Baked Pineapple Chicken Bowls

Introduction

When I first made Baked Pineapple Chicken Bowls, I had no idea how quickly they would become a family favorite. The sweet and savory combination of pineapple, chicken, and a rich sauce had everyone asking for seconds! Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it also comes together in no time. The tender chicken coated in a delightful glaze paired with the fresh, juicy pineapple creates a tropical escape right in your kitchen. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or even special occasions, and I can confidently say it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• For the Sauce:
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (optional)
• For the Chicken:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• For Serving:
• 2 cups diced pineapple (canned or fresh)
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C). Lightly oil a 9×13 baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and Sriracha (if using). Set this sauce aside; it will infuse the chicken with amazing flavors as it bakes.
3. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken chunks with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in the cornstarch until the chicken is well coated.
4. Dip in Eggs: Working one piece of chicken at a time, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Assemble the Dish: In the prepared baking dish, combine the browned chicken and diced pineapple. Pour the pineapple juice mixture over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the Baked Pineapple Chicken Bowls hot, straight from the oven.
• Consider these serving ideas:
• Over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• With a side of stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition.
• As a filling in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Top with fresh cilantro or extra green onions for added flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Pineapple: For the best flavor, opt for fresh pineapple over canned.
2. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the Sriracha.
3. Marinate: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking.
4. Meal Prep: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
5. Leftover Chicken: Use leftover chicken for salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries.

Recipe Variations

• Pineapple Chicken Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple onto skewers and grill for a smoky flavor.
• Coconut Pineapple Chicken: Add coconut milk to the sauce for a creamier, richer taste.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the dish.
• Offer a side of roasted broccoli or green beans for added nutrients and color.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.

1. Is there a gluten-free option?

• Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free.

1. Can I use another type of fruit?

• Yes, you can experiment with mango or peaches for a different flavor profile.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

1. What can I substitute for brown sugar?

• You can use coconut sugar or honey as a substitute.

1. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

• Yes, you can prep everything and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

1. How spicy is this dish?

• The spice level depends on the amount of Sriracha used; you can adjust it to your preference.

1. What should I serve with this dish?

• It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, just ensure you have a large enough baking dish and adjust cooking time if necessary.

1. What type of chicken works best?
   • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for even cooking.

Conclusion

Baked Pineapple Chicken Bowls are a fantastic way to bring tropical flavors to your table. They are easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these bowls deliver on taste and satisfaction. Enjoy the sweet and savory combination that makes each bite a delight!

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