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brown sugar pineapple chicken Recipe

brown sugar pineapple chicken Recipe

5.1 from 13 reviews

A delicious and tangy Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a sweet and savory blend of brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, complemented by fresh pineapple chunks. Perfectly cooked by grilling, baking, or slow cooking, this dish offers a balance of sweet, spicy, and zesty flavors, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

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

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, olive oil, and chili flakes if using. Mix well then pour the marinade over the chicken breasts or thighs. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Choose your preferred method:
    • Grilling: Preheat the grill. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting frequently with the marinade. Add pineapple slices to the grill to get a smoky flavor and caramelized edges.
    • Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, pour remaining marinade and pineapple chunks on top. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • Slow Cooking: Place chicken and pineapple chunks in a slow cooker. Pour marinade over them. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  3. Serve: Once cooked, garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies to the marinade.
  • Fresh pineapple chunks add a juicy texture, but canned pineapple packed in juice can be used as a convenient substitute.
  • Marinate the chicken longer, up to 4 hours, for deeper flavor penetration.
  • Reserve some marinade before adding raw chicken if you want to baste or serve as a sauce.
  • Always ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when cooked.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar pineapple chicken, sweet and savory chicken, grilled pineapple chicken, baked pineapple chicken, slow cooker chicken recipe, summer chicken dish