Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Juicy Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe for Dinner

Succulent pineapple BBQ chicken breast promises a mouthwatering adventure for dinner tonight.

Tropical flavors dance across your plate with surprising elegance.

Sweet and tangy notes create a perfect harmony in every bite.

Bold marinades infuse tender meat with incredible depth.

Weeknight meals can sparkle with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Home cooks adore simple recipes that deliver knockout flavor profiles.

Give this dish a chance to become your new favorite dinner sensation.

Everything for Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast

For the Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: Lean and tender meat that serves as the primary protein in this flavorful dish.
For the Flavor Enhancers:
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Seasonings that add depth and enhance the natural taste of the chicken.
  • BBQ Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that provides rich, smoky flavor to the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and promotes even cooking.
For the Fruity Topping:
  • Pineapple Chunks: Fresh fruit that adds a sweet and juicy element to the savory chicken.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Herbs: Optional topping that can add a pop of color and fresh flavor to the finished dish.

How to Cook Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast

How to Cook Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will create the perfect warm environment for transforming your chicken into a delicious masterpiece.

Step 2: Spice and Flavor the Chicken

Generously sprinkle the chicken breasts with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder

Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure every bite is packed with mouthwatering flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Vessel

Select a sturdy oven-safe dish that will comfortably hold your chicken breasts.

Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the dish, making sure they are not overcrowded.

Step 4: Create a Tropical Topping

Scatter fresh pineapple chunks over the chicken breasts.

Drizzle a generous amount of tangy BBQ sauce, allowing it to cascade over the meat and create a glossy, flavorful coating.

Step 5: Seal in the Moisture

Pour a light stream of olive oil across the top of the chicken.

This will help keep the meat juicy and promote a beautiful golden color during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

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

The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and displays a golden-brown exterior.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the sizzling chicken to a serving plate.

For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped herbs or add additional pineapple chunks on top. Enjoy your tropical-inspired chicken immediately while it’s hot and succulent.

Key Tips for Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast

  • Swap chicken breasts with thighs for more tender meat that absorbs marinades better.
  • Use homemade BBQ sauce to control sugar and sodium levels for a healthier version.
  • Ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
  • Add fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for extra brightness and flavor complexity.
  • Check chicken halfway through cooking to prevent drying out and baste with extra sauce if needed.

Try New Tastes with Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast

  • Tropical Island Kick: Replace BBQ sauce with mango salsa and add sliced jalapeños for a spicy Caribbean-inspired chicken dish.
  • Hawaiian Luau Style: Mix pineapple juice into the BBQ sauce and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the chicken before baking for an authentic island flavor.
  • Smoky Chipotle Version: Swap traditional BBQ sauce with chipotle-pineapple sauce and add smoked paprika to the seasoning for a deeper, richer taste profile.
  • Herb Garden Remix: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, and basil into the chicken seasoning, and use a honey-mustard BBQ sauce for a more herbaceous experience.

Sharing Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast with Family

  • Tropical Luau Platter: Slice the chicken and arrange over coconut rice, surrounded by grilled pineapple rings and a sprinkle of green onions for a Hawaiian-inspired feast.
  • Sandwich Sensation: Shred the baked chicken and pile onto toasted brioche buns with a tangy slaw, creating a mouthwatering lunch option that bursts with sweet and savory flavors.
  • Salad Spectacular: Chop the chicken and toss with mixed greens, diced pineapple, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and protein-packed meal that's perfect for warm days.
  • Meal Prep Marvel: Portion the chicken into containers with quinoa and roasted vegetables for easy, grab-and-go lunches that keep you excited about healthy eating throughout the week.

Ways to Store Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm refrigerated chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
  • Prepare chicken in advance and portion into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week. Label containers with date and contents for quick identification.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture.

  • What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose a sweet and tangy sauce like honey or pineapple-flavored BBQ sauce to complement the chicken’s flavor profile.

  • How can I check if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken breast.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check the BBQ sauce label to confirm, as some brands contain gluten. Many store-bought and homemade BBQ sauces are naturally gluten-free.

Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Highlights

  • Conquer Weeknight Dinner: This recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal preparation, perfect for busy families craving delicious comfort food.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like adding different vegetables or using alternative cheeses to match your taste preferences without compromising the dish's core flavors.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup by using a single baking dish, making this recipe a stress-free solution for home cooks who want maximum taste with minimal effort.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Packed with rich Italian-inspired flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, creamy cheese, and tender chicken, this casserole appeals to both adults and kids at family gatherings or casual dinners.
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Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Baked Pineapple BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe


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4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Juicy pineapple BBQ chicken breast combines tropical sweetness with tangy barbecue flavors. Tender chicken emerges perfectly glazed, promising a delightful meal for anyone craving island-inspired comfort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to a scorching 400F (200C), ensuring an ideal cooking environment for juicy chicken.
  2. Generously coat chicken breasts with a blend of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and aromatic garlic powder, massaging the seasonings into the meat.
  3. Arrange the seasoned chicken in a spacious oven-safe ceramic or glass baking dish, creating enough space between pieces for even heat circulation.
  4. Distribute vibrant, sweet pineapple chunks across the surface of each chicken breast, allowing the fruit’s natural juices to infuse into the meat.
  5. Lavishly drizzle high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the chicken and pineapple, which will help create a golden, crisp exterior.
  6. Liberally spread tangy BBQ sauce across the chicken, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor penetration.
  7. Slide the prepared dish into the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, checking internal chicken temperature reaches 165F for safe consumption.
  8. Once cooked, remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
  9. Plate the chicken and optionally garnish with additional fresh pineapple chunks or finely chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking and prevent dry edges.
  • Create a flavorful marinade by mixing BBQ sauce with pineapple juice for an extra punch of tropical sweetness.
  • Choose a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce to reduce overall calories and control sugar content for health-conscious eaters.
  • Slice pineapple chunks uniformly to promote consistent caramelization and prevent some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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