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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 57 reviews

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken pieces cooked in a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze. Combining the flavors of brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes. The chicken is first browned on the stovetop, then baked to ensure it is fully cooked and the sauce thickens into a deliciously caramelized glaze. Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, it can be garnished with fresh green onions for an added burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into medium chunks
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)

Sauce and Glaze

  • 1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz can, with juice, do not drain)
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 0.33 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Optional Garnish

  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Rest: Allow the chicken pieces to rest briefly after cutting, ensuring even seasoning absorption.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken chunks evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a flavorful base.
  4. Brown the Chicken in a Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned chicken pieces for about 4 minutes, turning to achieve a golden crust without cooking through.
  5. Whisk the Pineapple Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice from the can, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and lump-free to create the glaze.
  6. Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking dish. Pour the pineapple chunks with their juice over the chicken and drizzle the pineapple glaze on top. Gently stir to coat all pieces evenly.
  7. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through to 165°F and the sauce to thicken.
  8. Caramelize Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, giving it a rich, sticky texture.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Garnish with chopped green onions and, if desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat before serving.

Notes

  • Using low sodium soy sauce helps control the sodium content and balances flavors.
  • Do not drain the pineapple juice; it is essential for the glaze and moisture.
  • If fresh ginger is available, it adds a brighter flavor compared to ground ginger.
  • To make this dish spicier, add red pepper flakes either when seasoning the chicken or as a garnish.
  • Bone-in chicken can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure doneness.
  • Serving suggestion: pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Keywords: Brown sugar pineapple chicken, baked pineapple chicken, sweet chicken recipe, pineapple glaze chicken, easy chicken dinner

Find it online: https://stirringwithstella.com/brown-sugar-pineapple-chicken-recipe/