Name: Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into medium chunks; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons olive oil, for browning; 1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz) with juice, do not drain; 0.5 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 0.33 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Red pepper flakes, to taste; Chopped green onions

Introduction

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. Tender chicken pieces glazed with a caramelized pineapple sauce make for an easy, impressive dinner. This dish balances richness and brightness, perfect for any weeknight meal.

The image shows several round, golden-brown glazed meatballs covered in a glossy dark reddish-brown sauce with small bits of onions and sprinkled green onion pieces on top. Alongside the meatballs are bright yellow, juicy pineapple chunks. The dish is presented close-up, highlighting the shiny, sticky texture of the sauce and the fresh, colorful ingredients. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into medium chunks

1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz can, with juice, do not drain)

0.5 cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on flavor preference)

0.33 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger)

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)

Chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Season the chicken chunks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly.

Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces for about 4 minutes total, turning to get a golden color on all sides but not cooking them through.

Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice (from the can), rice vinegar, ground ginger, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking dish. Pour the pineapple chunks with juice over the chicken, then drizzle the pineapple glaze on top. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is coated.

Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the sauce has thickened.

Step 7: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and deepen in flavor.

Step 8: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or additional reserved pineapple chunks if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the pineapple glaze or over the finished dish.

Use fresh grated ginger instead of ground for a more vibrant flavor.

Serve over steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.

To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great for this recipe and tend to stay more tender and juicy.

Do I need to drain the pineapple juice?

No, keep the pineapple juice as it adds sweetness and flavor to the glaze and helps create the sauce consistency.

Dinner

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe