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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.2 from 45 reviews

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors with juicy chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a tangy blend of brown sugar, pineapple, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and lime. Perfectly adaptable to grilling, baking, or slow cooking, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s garnished with fresh cilantro and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Marinade

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine pineapple chunks, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, chili flakes (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the brown sugar dissolves and ingredients are fully incorporated.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator to absorb flavors.
  3. Grilling Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. While grilling, baste the chicken frequently with the marinade to keep it moist and flavorful. Grill pineapple slices alongside to add a smoky touch. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Baking Option: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken breasts or thighs in a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade along with pineapple chunks over the chicken. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Slow Cooking Option: Place the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks into a slow cooker. Pour any remaining marinade on top. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  6. Serve: Once cooked by your chosen method, garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Notes

  • You can use fresh or canned pineapple chunks; if canned, use pineapple in juice rather than syrup to avoid extra sweetness.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a mild flavor.
  • Marinating longer enhances flavor and tenderness but even 30 minutes will impart good taste.
  • Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is safely cooked.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: brown sugar pineapple chicken, grilled chicken, baked chicken, slow cooker chicken, sweet and savory chicken, pineapple chicken recipe

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/brown-sugar-pineapple-chicken-recipe/