Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your dinner experience with a dish that’s both sweet and savory, the 5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a must-try! This delightful recipe combines the rich, caramelized flavors of brown sugar with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, creating a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements juicy chicken. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to your cooking preferences, whether you choose to grill, bake, or pan-sear. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this chicken dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How to Make 5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Ingredients

½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tbsp oil for searing or grilling
Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl or large resealable bag, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Add chicken and toss to coat. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method
Option A: Grill
Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with extra marinade while grilling, then discard any remaining marinade.

Option B: Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange marinated chicken in a baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, basting once or twice with remaining marinade until the chicken is golden and cooked through.

Option C: Pan-Sear
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until caramelized and fully cooked. Add a little leftover marinade during the last 2 minutes for a quick glaze.

Step 3: Garnish & Serve
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

How to Serve 5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

This dish can be served in a variety of ways. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad will complement the sweetness of the chicken beautifully. Feel free to drizzle some extra pineapple juice or marinade over the top for added flavor at serving.

How to Store 5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave in short intervals until warm. If you want to save it for a longer period, consider freezing the marinated or cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make 5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

For even better flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.
Experiment with the marinade by adding other ingredients like fresh herbs or citrus juice for a unique twist.

Variation

Try substituting chicken with pork or tofu for a different take on this recipe. You can also experiment with different sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup, for a unique flavor profile. If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider scaling up the recipe without compromising the taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind that they may require a slightly shorter cooking time to prevent drying out.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for a long time?
While marinating for at least an hour is recommended for flavor absorption, you can still enjoy the dish if you’re short on time.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Cook it just before serving for the best taste.