Baked Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Chicken thighs with pineapple rings and scallions in cast iron pan.

This baked Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe features chicken thighs marinated overnight in pineapple juice and soy sauce, then baked until the sauce reduces into a glossy glaze. The oven method concentrates the sweet and savory flavors while the thighs remain tender. A simple baked chicken dinner made entirely in one skillet.

Course Main Dishes

Cuisine Hawaiian

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 45

Resting Time 12

Total Time 12 50

Servings servings

Calories 803kcal

Author Diane Gail

Ingredients

1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup pineapple juice
1/2 medium yellow onion sliced
2 large garlic cloves pressed
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
4 chicken thighs bone-in. skin-on
4 pineapple rings
2 large scallions

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Whisk brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice in a bowl until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
Stir in garlic, fresh ginger, crushed red pepper flakes, and sliced onion until evenly combined.
Add chicken thighs and turn to coat on all sides; cover and refrigerate overnight.
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange chicken and onions in a 10-inch cast iron skillet in a single layer; spoon about 1 tbsp marinade over each thigh.
Place one pineapple ring on top of each thigh.
Bake 25 minutes; spoon pan juices over chicken, then bake 20 minutes more or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Sprinkle with chopped scallions and serve.

Notes

Marinate overnight: Allowing the chicken to rest in the marinade overnight ensures deeper flavor penetration from the soy sauce and pineapple juice.
Choose chicken thighs: Thighs remain tender as the sugar in the sauce reduces, while breasts are more likely to dry out during baking.
Limit added marinade: Spoon only a small amount into the skillet to prevent steaming and allow the sauce to thicken properly.
Use a thermometer: Remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
Rest before serving: Let the chicken sit 5 minutes so the juices settle and the sauce finishes thickening.

Nutrition