Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Name: Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz); 0.5 cup brown sugar; 0.33 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: October 7, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan.
Tropical Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and pineapple creates a unique, sweet tang that is loved by all.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels or add your favorite vegetables for more variety.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this comforting meal, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process. Having everything ready makes following the steps easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for browning chicken evenly, giving it a delicious crust.
9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size to hold all ingredients while allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for whisking your glaze without spilling.
Whisk: Ensures smooth blending of ingredients, preventing lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (Cut into medium chunks)

For the Pineapple Glaze

1 can pineapple chunks (20 oz can, with juice (do not drain))
0.5 cup brown sugar (Light or dark, depending on how deep you want the flavor)
0.33 cup soy sauce (Low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar (Balances the sweetness)
1 teaspoon ground ginger (Or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (Helps thicken the sauce)

For Cooking

2 tablespoons olive oil (For browning chicken)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (Adds aromatic base)
Salt and pepper (To taste)

Optional Ingredients

Red pepper flakes (Optional – If you like it with a touch of heat)
Chopped green onions (Optional garnish)

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance their flavor before cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken in a Skillet

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and brown them for about 4 minutes total until they are golden but not fully cooked through.

Step 4: Whisk the Pineapple Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, the pineapple juice from the can, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth to create a flavorful glaze.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Transfer the browned chicken into your prepared baking dish. Pour pineapple chunks along with their juice over it and drizzle the glaze on top. Stir gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce thickens nicely.

Step 7: Caramelize Uncovered

After baking covered, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes to achieve that beautiful caramelization on top.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Let your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken rest for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions or reserved pineapple chunks before serving.

Enjoy this delicious meal that brings warmth and joy to your dining table!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your dining experience, here are some serving suggestions.

With Steamed Rice

Steamed white or brown rice provides a neutral base to soak up the sweet and tangy sauce, making each bite satisfying.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve the chicken and its sauce over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and light meal. Add some avocado slices for creaminess.

In Tacos

Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in warm corn tortillas with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

Pair the chicken with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a colorful plate that balances flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Perfecting your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken not only enhances its flavor but also ensures it turns out perfectly every time. Here are some tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and high-quality soy sauce will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Browning the chicken in batches helps achieve that golden color without steaming them.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference; you can even add honey for extra sweetness.
Marinate for Flavor: For an even richer taste, marinate the chicken in the glaze for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Check Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for maximum safety and tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Pairing your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.

Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk adds a tropical touch that pairs wonderfully with pineapple flavors.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a nutritious and zesty contrast.
Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli provides a crunchy texture alongside the tender chicken.
Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity that balances well with the rich sauce of the chicken.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots gives a nice crunch and creamy finish to each bite.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can be used to mop up any leftover sauce on your plate, making it an irresistible addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken.

Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your meat before cooking for the best taste.
Not using the right pan: Using an incorrect size or type of pan can affect cooking times and results. Opt for a large skillet and a suitable baking dish for even heat distribution.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
Ignoring sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken properly. Make sure to include cornstarch and allow it to thicken in the oven.
Forgetting to rest the chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, leading to dryness. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers, covering loosely, in short intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef according to your preference.

What can I serve with Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe includes red pepper flakes as an optional ingredient. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the glaze beforehand. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegetarian version of Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken?

You can create a vegetarian variant by substituting chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensuring all other ingredients are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers many customization options like adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card