Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the rich, smoky flavor of barbecue sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, sweet pineapple, and savory BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, offering a delicious and nutritious meal with minimal prep time. Enjoy the combination of juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and sweet pineapple in this simple yet flavorful dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy! Here’s how to make this delicious dish:
Ingredients
To prepare Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast, you will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Method
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each chicken breast with olive oil to ensure they stay moist during baking.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring each breast is well-coated. Reserve a small amount of BBQ sauce for basting later.
- Arrange the pineapple slices on top of and around the chicken breasts.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and baste the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, place the baking dish under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to caramelize the BBQ sauce and pineapple slices for extra flavor and color.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
- Serve the Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken
- Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before baking.
- Homemade BBQ Sauce: Making your own BBQ sauce allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness and spiciness to your liking.
Versatile and Delicious
Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast is a versatile recipe that can be customized in various ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy variation.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate other tropical fruits, such as mango or papaya, alongside the pineapple for a fruity twist.
- Grilled Version: In warmer months, try grilling the chicken breasts and pineapple slices for a smoky, charred flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Pineapple provides vitamin C, manganese, and other important nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being.
- Low Fat: By baking instead of frying, this recipe keeps the fat content low while maintaining moist and flavorful chicken.
