Name: Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487899H12M6S
Total time: PT-487899H12M6S
Cuisine: American
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

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy chicken is glazed in a rich, sweet pineapple sauce that has just the right amount of tang from lime juice and soy sauce. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or slow cooking, this versatile recipe lets you choose your preferred cooking method for a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. Plus, the combination of pineapple and brown sugar makes it a true tropical treat.

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.)

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and olive oil. Pour this marinade over the chicken breasts (or thighs) and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For an even deeper flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge.
Cook the Chicken:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with the marinade as it cooks. You can also add pineapple slices to the grill for an extra smoky flavor.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, pour the marinade and pineapple chunks over it, and bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Slow Cooking: For extra tender chicken, place the chicken and pineapple in a slow cooker, pour the marinade over, and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Serve: Once cooked, garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time ranges from 30 minutes (baking) to 4-5 hours (slow cooking), depending on your preferred method.

Variations

Spicy Version: For an extra kick, add more chili flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the marinade.
Grilled Pineapple: For an added depth of flavor, grill fresh pineapple slices along with the chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months and reheat when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this dish without pineapple chunks?

While pineapple chunks add a lovely sweetness, you can substitute with pineapple slices or even fresh mango for a different tropical flavor.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce the brown sugar to your taste or substitute with honey or a sugar substitute. For a lighter dish, try using skinless chicken breast.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavor and make the chicken even more tender.

Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes! You can cook this dish in a pressure cooker (like an Instant Pot). Use the slow cook setting or pressure cook for about 10 minutes, and the chicken will turn out juicy and flavorful.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to thaw the chicken fully before marinating and cooking.

What should I serve with Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a simple salad or even a side of sweet potato fries.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can use coconut sugar, maple syrup, or honey instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make the chicken spicier, add more chili flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños with the marinade.

Can I cook the chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in an air fryer. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delicious and tropical dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or slow cooking, this dish is sure to please with its perfect balance of sweet pineapple and savory chicken. Try it tonight and bring a little taste of the tropics to your dinner table!