Pineapple Glazed Baked Chicken Tenderloin
📝 Introduction:
This flavorful dish features tender, juicy chicken tenderloins glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce. It’s a simple, yet elegant meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
⏱️ Time & Yield:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4–6 chicken tenderloins (about 1 lb)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Pineapple Glaze:
1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned pineapple, drained)
½ cup pineapple juice
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken tenderloins dry and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken tenderloins for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Make the Pineapple Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, pineapple chunks, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, and ginger.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 5–6 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for another 2 minutes until the glaze thickens.
4. Bake:
Pour some of the pineapple glaze over the chicken, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
Bake the chicken for 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Slice:
Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.
Slice the tenderloins into medallions if desired.
6. Serve:
Spoon more pineapple glaze over the sliced chicken and garnish with extra pineapple chunks and fresh cilantro or parsley.
💡 Tips:
No searing? You can skip the searing step and bake the chicken directly with the glaze.
Glaze variations: Add a little chili powder or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Meal prep: This dish can be made in advance and reheated with extra glaze.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead?
A: Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a little longer to cook through.
Q: Can I use frozen pineapple?
A: Yes, frozen pineapple works well in the glaze. Just thaw it before using.
🍽️ Nutrition (per serving – approx.):
Calories: 220
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 6g
Sugar: 15g