Go Back
–+ servings
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Flavor-Packed Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken for Busy Nights

A delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs stay juicier while breasts are leaner.
For the Glaze
  • 1 can pineapple chunks 20 oz with juice; don't drain for maximum flavor!
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar Light or dark; brings sweetness and aids caramelization.
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce Adds depth and balances sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar Adds tanginess; apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
  • 1 tsp ground ginger Or 1 tbsp fresh; adds warm spice notes.
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch Thickens the glaze for a sticky texture.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Perfect for browning the chicken.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Elevates the overall taste profile.
  • salt and pepper Essential for seasoning your chicken.
  • red pepper flakes (optional) A pinch adds heat to balance sweetness.
  • chopped green onions (optional garnish) Sprinkle for a fresh finish.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Large skillet
  • Medium Bowl
  • large bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Toss the 1.5 lbs of chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet, brown the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth and well combined.
  5. Transfer the browned chicken to the baking dish, add pineapple chunks, and pour glaze over the chicken.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  7. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use chicken thighs for juiciness and serve over rice or noodles.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!