Imagine a culinary journey that transports you directly to the vibrant islands of Bali with just one bite - our Baked Spicy Pineapple Balinese Chicken is that magical ticket! This isn't just another chicken recipe; it's a flavor explosion that combines sweet, spicy, and savory elements in a single, mouthwatering dish that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Perfect for those who crave international flavors and want to bring a touch of exotic cuisine right into their home kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Balinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and chili paste. Whisk together to create a marinade.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and browning.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, then thoroughly coat each piece in the prepared marinade, ensuring even coverage.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
- Scatter fresh pineapple chunks around and between the chicken thighs.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes to allow chicken to cook through and absorb flavors.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to caramelize the pineapple and achieve a golden-brown chicken skin.
- Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions if desired, and serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before marinating to ensure the best possible seasoning absorption and crispy skin.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks for maximum flavor - the natural enzymes help tenderize the chicken while adding a bright, tropical sweetness.
- Don't skip the foil-covered baking for the first 30 minutes, as this helps lock in moisture and develop deep, rich flavors.
- For extra caramelization, consider broiling the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to achieve a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to redistribute juices, which guarantees a more tender and succulent meal.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh cilantro, green onions, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to elevate the dish's presentation and flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 346kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
