Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe – Easy Sweet and Savory Dinner
Brown sugar pineapple chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy glaze made from brown sugar and pineapple. Baked until golden and caramelized, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of savory and fruity flavors. It’s quick to prepare, family‑friendly, and ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless preferred)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare chicken: Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Pan-sear: Heat olive oil in skillet. Sear chicken on both sides until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make glaze: In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Add pineapple: Stir in pineapple chunks. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine: Return chicken to pan. Spoon glaze over pieces. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro or green onions. Pair with rice or vegetables.
Notes
- Chicken cuts: Thighs stay juicier; breasts cook faster but can dry out.
- Balance tip: Adjust sweetness with vinegar or extra pineapple juice if needed.
- Make-ahead: Marinate chicken in pineapple juice and brown sugar overnight for deeper flavor.
- Variations: Add chili flakes for spice, ginger for warmth, or coconut milk for creaminess.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for 3 days or freeze for 2 months.