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Baked Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken

Baked Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken for a Tropical Feast

Delight in the flavors of Baked Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken—a tender, marinated dish smothered in a sweet and spicy pineapple sauce that transports you to the Caribbean.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Jamaican
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs skinless chicken can be used as a leaner option
For the Marinade
  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning substitute with a mix of cayenne, allspice, thyme, and paprika if needed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can be replaced with canola or vegetable oil
  • to taste salt essential for enhancing flavors
  • to taste black pepper essential for enhancing flavors
For the Pineapple Sauce
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple use canned pineapple chunks if unavailable
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice substitute with orange juice for a citrus twist
  • 3 tablespoons honey maple syrup works as a substitute
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier option
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger use ground ginger in a pinch
  • 2 cloves garlic garlic powder can replace it
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice lemon juice could serve as an alternative
For Serving
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro optional garnish

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, blend the jerk seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Generously rub this mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a deeper flavor infusion.
  2. While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced fresh pineapple, pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and lime juice. Stir until it begins to simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs in the greased baking dish with the skin side up. Pour half of the prepared pineapple sauce evenly over the chicken. Bake for 25 minutes.
  5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist during the initial baking phase. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil.
  6. Brush the chicken thighs with the remaining pineapple sauce, then return them to the oven without the foil. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.
  7. Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
  8. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken for an extra layer of flavor. Slice and serve with the remaining pineapple sauce, paired with rice, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensuring proper marination enhances flavor and moisture retention during baking.

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