If you’re craving something that’s bursting with tropical flavors, juicy chicken, and melty cheese goodness, the Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe is your next go-to dinner winner. It’s a perfect harmony of savory barbecue, sweet pineapple, and tender chicken that comes together effortlessly in one dish. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a laid-back weekend treat, this recipe guarantees a satisfying and colorful plate that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role by adding unique flavors, textures, and a pop of color that makes the dish both delicious and visually appealing.
- 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless, skinless: The lean protein base that soaks up all the amazing flavors while staying juicy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and balances the sweetness from the pineapple.
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat for depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, pressed: Infuses the chicken with irresistible savory notes that elevate the entire bake.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce: Brings a tangy and smoky punch that pairs brilliantly with sweet pineapple.
- 20 oz pineapple rings (1 can, drained): Provides juicy bursts of tropical sweetness, cutting through the savory elements.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Creates a gooey, melty topping that blankets the Pineapple and chicken in creamy richness.
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness, crunch, and a mild onion bite to finish the dish.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bake will cook through evenly without drying out the chicken. Having a warmed oven ready keeps things efficient, especially for a dish this simple and quick.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Lay your boneless, skinless chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish. Season them thoroughly with salt and pepper, then press the garlic cloves over the top. This simple layering ensures every bite has that punch of flavor that garlic lovers will appreciate.
Step 3: Add the Barbecue Sauce
Spread the barbecue sauce evenly across each chicken breast. Think of this as the flavor glue that binds all the ingredients together, giving the dish its signature smoky sweetness.
Step 4: Layer the Pineapple Rings
Place the drained pineapple rings on top of the sauced chicken. The juice from the pineapple adds moisture and a juicy sweet contrast that makes this bake unmistakably Hawaiian.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the entire dish. As it melts, the cheese creates a rich, melty cover that ties the sweet and savory elements into one harmonious bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s moist and safe to eat. The cheese will be bubbling and slightly golden, signaling it’s ready.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top to add a fresh crunch and burst of color right before serving.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions gives the finished dish a fresh crispness and brightens up the presentation beautifully. If you want an extra pop of color and flavor, a few chili flakes can add a nice gentle heat to balance the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This hearty bake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed white rice or coconut rice to soak up the saucy goodness. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables can add a healthy and colorful balance, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets, letting each guest enjoy their own cheesy, saucy pineapple delight. Adding a wedge of lime on the side can also complement the tropical flavors in a visually appealing way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, simply cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or move them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it great for next-day lunches.
Freezing
If you want to keep the bake longer, it’s easy to freeze. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of pineapple may change slightly, but the delicious flavors will hold strong.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that gooey cheese and juicy chicken texture. Alternatively, the microwave works fine but cover the dish loosely to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor, so feel free to swap them in. Just make sure to adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to reach 165°F.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
You can use your favorite barbecue sauce, but something with a balanced sweet and smoky profile works best for this recipe. Avoid overly spicy sauces unless you want to add a bit of heat.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple rings make a fantastic substitute and can add a brighter, more natural sweetness. Just be sure to peel and core them properly before layering on the chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just double-check that your barbecue sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain additives or thickeners with gluten.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, simply omit the mozzarella cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. The dish will still be delicious and full of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors that’s wonderfully easy to prepare yet impressive enough to share with family and friends. If you’re looking for a fresh take on chicken dinners with a tropical twist, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your meal rotation. Grab those ingredients and get baking—you’re in for a truly tasty treat!
Print
Hawaiian Chicken Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hawaiian Chicken Bake is a delicious, easy-to-make meal featuring tender chicken breasts topped with sweet pineapple rings, tangy barbecue sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to perfection and garnished with fresh green onions, it’s a tropical-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless, skinless
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, pressed
Toppings
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 20 oz pineapple rings (1 can, drained)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Garnish
- 3 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish. Season them evenly with salt, ground black pepper, and pressed garlic to infuse flavor into the meat.
- Add barbecue sauce: Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the surface of each chicken breast, adding a tangy and sweet base for the toppings.
- Arrange pineapple rings: Lay the drained pineapple rings on top of the barbecue-coated chicken to add a juicy, tropical sweetness.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pineapple and chicken, which will melt and create a creamy texture during baking.
- Bake the dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the chicken bake from the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions for freshness and color, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can use fresh pineapple rings if preferred, just make sure to drain any excess juice to avoid sogginess.
- Check the chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is safely cooked.
- Feel free to swap mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or rice to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
