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rown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

rown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

5.1 from 26 reviews

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with a tropical twist. Marinated in a mixture of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce, the chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with a deliciously tangy glaze. Perfect for grilling or searing, it’s an easy-to-make dish that works wonderfully for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

  • ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tbsp oil for searing or grilling
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  3. Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet if using one.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely caramelized and cooked through.
  5. Rest the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Slice the chicken if desired and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. This dish pairs well with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili.
  • Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, but either works well.
  • Use fresh pineapple juice when possible for the best flavor; canned pineapple juice works as a convenient alternative.
  • Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but marinating at least 1 hour is sufficient.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar chicken, pineapple chicken, grilled chicken recipe, sweet and savory chicken, tropical chicken marinade