Jump to Recipe Print RecipeSkimming through my recipe book one day, I stumbled upon a culinary gem that instantly transported me to sun-soaked beaches: Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. This delightful dish features tender chicken simmered in a sticky glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, and sweet pineapple juice—a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors. Best of all, it’s a quick, one-dish meal that easily fits into busy weeknights, allowing my family to savor tropical bliss without the fuss of a lengthy prep. As you bring this vibrant slice of island sunshine to your table, you’ll delight in a comforting meal that promises satisfied smiles all around. Ready to unlock the secret to this kitchen favorite? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Chicken Recipe a Must-Try? Quick and Easy: In just under an hour, you can whip up this delightful meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Tropical Flavor Explosion: The combination of brown sugar and pineapple creates a irresistibly sweet and tangy glaze that will transport you to a tropical paradise. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, making this dish adaptable to various dietary preferences. Family-Friendly Appeal: With its delicious flavors and easy preparation, everyone at the dinner table will be asking for seconds. Perfect Pairing Options: Serve it over rice or noodles, and consider adding some grilled veggies on the side for a colorful and nutritious meal. Dive into this flavor-packed adventure, and if you love it, you might also enjoy our Butter Chicken Comfort for another crowd-pleaser! Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts/Thighs – Provides a tender protein base; tofu is a great vegetarian substitute. For the Glaze • Pineapple Chunks (canned with juice) – Adds fruity sweetness, but fresh pineapple works wonders too! • Brown Sugar – Sweetens and creates the deliciously sticky glaze; light or dark both work well. • Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds umami and balances sweetness; for gluten-free, use tamari. • Rice Vinegar – Offers acidity to contrast the sweet glaze; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative. • Ground Ginger – Infuses warm, aromatic spice; using fresh ginger enhances the flavor profile. • Cornstarch – Thickens the glaze beautifully; omit for a thinner sauce if preferred. For Cooking • Olive Oil – Essential for browning the chicken; replace with any neutral oil if needed. • Garlic Powder – Adds a lovely aromatic depth; feel free to use minced fresh garlic for freshness. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preference. • Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Introduces a hint of warmth; omit if you prefer a milder dish. For Garnishing • Chopped Green Onions (optional garnish) – Brings a fresh crunch and color to the dish! Bring home the tantalizing flavors of Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken and create a delightful family meal in no time! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your ingredients. Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil to prevent sticking. This step sets the stage for your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken to bake perfectly, ensuring a tender and flavorful result. Step 2: Season the Chicken In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken breasts or thighs with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the chicken until it is evenly coated with the seasonings, which will enhance the flavor of your dish. This simple seasoning step is essential to start building the delicious taste for your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. Step 3: Brown the Chicken Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces and brown them for about 4 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor and will create a beautiful crust that contrasts nicely with the glaze you’ll make later. Step 4: Make the Glaze In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and all the sugar is dissolved. The glaze will be thick but glossy, ready to coat the chicken and pineapple, infusing your dish with a vibrant sweet and tangy flavor. Step 5: Combine and Bake Transfer the browned chicken into the greased baking dish, then add the pineapple chunks along with their juice. Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken and pineapple, stirring gently to coat. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, which will help trap steam and moisture, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. Step 6: Caramelize Remove the baking dish from the oven and take off the foil, allowing the chicken to crisp up. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. During this time, the glaze will thicken and become beautifully glossy, creating that irresistible sticky finish that defines your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. Step 7: Serve Once done, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to settle. Just before serving, garnish your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve it over steaming rice or noodles, letting every bite soak up that tropical, sweet, and savory glaze. Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Variations Customize your meal with these simple twists and substitutions that will keep every bite exciting and delightful! Tofu or Shrimp: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp to explore different proteins. Both options soak up the sweet glaze beautifully, making every forkful burst with flavor. Fresh Pineapple Pleasure: Use fresh pineapple chunks for an extra juicy and vibrant twist. Fresh fruit enhances the tropical vibe, bringing a delightful brightness to your dish. Sweet Heat: Add in a teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. The heat beautifully balances the sweetness of the dish, creating a dynamic flavor contrast. Coconut Rice or Quinoa: Serve this chicken over coconut rice or fluffy quinoa for a nutty flavor and an added texture twist. It creates a perfect base that complements the glaze. Vegetable Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious addition. This not only enhances the dish visually but also adds a fresh crunch that elevates each bite. Zesty Citrus Glaze: Incorporate a splash of orange or lime juice to the glaze for a citrusy zing. This twist brightens the flavors and offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. Asian-Style Noodles: Swap traditional rice for soba or udon noodles for a delightful twist. These noodles soak up the glaze wonderfully and turn your meal into a savory noodle dish. If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider our easy-to-make Bbq Chicken Mac or flavor-packed Parmesan Chicken Transforms recipes for delightful family meal ideas that everyone will cherish! Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Perfect Browning: Ensure the chicken is thoroughly browned before baking. This foundational step adds depth of flavor that significantly enhances your dish. Thickening Sauce: Don’t worry if the sauce appears thin at first; it will thicken beautifully as it cools after baking. Trust the process! Freezing Friendly: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers to maintain texture upon reheating. Spice It Up: Consider adding red pepper flakes for a warm kick. They balance the sweetness perfectly, making each bite even more delightful! Family Serving Size: Adjust the recipe for larger gatherings by simply doubling the ingredients. This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is always a hit at family functions! How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, ensuring it remains juicy. Meal Prep: Consider doubling the recipe for meal prep. Enjoy flavorful leftovers throughout the week that deepen in flavor as they sit! What to Serve with Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken? Enhance your vibrant meal with delightful side dishes that complement the tropical flavors and textures of this delicious chicken! Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that soaks up the sweet and tangy glaze, each bite feels like a mini vacation. Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, balancing the meal beautifully. Grilled Asparagus: Charred, slightly smoky asparagus brings a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the chicken. Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this side adds a creamy texture, enhancing the dish’s tropical essence and making every mouthful divine. Garlic Noodles: Tender noodles tossed in garlic and herbs elevate the dish while providing a savory, satisfying layer to each bite of chicken. Roasted Pineapple: Sweet, caramelized pineapple slices echo the glaze’s flavors while introducing a lovely texture for a fun twist. Chilled Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh, juicy fruits invigorates your taste buds and adds brightness, making it a perfect palate cleanser. Mango Smoothie: This luscious drink brings forth tropical vibes, nourishing your family while keeping the dinner light and refreshing. These pairing options elevate your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken experience, ensuring a satisfying and memorable family meal! Make Ahead Options These Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken meal prep options are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix and glaze up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those delightful flavors to penetrate the meat—just refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop the pineapple and prepare the glaze (mixing brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ginger, and cornstarch) a day ahead, keeping it refrigerated as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in a baking dish and bake as directed, adjusting the cooking time if your chicken is still cold from the fridge. This way, you’ll achieve that same irresistible flavor with minimal effort! Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe pineapple for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for pineapples that are golden yellow all around and have a sweet aroma at the base. The leaves should be green and not browning. A little give when you press the fruit indicates ripeness. Avoid any pineapple with dark spots or a fermented smell. How should I store leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken? To keep your dish fresh, store your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it to prevent condensation and keep that heavenly flavor intact! Can I freeze Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken? Very! To freeze, allow your dish to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to savor it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. What should I do if the glaze is too thin? If you find your glaze a bit thin when baking, don’t fret! Remember, it will thicken as it cools. However, if you want to thicken it quickly, you can return it to the stovetop after baking and cook over medium heat, whisking in a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water until it reaches your desired consistency. Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a vegetarian alternative, swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp. Always check individual ingredients for potential allergens, especially if you’re considering adding any extras like red pepper flakes. What’s the best way to reheat frozen leftovers? When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken, simply move it to the fridge the night before to thaw. For reheating, place it in a saucepan over low heat, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s hot all the way through. This way, it stays juicy and delicious! Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken for Family Night Delight Enjoy the delightful flavors of Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken, a quick and tasty dish perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: American, TropicalCalories: 380 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Chicken Breasts/Thighs Tofu is a great vegetarian substituteFor the Glaze1 cup Pineapple Chunks (canned with juice) Fresh pineapple works wonders too1/2 cup Brown Sugar Light or dark both work well1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Use tamari for gluten-free option2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Using fresh ginger enhances the flavor1 tablespoon Cornstarch Omit for a thinner sauce if preferredFor Cooking1 tablespoon Olive Oil Replace with any neutral oil if needed1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use minced fresh garlic for freshnessto taste Saltto taste Pepper1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional, omit for a milder dishFor Garnishing2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions Optional garnish for a fresh touch Equipment OvenSkilletBaking dishMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.Season chicken in a bowl with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.Brown the chicken in olive oil for about 4 minutes, flipping until golden.Make the glaze by whisking together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ginger, and cornstarch.Combine browned chicken with pineapple in the baking dish, pour the glaze over it, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes.Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with green onions, and serve over rice or noodles. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesThis dish can be adjusted for larger gatherings by doubling the ingredients. It's family-friendly and has great meal prep potential. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
