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Sweet and Smoky Pineapple Barbecue Chicken Thighs Recipe - Featured Image

Sweet and Smoky Pineapple Barbecue Chicken Thighs Recipe

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Learn how to make delicious Pineapple Barbecue Chicken Thighs. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned, unsweetened preferred)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or your favorite store-bought brand)
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Substitution tip: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade. For a lighter option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well but will cook faster—adjust accordingly.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help crisp up the chicken skin beautifully, just like Mama Lou’s always did.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper. Dry skin is key to getting that golden crisp.
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and sear them on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. This step adds depth of flavor—Mama Lou swore by it!
  5. Flip the chicken thighs over and pour the pineapple barbecue sauce evenly over the top.
  6. Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling and caramelized.
  7. Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the sauce from the pan to keep it moist and flavorful. I remember Ouma and I taking turns with the basting brush, giggling as the sticky sauce dripped everywhere.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite tender.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International