Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Zesty Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe for Dinner Magic

Tender chicken breasts dripping with a tangy homemade bbq pineapple sauce promise a mouthwatering meal that’ll make taste buds dance.

This baked pineapple bbq chicken breast recipe brings tropical flavors right to your dinner table.

Sweet and savory notes blend perfectly in each succulent bite.

Juicy chicken absorbs the rich, caramelized pineapple marinade during baking.

The simple ingredients create a restaurant-quality dish anyone can master at home.

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Make Pineapple BBQ Chicken in the Oven

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400°F.

Grab a baking dish and give it a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking and add a touch of flavor.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with a delightful blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Make sure to coat both sides generously for maximum taste.

Step 3: Arrange the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.

Top each piece with vibrant, juicy pineapple slices for a tropical twist.

Step 4: Drench in Tangy Sauce

Generously drizzle BBQ sauce over the chicken and pineapple, ensuring every inch gets a delicious coating of sweet and tangy goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it cook for 25-30 minutes.

Keep an eye out until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Bring the dish to the table piping hot and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that combines sweet, savory, and juicy flavors.

Tips for Juicy, Sweet-Smoky Chicken

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe, juicy results without overcooking.
  • Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar thickness to guarantee even cooking and retain moisture.
  • Choose a smoky or sweet BBQ sauce that complements the pineapple's natural sweetness for a more complex taste profile.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, creating a more tender and succulent meat.
  • Replace regular BBQ sauce with a sugar-free version for a healthier, low-carbohydrate option that maintains delicious flavor.

BBQ Chicken Recipe Variations

  • Low-Sodium Option: Replace regular BBQ sauce with homemade low-sodium sauce using tomato paste, vinegar, and herbs for a healthier version.
  • Tropical Mango Swap: Substitute pineapple slices with fresh mango chunks for a different sweet and tangy flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free BBQ sauce and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Replace chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, maintaining the same cooking method and marinade for a plant-based meal.

Serving Pineapple BBQ Chicken

  • Tropical Luau Plate: Arrange chicken over coconut rice, garnish with extra pineapple chunks and a sprinkle of green onions for a Hawaiian-inspired feast.
  • Fresh Summer Salad Companion: Pair with a crisp mixed green salad topped with mandarin oranges and a light citrus vinaigrette to complement the sweet and tangy chicken.
  • Backyard BBQ Style: Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob, classic coleslaw, and buttery dinner rolls for a complete summer meal that screams outdoor dining.
  • Quick Meal Prep Option: Slice chicken and pack with quinoa and roasted vegetables for a delicious next-day lunch that stays moist and flavorful.

Storing BBQ Chicken Breast

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the chicken completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months to maintain best quality and flavor.
  • Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature until warmed through.
  • Warm chicken in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of chicken broth or extra BBQ sauce to prevent drying out, ensuring juicy and flavorful results.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few minutes longer to cook through.

  • How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and assemble it in the baking dish earlier in the day. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to eat. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

  • What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Any classic BBQ sauce will work well. Choose a sauce you enjoy, whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy.

Chicken Breasts Get Sweet Pineapple BBQ Love

  • Quick and Simple Prep: Whip up this delicious chicken dish with minimal ingredients and basic kitchen skills, perfect for home cooks of all levels.
  • Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the mouthwatering combination of tangy BBQ sauce and sweet pineapple that transforms ordinary chicken into a tropical taste sensation.
  • Healthy Weeknight Wonder: Pack protein and fruity goodness into a nutritious meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, making dinner time a breeze.
  • One-Pan Convenience: Minimize cleanup with this straightforward baking method that lets you cook and serve in the same dish, saving time and reducing kitchen mess.

Ingredients for Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breasts

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean and tender protein that serves as the main component of this flavorful dish.
Fruit Topping:
  • Pineapple Slices: Sweet and tangy fruit that adds moisture and tropical flavor to the chicken.
Seasoning and Sauce:
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Classic seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural taste.
  • BBQ Sauce: A rich, sweet, and slightly smoky condiment that provides depth and moisture to the chicken.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright herb that adds a fresh and colorful finishing touch to the dish.
Cooking Preparation:
  • Olive Oil: A light oil used to grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.
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Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
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Description

Sizzling Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast delivers tropical flavors that dance across dinner plates with irresistible Hawaiian-inspired charm. Juicy chicken breasts glazed in sweet and tangy sauce promise a quick, delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Fruits and Juices:

  • 1 can (8 ounces) pineapple slices (in juice, not syrup), drained
  • 1/4 cup (59 milliliters) pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple)

Sauces and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley

Optional:

  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 400°F and lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with a blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
  3. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, creating a single layer for uniform cooking.
  4. Delicately place vibrant pineapple slices atop each chicken breast, creating an appealing tropical presentation.
  5. Lavishly drizzle BBQ sauce over the chicken and pineapple, allowing the sauce to cascade and cover the entire surface.
  6. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  7. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain moisture.
  8. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and added freshness.
  9. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the pineapple is tender, presenting a delightful sweet and savory combination.

Notes

  • Check chicken thickness before cooking to ensure even baking and prevent dry meat.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness and food safety.
  • Choose low-sugar BBQ sauce for a healthier version of this dish.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a nice sear.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 243 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 460 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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