may make the chicken mushy.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps develop a slightly caramelized surface on the chicken and pineapple.

Step 6: Arrange Chicken and Pineapple in Baking Dish

  • Place the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the baking dish.

  • Arrange pineapple slices or chunks around and on top of the chicken.

  • Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken and pineapple.

Tip: For an attractive presentation, alternate chicken pieces and pineapple slices.

Step 7: Bake the Chicken

  • Bake uncovered for 25–35 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

  • For extra flavor, baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through cooking.

  • Optional: In the last 5 minutes, broil on high to caramelize the pineapple and chicken slightly.

Internal Temperature Check: Chicken is safe when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

  • Sprinkle chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro over the top.

  • Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious juices.

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken with Pineapple

  1. Use Bone-In Pieces: Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts stay juicier than boneless.

  2. Balance Sweetness: Honey and pineapple bring sweetness—adjust to taste. Add a splash of lime or vinegar if too sweet.

  3. Avoid Overcrowding: Space chicken and pineapple pieces to allow even roasting.

  4. Caramelization: Broiling at the end adds a slightly charred, caramelized flavor.

  5. Marination Time: 30 minutes is the minimum; 2–4 hours is ideal for flavor infusion.

Variations of Baked Chicken with Pineapple

1. Spicy Hawaiian Chicken

Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the marinade for a sweet and spicy kick.

2. Ginger-Soy Glazed Chicken

Increase ginger and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor profile, pairing well with steamed jasmine rice.

3. Coconut Pineapple Chicken

Add 1/4 cup coconut milk to the marinade for a tropical, creamy twist.

4. Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Replace soy sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce and bake with pineapple for a smoky, tangy flavor.

5. Herb-Infused Chicken with Pineapple

Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or cilantro to the marinade for aromatic, earthy notes.

Nutritional Benefits

Baked chicken with pineapple is not just delicious but also nutrient-rich:

  • Chicken: High-quality protein, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus.

  • Pineapple: Rich in vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants, and bromelain for digestive support.

  • Ginger & Garlic: Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

  • Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that improve absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Health Tip: Using lean chicken cuts and moderate amounts of honey makes this a balanced meal suitable for weight management.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  1. Overcooking Chicken: Use a thermometer to avoid dryness.

  2. Too Much Pineapple: Pineapple is acidic; excessive amounts can make the chicken mushy.

  3. Skipping Basting: Helps prevent drying out and enhances caramelization.

  4. Too Little Seasoning: Chicken can taste bland if not adequately seasoned before marination.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve over steamed white rice to absorb the sweet and savory juices.

  • Pair with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.

  • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

  • Add a simple side salad with lime dressing to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.

  • Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave until warmed.

  • Avoid overcooking during reheating to prevent dryness.

Fun Facts About Pineapple and Chicken

  • Pineapple is native to South America and was introduced to Europe by explorers in the 15th century.

  • Bromelain, found in pineapple, has been used in traditional medicine for digestive and anti-inflammatory purposes.

  • Pairing fruit with meat is a common practice worldwide, from Hawaiian dishes to Asian cuisine, for flavor balance and tenderizing effects.

Conclusion

Baked chicken with pineapple is a versatile, flavorful, and visually appealing dish perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. By following this detailed recipe, you can ensure tender chicken, perfectly caramelized pineapple, and a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

From marinating tips to cooking techniques, flavor variations, nutritional insights, and serving suggestions, this guide provides everything you need to master baked chicken with pineapple. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with herbs, spices, or tropical twists, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and impress anyone at your table.

 

Embrace the combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and aromatic seasonings—this recipe proves that simplicity, paired with careful technique, can produce a truly unforgettable meal.

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