Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
A delightful dish featuring tender chicken glazed in a sweet brown sugar and pineapple sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs are more flavorful, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks Fresh pineapple is recommended but canned can be used.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Adjust the sweetness based on preference.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Low-sodium soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Used for cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- green onions Chopped for garnishing.
- sesame seeds For garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
Making the Glaze
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until well combined.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Adding Pineapple
- In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
Combining
- Pour the brown sugar glaze over the seared chicken and pineapple, letting it bubble for another 3-5 minutes to ensure the chicken is well coated.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with fluffy rice or your favorite side dish.
Notes
Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. Can be frozen for 3 months.