why make this recipe
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delicious dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. The brown sugar adds a rich sweetness, while the pineapple juice gives it a tropical twist. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find, making it a go-to option for many home cooks.
how to make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark; dark gives deeper molasses notes)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger in a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (reduce if your soy sauce is very salty)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 8 small thighs)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (optional garnish)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced, optional garnish)
Directions:
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Preparation: In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves.
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Cooking: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Serving: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken and serve it with the sauce from the pan on top. Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks and sliced green onions if desired.
how to serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables. The sweet sauce complements the chicken and makes for a hearty meal. You can also enjoy it as a filling for tacos or wraps, adding some crunch with lettuce and other toppings.
how to store Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- If you want a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once it’s cooked, then continue to simmer the sauce for a few more minutes until it reduces and thickens.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the skillet while cooking for added nutrition and color.
variation
You can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, experiment with other fruits, such as mango or peaches, to create different flavor profiles.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to cook them too long, as they can dry out faster than thighs.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge, and cook the chicken right before serving.