This Baked Chicken with Pineapple & Brown Sugar recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken is marinated in a mixture of pineapple juice and brown sugar, creating a caramelized glaze as it bakes. The tangy pineapple pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the brown sugar, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice, undrained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the pineapple juice from the can, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Mix until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably for 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Assemble the dish: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a baking dish. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of each chicken breast. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken.
- Bake the chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the top, then cover the baking dish with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra pineapple slices or fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy this sweet and savory baked chicken with your favorite side dishes!
