Oven Baked Chicken With Fruit
Oven baked chicken with sweet pineapple and tangy orange slices creates a flavorful, family-friendly dish perfect for a comforting dinner with rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chicken in hot oil.
- Drain the chicken pieces.
- Arrange the chicken in an oblong baking dish.
- Combine crushed pineapple and barbecue sauce; spread over the chicken.
- Cover and refrigerate for 3 to 24 hours.
- Bake, covered, at 375°F for 50 to 60 minutes.
- Spoon off excess fat from the dish.
- Garnish with drained Mandarin orange slices and spoon sauce over all.
- Serve with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in the pineapple and barbecue sauce mixture overnight. If you're out of pineapple, mango or peach preserves can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is browned well for added depth of flavor. You can also use chicken thighs instead of pieces for juicier results, similar to other popular chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, which can soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad can add a nice contrast to the meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside country cornbread stuffing to round out the flavors. A light fruit salad can also complement the sweetness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Chicken With Fruit contains roughly 578 calories, with 18g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 772mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but be mindful that the cooking time may be reduced. Boneless pieces will cook faster, so check for doneness at around 35-40 minutes to avoid drying them out.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, you can use skinless chicken pieces and opt for a low-sugar barbecue sauce. Additionally, adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the baking dish can enhance the nutrition without compromising flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead. Just keep the chicken refrigerated until you're ready to bake it. This makes it an excellent option for entertaining, as you can focus on other preparations.
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).