Craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this recipe for Chicken with Pineapple, a delightful fusion of sweet and savory tastes that will transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched Mexican fiesta. This isn't your average chicken dish; the juicy sweetness of the pineapple perfectly complements the savory chicken, creating a harmonious balance that's both refreshing and exciting. Imagine tender chicken infused with the tropical tang of pineapple, all simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce.
The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and zesty spices creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, easily adaptable to your spice preferences and dietary needs. Ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with deliciousness? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own mouthwatering Chicken with Pineapple masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Blender
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 1.5 kg
- Garlic cloves: 5
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Vinegar: a splash
- Butter
- Pineapple slices (in syrup): 3
- Onion: small piece
- Sweet orange juice
- Pineapple syrup
- Mexican oregano
- Thyme: a pinch
- Cumin
- Guajillo chiles: 2 small
- Ancho chile: 1 piece
- Avocado leaves
- Bay leaves
- Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine chicken thighs, garlic, salt, pepper, and vinegar. Mix well, ensuring the mixture is well incorporated.
- Add a splash of vinegar to create a paste.
- Spread the marinade evenly over the chicken thighs, lifting the skin to ensure flavor penetrates.
- Spread room temperature butter over and under the skin of the chicken thighs for added flavor.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, preferably 4, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2. Prepare the Pineapple Sauce
- Boil guajillo and ancho chiles (without seeds) in hot water for a couple of minutes until softened.
- Blend the softened chiles, orange juice, onion, garlic, Mexican oregano, thyme, cumin, salt, pineapple slices, and pineapple syrup until smooth.
- Strain the blended mixture to remove any seeds or skins. Rinse the blender and add back the strained mixture.
Step 3. Bake the Juicy Pineapple Chicken
- In a baking dish, add oil, arrange chicken thighs, and generously pour the sauce over them. Add avocado and bay leaves.
- Distribute pineapple slices between the chicken thighs.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Remove the foil, baste the chicken with the remaining sauce, and bake for another 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4. Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with mashed potatoes.
Read more: Grilled Mexican Octopus Recipe: A Sakora Gastronomy Delight
Tips
- Use chicken thighs with legs for extra flavor.
- If you don't have fresh garlic, use garlic powder. Substitute ground black pepper for whole peppercorns.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2000
- Fat: 100-120g
- Carbs: 100-130g
- Protein: 100-120g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned pineapple works perfectly well. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the recipe to avoid excessive liquid.
2. What can I serve with this juicy pineapple chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or even some simple tortillas for scooping up the delicious sauce.
This Juicy Pineapple Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a vibrant and flavorful experience that's both simple and satisfying. From weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious taste of Mexico in every bite!