Oven Baked 4 Ingredient Hawaiian Chicken

This easy oven-baked Hawaiian chicken is a nostalgic family dinner inspired by the vintage recipes tucked away in old-fashioned recipe boxes. Made with just four simple ingredients, this sweet and savory chicken recipe combines tender chicken thighs, juicy pineapple rings, brown sugar, and ketchup to create a delicious sticky glaze right in the oven.

Perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, and family gatherings, this budget-friendly baked chicken recipe delivers plenty of flavor without complicated preparation. As the chicken bakes, the pineapple juice blends with the brown sugar and ketchup to create a glossy sauce that coats every bite. The pineapple becomes tender and caramelized around the edges, giving this classic Hawaiian-inspired chicken dinner its signature sweet-and-savory taste.

Serve this easy pineapple chicken over fluffy white rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered egg noodles to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce. Add roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple rings, including the juice
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the prepared dish.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, and pineapple juice until the mixture is smooth.
4. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and arrange the pineapple rings on top.
5. Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce is bubbling and slightly caramelized.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the warm pineapple glaze over the chicken and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Benefits of This Easy Chicken Recipe

Only four ingredients: This simple recipe uses everyday ingredients to create a flavorful homemade dinner without a long shopping list.

Quick preparation: The sauce comes together in minutes, leaving the oven to do most of the work.

Budget-friendly family meal: Chicken thighs, canned pineapple, and pantry staples make this an affordable option for feeding the family.

Sweet and savory flavor: The combination of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and ketchup creates a rich, tangy glaze that complements tender baked chicken.

Perfect for meal planning: Assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake when you’re ready to prepare dinner.

Versatile serving options: Pair this pineapple-glazed chicken with rice, noodles, potatoes, or vegetables for an easy and satisfying meal.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Use chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work well. Begin checking their temperature earlier to prevent overcooking.
• Balance the sweetness: Add a little garlic powder or a splash of soy sauce if you prefer a more savory flavor.
• Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of each chicken piece reaches 165°F.
• Make ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
• Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days and reheat thoroughly.