Golden Pineapple Chicken Delight is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The tropical sweetness of pineapple melds beautifully with savory chicken, creating a dish that's perfect for any season. Whether you're cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
The star of the dish is, of course, the chicken legs. Opt for bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness. The pineapple juice and chunks bring a refreshing sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements. Soy sauce adds depth and umami, while honey enhances the caramelization. A splash of apple cider vinegar brings a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness. Olive oil is used for searing, adding a rich flavor to the chicken. Garlic and ginger provide aromatic warmth, and black pepper adds a hint of spice. Finally, fresh cilantro is the perfect garnish, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor.
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of coconut rice or a simple green salad. For a more tropical flair, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a mango salsa. It's also excellent over a bed of fluffy quinoa.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This is crucial for ensuring even cooking throughout the dish. Next, in a large bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. This will be your marinade, infusing the chicken with all those delightful flavors.
Place the chicken legs into a resealable plastic bag, and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag well, then give it a good shake to make sure each piece of chicken is well coated. Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. If you have time, let it sit overnight for deeper flavor.
When you're ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Don't skip this step; it helps the chicken skin crisp up nicely. Reserve that marinade; we’ll use it later. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken legs, searing them for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, nestling them around the chicken. Pour the reserved marinade over everything, and then carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a lovely glaze.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.
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