Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken 🍍🍗✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious pineapple chicken recipe that combines tangy fruitiness with savory flavors, then this tropical chicken dish is perfect for you. The harmony of sweet brown sugar, juicy pineapple, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting weeknight meal, this sweet and savory brown sugar pineapple chicken will never disappoint.
2. Ingredients for the Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Pineapple Fried Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance flavor. For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and a little ginger for about 15 minutes.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar and soy sauce until well combined. Add pineapple chunks and simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Combining and Final Touches
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the chicken is coated with the sweet and savory sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir into the skillet, cooking until thickened.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Pineapple Chicken
To keep your sweet and savory brown sugar pineapple chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring the chicken remains tender and the sauce retains its flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in portions, which can be reheated when needed.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Tropical Chicken Dish
This pineapple fried chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or jasmine rice, absorbing those delightful flavors. For a healthier option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Looking for more exciting recipes? Check out our juicy chicken breast recipes or try a comforting orzo dinner with fresh herbs and vegetables.
6. Tips to Perfect Your Pineapple Chicken Recipe
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, but canned pineapple works well if fresh isn’t available.
- If you want a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
- To make the dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or pork are excellent alternatives that also pair beautifully with the sweet and savory sauce.
How long does it take to prepare this pineapple chicken dish?
Preparation and cooking generally take around 30-35 minutes, making it an ideal quick weeknight meal.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Make a larger batch and store portions in airtight containers for easy reheating during busy weekdays.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
To make this tropical chicken dish effortlessly, consider investing in the right kitchen tools:
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — Perfect for preparing marinades and sauces with ease.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — For a crispy variation of your fried chicken.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Simplifies chopping pineapple, garlic, and ginger.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Perfect for keeping your drinks cold while enjoying this tropical delight.
9. Conclusion
This pineapple chicken recipe masterfully blends sweetness and savory flavors in a delightful tropical chicken dish. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your family’s craving for something new and exciting, it’s simple enough to prepare on busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. Give this juicy chicken breast recipe a try or explore other delicious pasta dishes. Happy cooking!
Print
Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
A quick and tasty brown sugar pineapple chicken recipe featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory glaze, topped with roasted pineapple chunks, and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- While chicken cooks, prepare the sauce by combining brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet with chicken and add pineapple chunks.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes until sauce thickens and pineapple is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg