Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. This dish combines tender chicken with a caramelized brown sugar and pineapple sauce, creating a unique meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
This recipe shines with its simplicity and vibrant flavor profile. The sweetness from the brown sugar and pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory notes of soy sauce and ginger.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and cornstarch. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Incorporate the canned pineapple chunks (including the juice) into the sauce. Stir frequently, allowing the mixture to come to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over it to coat. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken for a burst of freshness, if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!You can easily modify the recipe to fit your preferences, and using accessible ingredients means you can whip this up any night of the week. Additionally, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs (or substitute with chicken drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce (tamari is a gluten-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (or fresh grated)
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (whisk well with other liquids)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or fresh garlic)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions (optional)
- 1 can Canned Pineapple Chunks (or fresh pineapple and juice)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. This simple step sets the flavor foundation.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and cornstarch. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Add Pineapple: Incorporate the canned pineapple chunks (including the juice) into the sauce. Stir frequently, allowing the mixture to come to a simmer. The heat will activate the cornstarch, thickening the sauce.
Return Chicken: Place the chicken back into the skillet. Spoon some sauce over the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finish and Garnish: If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken for a burst of freshness. Serve hot.
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Serve your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside fresh steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. The sticky sauce pairs perfectly with grains, and you can scoop any leftover sauce over your sidings for added flavor. This dish also works well in wraps or as a filling for tacos, making leftovers versatile and exciting.
How to Store Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until thoroughly warmed or heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent drying out.
Tips to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Perfect
- Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are great for a quick cook, while thighs provide more moisture. Drumsticks can add a delightful touch as well.
- Watch Sauce Thickness: Keep an eye on the sauce as it thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a small amount of water or broth to thin it out.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar in the sauce according to your taste preferences.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a touch of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the final dish for vibrant flavor.
- Coconut Twist: For a tropical twist, add some coconut milk to the sauce for creaminess.
Pro Tips for Success
- Marinate Time: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking. This adds depth to the flavors.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: If possible, use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a brighter taste and texture.
- Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep; simply store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it throughout the week.
FAQs About Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses as a substitute. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can work to maintain the sweet profile of the dish.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and can enhance the overall tenderness of the dish. You can also choose drumsticks for a different texture.
How can I adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?
To double the recipe, simply multiply the ingredients by two. Make sure to use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume and ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a quick, delightful recipe that elevates your weeknight dinners with a tropical flair. Its unique sweetness and savory undertones create a dish the whole family will treasure. Simple to prepare and easy on the wallet, it’s the ideal recipe for anyone seeking a sweet escape right from their kitchen. Enjoy the island vibes and savor every bite!