introduction

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is sweet, tangy, and simple to make. The sauce mixes brown sugar, pineapple, soy, and lime for a rich taste. For a different smoky option, try the pineapple BBQ baked chicken breast to see another easy pineapple-chicken idea.

why make this recipe

You make this recipe when you want an easy weeknight dinner. It needs few ingredients and cooks fast. The pineapple adds natural sweetness and a bright flavor. Kids and adults like the sweet and salty mix. You can grill, bake, or slow cook it.

how to make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Follow the steps below. Use fresh or canned pineapple in juice. Marinate the chicken if you have time to deepen the flavor.

Ingredients :

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)
2 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions :

Grilling: Preheat the grill and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with marinade. Add pineapple slices to the grill for a smoky flavor.
Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, pour marinade and pineapple chunks over, and bake for 30 minutes.
Slow Cooking: Place chicken and pineapple in a slow cooker, pour marinade over, and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
3️⃣ Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or grilled veggies.

how to serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Serve over steamed rice or quinoa. Add grilled vegetables or a green salad on the side. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for brightness.

how to store Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Cool the chicken to room temperature. Put leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently on low heat or in the oven to keep the sauce from burning.

tips to make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
Let the chicken marinate at least 30 minutes for more flavor.
Use chicken thighs if you want juicier meat.
Watch the grill to avoid burning the sugar in the sauce.
If sauce is too thin, simmer it on the stove to thicken. If too thick, add a little pineapple juice or water.

variation (if any)

Spicy: Add more chili flakes or a dash of sriracha.
Tropical: Add mango or bell peppers with the pineapple.
Low-sugar: Use less brown sugar or a sugar substitute.
Glazed: Brush with honey instead of extra brown sugar for a shiny glaze.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned pineapple juice instead of chunks?
A: Yes. Use the juice for the sauce and drain some chunks if you want less liquid.

Q: Do I need to marinate the chicken?
A: No, but marinating for 30 minutes to a few hours gives better flavor.

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: Yes. Increase cooking time and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q: Is this recipe good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It stores well and tastes good reheated over rice.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.