Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that brings a taste of the tropics to your dining table? This baked Hawaiian chicken recipe combines succulent chicken with sweet pineapple and mandarin oranges, all smothered in a flavorful barbecue and ginger sauce. Served over fluffy white rice, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice
– 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving the juice. Pour the reserved pineapple juice over the chicken.
4. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the barbecue sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is heated through.
6. After 1 hour, remove the chicken from the oven and drain any excess liquid from the pan.
7. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
8. Add the drained pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges to the pan, distributing them evenly around the chicken.
9. Return the pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
10. Serve the baked Hawaiian chicken over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 3: Add Pineapple Juice
Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving the juice. Pour the reserved pineapple juice over the chicken.
Step 4: Cover and Bake
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the barbecue sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is heated through.
Step 6: Drain the Chicken
After 1 hour, remove the chicken from the oven and drain any excess liquid from the pan.
Step 7: Coat the Chicken
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 8: Add Fruits
Add the drained pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges to the pan, distributing them evenly around the chicken.
Step 9: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 10: Serve
Serve the baked Hawaiian chicken over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chicken Cuts
You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference.
Sauce Variations
Feel free to adjust the barbecue sauce flavor by using different types such as smoky or sweet variations.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Oven Baking
Oven baking involves cooking food in an enclosed space with dry heat. Preheating the oven to the correct temperature ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
Layering Ingredients
Layering ingredients in a baking dish helps distribute flavors evenly. Placing chicken at the bottom allows it to soak up juices from the fruits and sauce, enhancing taste.
Foil Covering
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil traps steam, which keeps the chicken moist during the initial baking period. This technique prevents the meat from drying out.
Sauce Preparation
Combining ingredients in a saucepan allows for controlled heating. Stirring until the sugar dissolves ensures a smooth sauce that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Draining Excess Liquid
Draining excess liquid before adding sauce prevents the dish from becoming overly watery. This technique helps achieve a thicker, more flavorful coating on the chicken.
Baking Uncovered
Baking uncovered for a final period allows the sauce to bubble and thicken, creating a caramelized finish. This adds texture and depth to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but it may alter the texture and flavor. Skinless is recommended for a leaner dish.
What can I substitute for pineapple chunks?
You can substitute pineapple chunks with diced peaches or similar fruity options for a different flavor profile.
Is it necessary to preheat the oven?
Yes, preheating the oven is necessary to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly from the start.
Can leftover sauce be used?
Yes, leftover sauce can be refrigerated and used for other dishes or as a marinade for meats.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture for a spicier flavor profile.
Conclusion
This baked Hawaiian chicken dish combines the sweetness of pineapple and mandarin oranges with the savory notes of barbecue sauce, creating a delightful fusion of flavors. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, it makes for a comforting and satisfying meal suitable for any occasion. The simplicity of the recipe allows for easy preparation, making it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple
Marinate chicken in teriyaki sauce, then grill or bake with fresh pineapple slices. Serve over rice or in lettuce wraps.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prepare chicken in a sweet and sour sauce with bell peppers, pineapple, and carrots, served over fried rice or steamed rice.
Chicken Stir-fry with Citrus
Sauté chicken pieces with an assortment of vegetables and a sauce made from orange juice, ginger, and soy sauce. Serve with jasmine rice.
Barbecue Chicken Tacos
Shred leftover barbecue chicken and serve in tortillas with pineapple salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a delicious taco night.
Grilled Chicken Salad with Mandarin Oranges
Top mixed greens with grilled chicken, mandarin oranges, sliced almonds, and a sesame dressing for a refreshing salad option.
