If you love the classic sweet and sour flavor but want a healthier, oven-baked version, this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs with Pineapple recipe is perfect for you! Juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a tangy homemade sauce and baked to perfection with caramelized pineapple chunks. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs with Pineapple

In this article, we'll cover the full recipe, expert cooking tips, and frequently asked questions to ensure you get the best results.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Easy to Prepare – Minimal prep and all the magic happens in the oven.
✔️ Healthier Alternative – No deep-frying, just wholesome baked goodness.
✔️ Sweet & Tangy Perfection – A well-balanced sweet and sour flavor.
✔️ Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A family favorite that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless for quicker cooking)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • ⅓ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

  • ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp ginger (grated or ground)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

For the Pineapple & Garnish:

  • 1 ½ cups fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained if canned)

  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks

  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks

  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.

  2. Rub with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, and garlic.

  2. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.

  3. Mix cornstarch with water, then stir into the sauce to thicken. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

  1. Place chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, skin-side up.

  2. Pour half of the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, coating evenly.

  3. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.

  4. Add pineapple chunks and bell peppers around the chicken, then brush with more sauce.

  5. Bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  • Drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

  • Serve with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken

  • Use Fresh Pineapple – It caramelizes better and adds natural sweetness.

  • Broil for Crispy Skin – In the last 3-5 minutes, broil for a golden, crispy finish.

  • Make it Spicier – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.

  • Swap Chicken Thighs – You can use boneless chicken breasts, but reduce the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes! Boneless thighs will cook faster (about 25-30 minutes total).

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Freeze baked chicken with sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F.

5. What sides go best with sweet and sour chicken?

Steamed rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or stir-fried veggies pair perfectly with this dish.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs with Pineapple recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with a healthier, oven-baked twist. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or prepping for a meal with guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and let us know how you liked it!

Would you like more chicken thigh recipes for your blog? Let me know! 

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