Baked Pineapple Chicken Thighs

Name: Baked Pineapple Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin on; 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

When I first experimented with Baked Pineapple Chicken Thighs, I wanted to create a dish that balanced sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The juicy, tender chicken pairs beautifully with the caramelized pineapple, and the tangy sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level. It’s a delightful option for dinner parties or a simple family meal. I love how easy it is to bring together, and the vibrant colors make it visually appealing on the plate. Each bite offers a taste of tropical paradise, assured to impress anyone at the table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T05:09:27.888Z

My first encounter with Baked Pineapple Chicken Thighs was an absolute revelation. I had some fresh pineapple lying around and decided to experiment. I marinated the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, honey, and garlic, then added the pineapple for a touch of sweetness. The results were phenomenal! Using fresh pineapple really enhances the flavor, giving the dish a lively, tropical twist.

One tip I learned is to ensure the chicken thighs are skin-on for extra crispiness. Bake them until the skin is golden brown, allowing the juices to soak into the chicken while the pineapple caramelizes. This method not only keeps the meat moist but also creates a deliciously sticky glaze that you’ll want to slather on everything!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken thighs infused with sweet and tangy pineapple
A quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners
An impressive dish that doubles as a complete meal

The Importance of Marination

Marinating the chicken thighs is a crucial step that not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps in tenderizing it. The combination of soy sauce and honey works wonders, creating a balance of savory and sweet. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating time, but if you can let it sit for 2-4 hours, the flavor will penetrate deeper, making each bite even more flavorful. Consider using a zip-top bag for easy tossing and even coating.

When marinating, remember to refrigerate the chicken to prevent bacterial growth. If you're short on time, you can also marinate the chicken at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, but this is less effective. The key is to allow the sauce to break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a tender, juicy texture once baked.

Choosing the Right Pineapple

Using fresh pineapple chunks is essential for achieving that vibrant flavor profile in the dish. Canned pineapple can be used in a pinch, but be cautious of added sugars that can alter the overall taste. If you opt for fresh, select a ripe pineapple that has a sweet aroma and gives slightly when pressed. This will ensure optimal sweetness and juiciness, complementing the savory elements of the chicken beautifully.

Consider slicing the pineapple into rings if you're looking to create a visually stunning presentation. This way, each piece of chicken can have its own ring of caramelized pineapple on top, offering a lovely color contrast and enhancing the tropical feel of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin on
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create this delicious dish:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat well. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin side up in the dish, and scatter the pineapple chunks around them.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, basting occasionally with the pan juices.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!

Pair this dish with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade. This dish also works great on the grill if you prefer a smoky flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The Baked Pineapple Chicken Thighs can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. After baking, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture of the chicken without drying it out.

To further enhance your meal prep, consider prepping the marinade a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to cook, just add the chicken thighs. This not only saves time but ensures that the flavors marry beautifully overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the baked chicken thighs with a side of coconut rice or jasmine rice to complete the tropical theme. The slight sweetness from the rice will complement the dish beautifully. You can also serve it alongside a crisp garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the chicken and pineapple.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini around the chicken in the baking dish. This not only provides additional flavor but makes for a stunning one-pan meal that’s easy to serve and clean up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts will cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

→ Is there a substitute for honey?

Yes, you can use maple syrup or brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but canned pineapple can work in a pinch.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.