IRRESISTIBLE BROWN SUGAR PINEAPPLE CHICKEN

Golden, glistening chicken, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and rich brown sugar – that’s exactly what you’re about to create! Imagine tender chicken pieces glazed to perfection, a delightful tropical escape on your plate. Get ready to experience the easiest and most flavorful Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken you’ve ever tasted; I promise you’ll be making this again and again!

The Star Players: Your Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

For the Brown Sugar Pineapple Sauce:

• Pineapple: 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks, undrained
• Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
• Ketchup: 2 tablespoons
• Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
• Water: 2 tablespoons

Optional Garnishes:

• Green Onions: Sliced, for garnish
• Sesame Seeds: For garnish

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice sear.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy – proper seasoning makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (The Browning Secret!)

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or canola oil works great).
2. Once the oil is shimmering hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. If necessary, work in batches.
3. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes total. Set aside.

Step 3: Whip Up the Brown Sugar Pineapple Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the undrained pineapple chunks (yes, the juice too!), brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce.

Step 4: The Grand Finale: Simmering to Perfection

1. Pour the brown sugar pineapple sauce into the same skillet you used to cook the chicken. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and stir constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the luscious sauce.
4. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve the Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken hot over rice (white or brown), quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Success

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is so easy, but here are a few extra tips to guarantee a home run every time:

• Chicken Choice: While I prefer chicken breasts, chicken thighs work just as well and are often more budget-friendly. They also tend to stay a bit more moist.
• Pineapple Power: Using canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup!) is my go-to for convenience, but feel free to use fresh pineapple if you have it. Just make sure it’s ripe and sweet.
• Spice It Up (or Not!): The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but you can easily omit them if you prefer a milder flavor. A dash of sriracha also works wonders!
• Thickening Woes: If your sauce isn’t thickening as much as you’d like, you can add a bit more cornstarch slurry. Just remember to whisk it with cold water first to avoid clumps.
• Meal Prep Magic: This chicken is fantastic for meal prepping! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Summers Homemade Meals are all about quick and easy dinners, and this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken fits the bill perfectly. It’s a guaranteed family pleaser that you can whip up any night of the week.
• Looking for another easy chicken bake? Try this Hawaiian Chicken Bake.

Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Wings: Transform this recipe into a crowd-pleasing appetizer by using chicken wings instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. These Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Wings would be perfect for parties!
• Veggies Galore: Add your favorite veggies to the skillet along with the chicken. Bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and carrots all work well.
• Coconutty Goodness: Stir in a tablespoon or two of coconut milk to the sauce for a richer, more tropical flavor.
• Grilled Goodness: Grill the chicken instead of searing it in a skillet for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions: More Than Just Rice!

While rice is a classic pairing for this dish, don’t be afraid to get creative with your sides. Here are a few other options to consider:

• Quinoa: A healthy and protein-packed alternative to rice.
• Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb option.
• Noodles: Lo mein or egg noodles would be delicious tossed with the chicken and sauce.
• Salad: A fresh and vibrant salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or sweet potatoes.

Why I Love This Recipe: My Personal Story

You know, I’ve always been a huge fan of quick and easy dinners, especially those that deliver big on flavor. This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is one of those recipes that I can always count on to satisfy my cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to use up leftover pineapple, and it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. I remember the first time I made this, my kids devoured it! They loved the sweet and tangy sauce, and I loved how easy it was to make. It’s become a staple in our house, and I’m so excited to share it with you. This recipe reminds me of a similar dish, Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken, because both are sweet and tangy with pineapple and are easy to make. If you’re looking for something you can set and forget, that slow cooker recipe is a great option. Or, for another quick and easy meal, try these Sticky Chicken Bowls! They’re another favorite in my house. Also, be sure to check out this Pineapple Bbq Chicken and Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Bake, both great options for Pinapple Recipes Dinner Chicken!

Storing and Reheating: Making the Most of Your Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few minutes, or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Chicken Recipe

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a flavor adventure waiting to happen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a taste of the tropics. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!