Description
This Pineapple Chicken Bake is a perfect blend of savory barbecue chicken and sweet pineapple, topped with a rich brown sugar-soy glaze. Baked to perfection in just 35 minutes, this recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful meal that's easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 tablespoons barbecue sauce (divided, thick works best)
Glaze
- 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Topping
- 2 cups pineapple slices or rings
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking pan with foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 6 thin cutlets. Brush both sides of each cutlet generously with barbecue sauce, using approximately 2 tablespoons per piece.
- Add Pineapple: Arrange the pineapple slices or rings evenly on top of each barbecue-coated chicken cutlet.
- Make Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the dark brown sugar and soy sauce until it forms a paste. Spoon this mixture evenly over the pineapple-topped chicken pieces.
- Bake Chicken: Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. In the last few minutes, baste the chicken by spooning the pan sauce over each piece to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Use a thick barbecue sauce for the best coating on the chicken cutlets.
- Cutting the chicken into cutlets helps it cook evenly and quickly.
- Basting the chicken near the end of baking ensures moist and flavorful meat.
- Letting the chicken rest before serving enhances juiciness.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed rice or a fresh green salad.
