Description
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into an exotic culinary experience. This easy one-pan recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a luscious pineapple glaze made from brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger. The tropical essence of the pineapple elevates the dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. With minimal cleanup and quick preparation, this dish is designed to impress without demanding too much time in the kitchen. Serve it with rice or vibrant vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into medium chunks)
- 1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz can, with juice)
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 0.33 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for about 4 minutes until golden.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Transfer browned chicken to the baking dish. Pour pineapple chunks with juice and drizzle the glaze over the top. Stir gently to coat.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes to caramelize the glaze slightly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or extra pineapple chunks if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg