Juicy oven-baked chicken coated in a sweet and savory pineapple glaze
Description
Baked Chicken with Pineapple is a bright, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and caramelized pineapple in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce. As the chicken bakes, the pineapple glaze thickens and clings to every bite, creating a balance of sweet, savory, and lightly tangy flavors. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
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Families looking for an easy, flavorful chicken dinner
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Busy cooks who want oven-baked meals with little cleanup
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Meal preppers needing reheat-friendly protein
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Anyone who loves sweet and savory flavor combinations
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Home cooks who want a dish that feels special but stays simple
Why It’s Great
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Juicy, tender chicken baked—not fried
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Sweet pineapple perfectly balanced with savory soy sauce
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Simple ingredients with big flavor
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Easy to customize for weeknights or entertaining
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Pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables
Ingredients
Chicken
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (700–800 g)
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
Pineapple Sauce
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1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
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½ cup pineapple juice
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¼ cup soy sauce
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¼ cup brown sugar or honey
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
Thickening (Optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 tablespoon water
Optional Garnish
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Sliced green onions
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Sesame seeds
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Baking dish
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Aluminum foil
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Small saucepan (optional, for thickening sauce)
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Meat thermometer
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. -
Season the Chicken
Arrange the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. -
Make the Pineapple Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), ketchup, vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger if using. -
Assemble the Dish
Scatter the pineapple chunks over the chicken. Pour the sauce evenly on top, coating the chicken well. -
Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). -
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
For a thicker glaze, pour the sauce into a small saucepan. Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and simmer for 1–2 minutes until glossy and thickened. Spoon the sauce back over the chicken. -
Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.
Storage
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
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Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with extra sauce
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Suitable for meal prep; flavors improve the next day
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work very well and stay extra juicy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Is fresh or canned pineapple better?
Both work well. Canned pineapple is convenient, while fresh pineapple gives slightly brighter flavor.
Can I make this dish less sweet?
Reduce the sugar or honey slightly and add a splash of vinegar for balance.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken with Pineapple is a simple yet impressive dish that brings warmth and brightness to the dinner table. With juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a sticky, flavorful glaze, it’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary nights into something special. Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, this dish is sure to earn a permanent place in your weekly rotation.
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