Baked Pineapple Chicken(6 Servings)
Baked Pineapple Chicken combines sweet pineapple slices with savory seasoned chicken breasts, glazed with a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors with a hint of rosemary. It’s easy to prepare and visually appealing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple slices and reserve the juice.
- Combine the pineapple juice with garlic powder, cornstarch, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and rosemary to make the sauce.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in a shallow broiler-proof dish, skin side up or skinless, and broil until browned.
- Stir the sauce and pour it over the chicken.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes.
- Arrange lemon slices and pineapple around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Spoon the sauce from the baking pan over the chicken and continue baking for 5 more minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier texture. If you don't have Dijon mustard, yellow mustard works in a pinch. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried rosemary for a more vibrant flavor. Be sure to keep an eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Pineapple Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light quinoa dish for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or a tropical mocktail can further enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and pineapple in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven helps maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Pineapple Chicken(6 Servings) contains roughly 211 calories, with 23g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. At about 211 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a fresher taste. Just slice and grill the pineapple for a few minutes before adding it to the dish. This will help enhance the sweetness and add a lovely charred flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the sauce a day in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine them and follow the baking instructions. This can save you time on busy weeknights.
What can I do if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing soy sauce with a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar. This will mimic the tangy, savory flavors of Worcestershire and work well in this recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).