Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake

Name: Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake for my family, as it’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that never fails to impress. The juicy chicken works perfectly with the tangy pineapple, creating a dish that feels both comforting and tropical. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe always brings smiles to our table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T12:32:47.133Z

When I first tried Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake, I was amazed at how a handful of ingredients could create such vibrant flavors. The key is the marinating process; letting the chicken soak up the pineapple juice enhances both its tenderness and flavor profile. I also discovered that using bone-in chicken thighs offers a juicier result compared to breasts, which I highly recommend if you want a succulent dish.

Furthermore, adding bell peppers not only boosts the dish's nutritional value but also contributes a lovely crunch that balances the softness of the chicken and pineapple. These little adjustments have transformed my recipe into a family favorite that I’m proud to serve at every dinner party!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory balance that delights the palate
Juicy chicken that's bursting with flavor
Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of chicken thighs over breasts in this recipe greatly enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. Chicken thighs are naturally juicier and tend to remain tender during baking, making them a great match for the tangy teriyaki sauce and sweet pineapple. If you're looking to lighten the dish a bit, you could substitute with skinless chicken thighs, but keep in mind that this may yield a slightly less rich flavor profile.

Using fresh pineapple adds a vibrant brightness to the dish, as its acidity helps to balance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. If using canned pineapple, opt for chunks packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier alternative. Just remember to drain the pineapple to prevent excess liquid from altering the dish's texture.

Techniques for Success

When layering the ingredients in the baking dish, ensure the chicken is positioned skin-side up. This promotes even browning and crispiness while the juices from the other ingredients help to keep the chicken moist. A good tip is to spoon some of the pineapple mixture over the chicken halfway through the baking time for even more flavor infusion.

Monitoring the temperature of the chicken is essential for perfect doneness. Using a meat thermometer, make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is both safe to eat and still juicy. If you notice that the skin isn’t crispy enough, you can switch the oven to broil for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

This Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake works wonderfully served over a bed of fluffy rice, which soaks up the delectable juices from the dish. Alternatively, you could serve it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the meal with some crunch and freshness. For a tropical touch, adding slices of avocado or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro can elevate the flavor profile.

If considering leftovers, you can refrigerate any unused portions in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheating gently in the oven preserves the texture better than a microwave, as it helps maintain the chicken's crispness. For meal prep, the bake can be assembled a day in advance, stored in the fridge, and then simply popped into the oven for dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bake

4 bone-in chicken thighs
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Gather all ingredients and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, teriyaki sauce, sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic.

Season the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in a baking dish. Pour the pineapple mixture over the chicken, ensuring everything is coated.

Bake It

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with rice or a side salad!

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce for a few hours before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce available at most grocery stores. This swap retains the signature flavor profile while accommodating dietary needs. For a spicier version, considering adding slices of jalapeño or a dash of chili flakes to the pineapple mixture for a kick without overpowering the dish.

For those sensitive to garlic, minced garlic can be replaced with garlic powder, adjusting to taste. Additionally, experimenting with different bell pepper colors can add visual variety while keeping the flavor balanced. Yellow and orange peppers tend to be sweeter, enhancing the dish's overall sweetness.

Culinary Variations

You can easily transform this dish by introducing additional vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or even zucchini. These vegetables can be added to the pineapple mixture, increasing the nutritional value and adding more texture. If you prefer a one-pan meal, treat the veggies as a base layer for the chicken, allowing their natural flavors to blend during cooking.

For a different flavor twist, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours prior to baking. This enhances the flavor infusion and can create a bit of caramelization on the skin during the baking process, giving it an even more intense taste. Additionally, for a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead after initial marination, then add the pineapple mixture for a brief bake until bubbling.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy weeknights, prepare the chicken and pineapple mixture early in the day or even the night before. Simply keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This not only makes for quick dinners but also allows the flavors to meld together more deeply, enhancing the overall taste.

If you plan to freeze the dish, assemble it in a freezer-safe container without baking it first. When you're ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. Just be aware that it might take a bit longer in the oven if coming from a cooler temperature.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out faster. Try to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a few hours in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Bake?

This dish goes well with white rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! Once baked, you can portion it out for lunches throughout the week.