Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 -
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned in juice
03 -
1/2 cup brown sugar
04 -
1/4 cup soy sauce
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
07 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
08 -
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, optional
09 -
2 tablespoons lime juice
10 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Finish & Garnish
11 -
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and olive oil. Whisk until well incorporated.
02 -
Place chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
03 -
Preheat the grill to medium-high. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 6–8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade. Grill pineapple chunks alongside the chicken until lightly caramelized.
04 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange chicken in a baking dish, pour marinade and pineapple chunks over the top. Bake in the center rack for 30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
05 -
Place chicken and pineapple chunks in a slow cooker. Pour marinade over and cover. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
06 -
Transfer cooked chicken to plates. Spoon pineapple sauce over and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice or grilled vegetables as desired.
# Notes:
01 -
Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances depth of flavor and tenderness. For optimal results, marinate up to two hours under refrigeration.
02 -
Adapt the cooking method to your preference: grilling creates subtle smokiness, baking offers a hands-off approach, and slow cooking makes the chicken exceptionally tender.
03 -
Adjust the balance of sweet and tangy flavors by varying the amounts of lime juice or soy sauce. Chili flakes or a dash of sriracha can provide additional heat.