Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken

This tender, juicy Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast transforms ordinary chicken into a sweet and savory dinner sensation with minimal effort. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and sweet pineapple creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.

I discovered this recipe when trying to recreate the tropical flavors from our Hawaiian vacation. My family now requests this "vacation dinner" at least twice a month, and guests always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Their lean profile makes them the perfect canvas for our flavorful sauce. Look for pieces of similar size for even cooking.
• Barbecue sauce: The foundation of our glaze. Choose a high-quality sauce with a balance of sweet and tangy notes. I prefer ones without high fructose corn syrup.
• Pineapple chunks: They caramelize beautifully while adding natural sweetness. Fresh pineapple offers the best flavor but canned works wonderfully in a pinch.
• Garlic: Adds depth and complexity. Always opt for fresh cloves rather than pre-minced for the most vibrant flavor.
• Olive oil: Creates a beautiful gloss and helps with caramelization. Use a good quality extra virgin for best results.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky undertone that complements the barbecue sauce. Spanish paprika offers the richest flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances all the other flavors. I recommend kosher salt for its clean taste.
• Fresh herbs: Optional but recommended for a pop of color and freshness. Choose based on your preference between bright parsley or citrusy cilantro.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F while you prepare the remaining ingredients. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully around the chicken.

Create The Flavor Base:

Combine barbecue sauce, minced garlic and paprika in a bowl, stirring thoroughly to ensure the garlic and spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. This creates a complex flavor profile that will infuse into the chicken.

Prepare The Chicken:

Place your chicken breasts in a baking dish ensuring they have a little space between each piece. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. The seasoning at this stage provides a flavor foundation before adding the sauce.

Apply The Sauce:

Pour the barbecue sauce mixture evenly over each chicken breast, using a spoon to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated. The sauce will form a glaze during baking so complete coverage is important for maximum flavor.

Add Pineapple:

Distribute pineapple chunks around and on top of the chicken. Position some directly on the chicken and scatter the rest throughout the dish. The pineapple will release juices during baking that infuse the chicken with tropical sweetness.

Finish And Bake:

Drizzle olive oil over the entire dish to promote browning and prevent drying. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce has thickened into a glossy glaze.

Rest And Garnish:

Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Sprinkle with chopped herbs just before serving for a fresh flavor contrast and visual appeal.

Pin it

Pineapple is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power when my daughter accidentally spilled canned pineapple juice into our barbecue sauce one evening. What seemed like a cooking disaster turned into our family's favorite dish, proving that sometimes kitchen accidents lead to the most delicious discoveries.

Make Ahead Options

This dish is perfect for busy weeknight planning. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. Simply add an additional 5 minutes to the baking time when cooking from refrigerated. The flavors actually intensify as they marinate together, creating an even more delicious result.

Brilliant Sides

The tropical flavor profile of this chicken pairs beautifully with coconut rice, which soaks up the extra sauce perfectly. For a complete meal, add a simple side salad with avocado and a lime vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. The sweet and savory chicken also contrasts wonderfully with something spicy like jalapeño cornbread.

Smart Substitutions

If pineapple isn't your preference, mango chunks work beautifully as an alternative with a similar sweet tropical profile. For those watching sugar intake, use a sugar-free barbecue sauce and fresh pineapple rather than canned in syrup. Chicken thighs can replace breasts for a more succulent result with slightly longer cooking time. And for a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple. Make sure to drain it thoroughly before use to prevent excess liquid in the dish.

→ What can I substitute for barbecue sauce?

You can use a mix of ketchup, honey, and a splash of vinegar as an alternative to barbecue sauce.

→ How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for properly cooked chicken.

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken with the barbecue sauce and garlic mixture, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What other sides pair well with this dish?

This dish pairs nicely with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.

→ Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Yes, you can grill the chicken. Grill over medium heat, basting with the sauce and adding pineapple chunks for the last few minutes.