Looking for big flavor with minimal effort? The Quick Oven-Baked Pineapple Jerk Chicken delivers a bold Caribbean taste in under 90 minutes. Skin-on chicken bakes to juicy perfection with fiery jerk seasoning and sweet pineapple, and a pineapple-infused marinade doubles as an easy dipping sauce. It’s vibrant, effortless, and perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or island-style comfort food. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredient Guide
- Jerk Seasoning: The base of Caribbean flavor—use your favorite blend for bold spice.
- Black Pepper: Enhances heat and seasoning depth.
- Dark Soy Sauce: Adds salty umami to the marinade.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Offers authentic island heat. Adjust to taste.
- Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth to the mix.
- Pineapple (canned): Adds sweet tang and tenderizes the chicken.
- Scallions: Layer in fresh flavor and color.
- Thyme: Provides earthy sweetness typical in Caribbean dishes.
- Brown Sugar: Balances spiciness with mellow caramel notes.
- Orange Juice: Brings citrus acidity to brighten the dish.
- Olive Oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
- Whole Chicken Pieces: Skin-on cuts stay moist and absorb flavors beautifully.
Shopping Made Easy
- Use store-bought jerk seasoning for convenience; no need to blend spices.
- Look for chunky canned pineapple in juice, not syrup, for natural sweetness.
- Choose skin-on chicken legs, thighs, or a whole cut-up chicken for best flavor.
Cooking Notes from the Kitchen
- Make marinade in advance, bleed flavors overnight, or skip to save time.
- Leave the skin on, but trim excess fat; it stays juicy and crisp during baking.
- Roast at 410 °F (210 °C) uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes; line pan with foil for easy cleanup.
- Broil if needed to deepen color—just a minute or two under the broiler will do.
Can I make a dipping sauce from the marinade?
Yes! Save half the marinade, simmer until thick, then serve as a sweet-spicy dip.
How do I get the skin extra crispy?
After roasting, broil for 1–2 minutes per side. Watch closely to avoid burning.
What if I’m using large chicken pieces?
Cooking time may vary. Check with a thermometer and allow extra time if needed.
Oven-Baked Pineapple Jerk Chicken
Description
A fast and flavorful oven-baked Caribbean-style chicken infused with pineapple and bold jerk seasoning.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Mix all ingredients except chicken in a large bowl, bruising thyme to release oils.
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Marinate chicken in mixture for at least 2 hours, or proceed immediately.
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Preheat oven to 410 °F (210 °C). Line a pan with foil.
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Arrange chicken pieces skin side up; roast uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes.
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Broil briefly to crisp skin if needed, watching carefully.
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Let rest a few minutes, then serve.
