Description
This Pineapple BBQ Baked Chicken Breast recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a sweet and smoky pineapple barbecue sauce. Tender chicken is baked to perfection and topped with pineapple tidbits for a tropical twist, making it a delicious and easy dinner option that pairs wonderfully with rice or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from can)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup canned pineapple tidbits (drained)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the chicken: Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a single layer inside the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Coat the chicken: Spoon the barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
- Add pineapple and olive oil: Scatter the drained pineapple tidbits over the chicken and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to add richness and help with caramelization.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the chicken to cook gently and absorb the flavors.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
- Broil for finish: For a caramelized and slightly crispy finish, switch the oven to broil on high and broil the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce—smoky, spicy, or sweet—to customize flavors.
- This recipe can also be made with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
