Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is incredibly flavorful and easy to make, with minimal prep required. The combination of pineapple and brown sugar creates a perfect balance of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The chicken stays tender and juicy, while the glaze caramelizes slightly to create a sticky, flavorful coating. You can adjust the spice level by adding chili flakes for a little kick. Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and the brown sugar-soy sauce mixture. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken further.
6. Serve: Garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 5-10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or snap peas to the skillet along with the pineapple for extra flavor and texture.
• Pineapple Rice: Serve the chicken over pineapple-flavored rice by stirring in some pineapple chunks and a bit of the sauce into the rice before serving.
• Spicy Version: Add a sliced jalapeño or increase the chili flakes for a spicier version of this dish.
• Grilled Chicken: Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it for a smoky flavor. After grilling, brush with the pineapple glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Bone-in pieces will take longer to cook, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Simply store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

3. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple works perfectly in this recipe. Use pineapple in juice rather than syrup for the best flavor. Drain the pineapple before using it.

4. Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar in place of brown sugar. Adjust the amounts based on your preferred sweetness level.

5. Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts or thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken tenders, but the cooking time will be shorter. They should only take about 3-4 minutes per side to cook through.

6. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through the cooking process. Then, simmer the sauce in a skillet to thicken it.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Pan-fry the tofu and proceed with the same sauce to get the delicious flavors.

8. How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it for a few extra minutes until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. You can also add a small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water) to help thicken it.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to eat, adding a little water to thin the sauce if necessary.

10. Can I add more heat to this dish?

Absolutely! You can increase the chili flakes, add a sliced jalapeño or habanero, or even drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken after it’s cooked for extra heat.

Conclusion

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that combines sweet, savory, and slightly spicy elements to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. The caramelized pineapple glaze enhances the chicken’s tenderness and flavor, while the lime juice and cilantro provide a refreshing touch. Perfect for busy nights or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try it tonight for a tropical-inspired dinner that’s sure to please!

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