1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preparing the chicken. If you’re using chicken breasts, you may want to tenderize them slightly to ensure even cooking. You can do this by gently pounding the chicken with a meat mallet to an even thickness.

Next, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). The seasonings will enhance the chicken’s natural flavor and provide a savory base to complement the BBQ sauce.

2. Prepare the Pineapple BBQ Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, and crushed pineapple. Mix well until the pineapple is evenly incorporated into the sauce. The pineapple juice will add tangy sweetness to the sauce, while the crushed pineapple will give it extra texture and flavor.

If you like your BBQ sauce on the spicier side, you can add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the mixture. Alternatively, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a little honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors.

3. Sear the Chicken (Optional)

While not necessary, searing the chicken before baking will help lock in the flavors and create a crispy exterior. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This step is optional but helps create a delicious texture and flavor.

4. Arrange the Chicken in the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a small amount of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the pineapple BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the sauce. Make sure the chicken is covered in sauce for maximum flavor infusion during baking.

5. Bake the Chicken

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure the chicken is tender and juicy.

After 30-35 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and caramelize slightly, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze over the chicken.

6. Check the Chicken and Finish Baking

Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F (75°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue baking for a few more minutes.

Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender.

7. Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. For extra flavor and crunch, you can sprinkle sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top.

Serve the Pineapple BBQ Baked Chicken with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile meal that can be tailored to your preferences.