Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken with a rich, tangy sauce that features brown sugar and pineapple for a delightful tropical twist.

Ingredients

• 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
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add the brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Stir well to combine.
5. Step 5: Incorporate the pineapple chunks into the sauce and stir.
6. Step 6: Place the chicken back into the skillet, coating it well with the sauce.
7. Step 7: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Step 8: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
9. Step 9: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
10. Step 10: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and drizzle with extra sauce from the skillet.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor; canned works in a pinch but fresh offers a brighter sweetness.
• Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavors.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the skillet for extra color and flavor.
• Substitute soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, richer taste.
• Serve with a fresh pineapple salsa made from pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing garnish.

Storage

Store any leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What can I serve with Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Grilled vegetables or coconut rice also complement the tropical flavors nicely.

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but cooking time will need to be extended to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 120 reviews

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a luscious sauce made with brown sugar, fresh pineapple, soy sauce, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make skillet recipe offers a tropical twist perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

• Author: liam
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American with Tropical influence

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Sauce

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned)
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Garnish

• Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor before cooking.
2. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, preparing for searing.
3. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Stir continuously to combine the ingredients and form a smooth sauce.
5. Add Pineapple: Mix the fresh pineapple chunks into the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Return Chicken: Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece thoroughly with the sauce.
7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Check Doneness: Verify that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure safe consumption.
9. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the cooked chicken to add a fresh burst of flavor and color.
10. Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and drizzle with extra sauce from the skillet for a glossy finish and enhanced taste.

Notes

• Use fresh pineapple for optimal flavor; canned pineapple can be substituted in a pinch.
• Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes beforehand for deeper flavor if time permits.
• Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to spice up the sauce if desired.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Bone-in chicken can be used but requires longer cooking time.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).

Keywords: Brown Sugar Chicken, Pineapple Chicken, Sweet and Savory Chicken, Tropical Chicken Recipe, Skillet Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner