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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

4.9 from 15 reviews

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy combination of brown sugar, pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger. Easy to prepare and bursting with tropical flavors, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned)
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Garnish

  • Chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a thick, flavorful marinade.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
  3. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
  4. Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken breasts from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  5. Prepare the sauce: While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened and safe to consume.
  6. Combine and serve: Once chicken is cooked, pour the thickened sauce over the chicken breasts. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately, pairing well with steamed rice or vegetables.

Notes

  • Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor, but canned pineapple works well too.
  • Adjust brown sugar quantity based on your preferred sweetness level.
  • Be sure to cook the reserved marinade thoroughly before serving as it has been in contact with raw chicken.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, quinoa, or sautéed greens.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar pineapple chicken, sweet and tangy chicken, easy chicken recipe, pineapple chicken skillet, tropical chicken dish