Introduction
Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with this baked Hawaiian chicken recipe. Combining the sweetness of pineapple and mandarin oranges with savory barbecue sauce creates a dish that is as pleasing to the palate as it is visually appealing. Serve it over fluffy white rice, and you have a meal that is perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 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
– ½ cup orange juice
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Indulge in this scrumptious baked Hawaiian chicken, bursting with fresh flavors and aromas that will surely please your family and friends. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 3: Drain Pineapple Juice
Drain the pineapple juice from the can over the chicken, reserving the pineapple chunks for later.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
Step 5: Make 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 Excess Liquid
After 1 hour, remove the chicken from the oven and drain any excess liquid from the pan.
Step 7: Coat Chicken with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 8: Add Fruit
Add the reserved pineapple chunks and drained mandarin oranges to the pan, distributing them evenly around the chicken.
Step 9: Final Baking
Return the pan to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
Step 10: Serve
Serve the baked Hawaiian chicken over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs based on preference.
Note 2: Sauce Consistency
Ensure the sauce is well-mixed and fully heated for proper coating on the chicken.
Note 3: Garnish
Sliced green onions can elevate the presentation and add a fresh flavor to the dish.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in pineapple juice before baking helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor from the pineapple.
Baking
Baking the chicken covered initially allows it to cook evenly and retain moisture, preventing it from drying out.
Sauce Preparation
Combining barbecue sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and ground ginger in a saucepan over medium heat ensures the sugar dissolves completely and the flavors meld together for a richer sauce.
Layering Ingredients
Adding pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges after the initial baking period allows these fruits to warm through without becoming mushy, maintaining their texture.
Serving Technique
Serving the chicken over a bed of cooked rice helps soak up the delicious sauce, making for a flavorful and complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to allow additional cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce complements the flavors of the pineapple and orange juice perfectly.
Can I substitute fresh fruits for canned ones?
Yes, fresh pineapple and mandarin oranges can be used instead of canned for a fresher taste, but be mindful of cooking times.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
To add spice, consider mixing in some chili powder or hot sauce into the barbecue sauce before pouring it over the chicken.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This delicious baked Hawaiian chicken dish combines the sweetness of pineapple and mandarin oranges with a flavorful barbecue sauce, making for a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Served over a bed of rice, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The addition of sliced green onions adds a fresh touch, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pineapple Chicken Skewers
Marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger, then grill them along with pineapple chunks and bell peppers for a fresh, smoky flavor.
Mandarin Orange Salad with Grilled Chicken
Toss mixed greens with sliced grilled chicken, mandarin orange segments, toasted almonds, and a sesame vinaigrette for a light and refreshing salad.
Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir-Fry
Sauté chicken pieces with bell peppers and broccoli, then add a sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, and brown sugar for a tangy stir-fry dish.
Pineapple Fried Rice
Fry cooked rice with diced pineapple, peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs; season with soy sauce and sesame oil for a delicious fried rice variation.
BBQ Chicken Wraps
Shred leftover chicken from the baked Hawaiian dish and toss it with extra barbecue sauce, then wrap in tortillas with lettuce and pineapple salsa for a quick meal on the go.
