Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken Bake

Name: Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love the way flavors come together in my Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken Bake. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant pineapple, and Mediterranean spices creates a dish that is both savory and slightly sweet. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend meal. It never fails to impress my family and friends, leaving them wanting more. Plus, it’s an easy way to add a tropical twist to classic chicken dishes!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T13:08:58.451Z

When I first came across this Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken Bake, I was intrigued by the fusion of flavors. The juicy sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory notes of the Mediterranean spices beautifully. I remember making it for a gathering, and everyone raved about how refreshing and flavorful it was.

One tip that I found crucial is to let the chicken marinate briefly in olive oil and herbs before baking. This step enhances the flavor profile immensely, ensuring that each bite is packed with deliciousness. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Unique blend of sweet pineapple and savory spices
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Perfect balance of flavors for any occasion

      

The Role of Marinade

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances both flavor and tenderness. The combination of olive oil, dried herbs, and spices forms a savory glaze that penetrates the chicken, infusing it with rich Mediterranean flavors. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator, can significantly improve your dish by intensifying the taste and ensuring a juicy texture once cooked. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute marinade will still yield delightful results.

Olive oil not only adds lubrication for cooking but also helps to keep the chicken moist during baking. The dried oregano, paprika, and garlic powder work together to create a flavorful crust that caramelizes during cooking, presenting a beautiful golden color and a delicious aroma. If you want to experiment, consider substituting dried thyme for oregano or adding a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick.

Pineapple: Fresh vs. Canned

Opting for fresh pineapple in this recipe elevates the dish's overall quality, but if unavailable, canned pineapple can serve as a convenient substitute. Fresh pineapple offers a delightful crunch and vibrant flavor that perfectly complements the savory spices. When using fresh pineapple, make sure to cut it into uniform chunks for even distribution and cooking. Canned pineapple can be a time-saver; just ensure you drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the dish, as that could lead to a watery result.

Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter profile, try caramelizing the pineapple before adding it to the chicken. Simply sauté the pineapple chunks in a skillet with a touch of olive oil until they start to turn golden and develop rich flavors. This technique can enhance the overall taste, introducing a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bake

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Enjoy your Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken Bake!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for about 10 minutes.

Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, place the marinated chicken breasts. Scatter the fresh pineapple chunks over the chicken, ensuring an even distribution.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your dish warm, paired with a side of rice or salad.

Let the flavors meld together for a delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of lime juice before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken Bake with a side of fragrant jasmine rice or a light mixed greens salad can complement the dish beautifully. The rice not only absorbs the savory juices of the chicken and pineapple, enhancing the meal's flavor, but also makes for a heartier presentation. For a more Mediterranean touch, consider adding olives or feta cheese to the salad for extra flavor and texture.

Additionally, a dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side can provide a refreshing coolness that balances the warm, spiced flavors of the chicken. If you're hosting a dinner party, serving this dish family-style in the baking dish creates a welcoming atmosphere, allowing guests to help themselves and enjoy the vibrant colors.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly ensures that you can enjoy the dish later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheating in the oven helps maintain moisture; simply cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for around 15-20 minutes, until heated through.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the baked chicken. Portion it out in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw the night before in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned, or enjoy it cold in salads or wraps for a quick meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

→ How long does leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover Mediterranean Pineapple Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! Mango or peaches would work well as alternatives to pineapple.

→ What side dishes go well with this chicken bake?

This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad, rice, or couscous for a complete meal.