Name: Baked Pineapple Chicken: Your Family's New Favorite Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 large Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless); to taste Salt; to taste Ground Black Pepper; 1 cup Full-Fat Mayonnaise (or light mayo for a lower-calorie option); 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist); 1 tablespoon Curry Powder (omit for milder flavors); 20 oz Pineapple Chunks (from a can, fresh can be used if dried well); 1 large Yellow Onion (sautéed); 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded, consider cheddar for variety); 1 tablespoon Fresh Chopped Parsley (or cilantro for variety)

The first time I pulled this Baked Pineapple Chicken out of the oven, I could hardly believe my eyes. The vibrant golden top, bubbling cheese, and sweet pineapple chunks created a dish that looked straight out of a gourmet restaurant! With each whiff of its tropical aroma, I was instantly transported to a sunny beach paradise. This delightful recipe is not just a feast for the senses — it’s also a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike.

Combining savory chicken fillets with sautéed onions and a creamy mayo-sour cream mixture, this dish strikes that ideal balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or accompany it with a fresh salad, it’s sure to impress both your family and guests. Plus, with its quick prep time, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moments that matter. Ready to take your taste buds on a tropical journey? Let’s dive into making this family-friendly favorite!

Why Will You Love Baked Pineapple Chicken?

Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a delectable taste that dances on your palate.

Effortless Preparation: This dish combines straightforward steps, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Family-Friendly: It caters to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied and excited to dig in.

Versatile Pairing: Whether served with rice, salad, or veggies, it complements a variety of sides for a well-rounded meal.

Tropical Vibes: Savor the essence of a beach vacation right at home, bringing a hint of the islands to your dining table.

Quick Baking Time: In just 12-15 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy delight ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful culinary journey.

Baked Pineapple Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Large, boneless, skinless breasts provide the protein base for this delicious baked pineapple chicken.
• Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust according to your taste.

For the Sauce
• Full-Fat Mayonnaise – Gives a rich, creamy texture; light mayo can work if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
• Sour Cream – Adds a delightful creaminess; Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you want a tangy twist.
• Curry Powder – Brings warmth and a bit of spice; if you prefer milder flavors, you can simply omit it.

For the Toppings
• Pineapple Chunks (20 oz can) – These lend sweetness and tropical flair to your dish; fresh pineapple is also an option but remember to dry it well.
• Yellow Onion (1 large) – Sautéed to create a sweet and savory layer; other onion varieties work just as well if you prefer.
• Monterey Jack Cheese (2 cups shredded) – Melts beautifully for a gooey topping; consider cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for variety.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Chopped Parsley (1 tablespoon) – Adds a pop of color; cilantro can be a flavorful alternative if you’re feeling adventurous.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to crafting a memorable Baked Pineapple Chicken that brings a taste of the tropics right into your home!

How to Make Baked Pineapple Chicken

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and even baking of your chicken.
Cut and pound the chicken breasts into 4 uniform fillets. Season them generously with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for full flavor.
Drain and pat dry the pineapple chunks using paper towels. This will help prevent excess moisture in the dish, ensuring a delightful texture.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped yellow onion until it turns golden brown, which will add a delicious sweetness to the dish, then set aside.
Mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and curry powder in a mixing bowl. Season the mixture to taste, creating a creamy base for your chicken.
Arrange the chicken fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Top each fillet with sautéed onions and pineapple chunks, then spread the creamy mixture over everything, finishing with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). For a crispy topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy this tropical delight!

Optional: Serve with steamed rice or a fresh green salad to elevate the meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Pineapple Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken fillets, season them, and even mix the creamy mayo-sour cream sauce up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate the coated chicken in an airtight container. The pineapple chunks can also be prepped by draining and patting them dry, storing them separately to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to bake, arrange everything on a lined baking sheet, top with onions and cheese, then pop it in the oven for that just-baked deliciousness. You’ll have the same vibrant, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort for your family dinner, saving you precious time while enjoying this tropical favorite!

Baked Pineapple Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Protein Swap: Swap chicken for turkey or pork for a delightful twist; each will bring its unique flavor to the dish.
Veggie Boost: Add colorful bell peppers or spicy jalapeños to the mix for an extra burst of color and heat.
Cheese Change: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda to alter the flavor profile; feta adds a delightful tang that’s hard to resist.
Herbal Infusion: Sprinkle in some fresh thyme or basil instead of parsley for an aromatic change that ramps up the flavor.
Curry-Free: Omit the curry powder for a simpler, milder taste; this lets the natural sweetness of the pineapple shine through beautifully.
Tropical Touch: Toss in a handful of coconut flakes to the pineapple topping for a hint of tropical sweetness.
Creamy Alternative: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and a tangy flavor that complements the chicken wonderfully.
Healthy Twist: Try using low-fat mayo or a plant-based alternative for a lighter rendition that doesn’t skimp on creaminess.

Each variation adds its own unique touch, giving you endless possibilities to make this dish your own!

Storage Tips for Baked Pineapple Chicken

Fridge: Refrigerate leftover Baked Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals throughout the week.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to maintain moisture and flavor without drying it out.
Freezer: Avoid freezing leftovers, as the creamy mayo-sour cream mixture may separate when thawed, affecting the dish’s texture and taste.
Serving Reminder: Before serving leftovers, always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s heated through to 165°F for safe consumption.

Expert Tips for Baked Pineapple Chicken

Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensure your chicken is pounded to a uniform thickness for consistent cooking. This helps prevent dryness and ensures every bite is juicy.
Use Thermometer: Invest in an instant-read thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking your chicken. The internal temperature should be 165°F for perfect doneness.
Pat Dry Pineapple: Always pat the pineapple chunks dry with paper towels before adding them to the dish. This step prevents excess moisture, keeping the Baked Pineapple Chicken from becoming soggy.
Broil for Golden Finish: For an extra crispy and golden cheese topping, don’t skip the broiler at the end! Just 1-2 minutes will add that lovely char.
Avoid Freezing Leftovers: Due to the creamy mayo-sour cream mixture, leftovers do not freeze well as they can separate when thawed. Store in the fridge for best results.

What to Serve with Baked Pineapple Chicken?

Enhance your tropical meal with delightful sides that balance sweetness and savory notes, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Offers a fragrant base that soaks up the creamy sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and vegetables adds a crunch and lightness, perfectly complementing the dish’s richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies bring extra nutrients and flavors to the table, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Sweet Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this dish echoes the tropical tones of the chicken, delivering a deliciously sweet contrast. Each bite is like dessert!
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks serve as a delightful vehicle for the creamy sauce and juicy pineapple, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
Mango Salsa: A vibrant, fresh topping made with diced mango, red onion, and lime juice adds a burst of fruity flavor that brightens each bite of chicken.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: For dessert, this classic sweet treat echoes the flavors of the main dish, providing a delightful end to your tropical feast.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and light, this drink enhances the tropical theme while cleansing the palate between bites.

Baked Pineapple Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of pineapple should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned pineapple chunks for convenience, but fresh pineapple works wonderfully too. If using fresh, ensure it’s perfectly ripe and patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy.

How should I store leftover Baked Pineapple Chicken?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness. I often make sure to label the container with the date, so I know when to enjoy them again.

Can I freeze Baked Pineapple Chicken?
I recommend avoiding freezing leftovers because the creamy mayo-sour cream mixture can separate upon thawing, resulting in an unappealing texture. Instead, refrigerate and enjoy within a few days!

How do I ensure my chicken is cooked properly?
Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to guarantee perfect chicken! Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, and it should read 165°F. If you err on the side of caution, you can bake the chicken for a bit longer, but keep an eye on it to prevent drying out.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider substitutions such as using low-fat mayonnaise for a lighter option or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist. Additionally, if you’re cooking for someone with a pineapple allergy, you can create a similar dish by using peaches or mango for a sweet touch without the risk!

What should I serve with Baked Pineapple Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad. You could even add grilled veggies for a colorful and healthy side! The tropical flavors of the chicken will complement these sides wonderfully, creating a well-rounded meal.