Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal. This recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a sweet, savory, and satisfying experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 15

Preparation Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Hawaiian-inspired

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces If using chicken breasts, ensure they are not too thick, or consider slicing them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking.
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple undrained
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for thickening sauce
2 tablespoons water if using cornstarch
1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional toppings

chopped fresh parsley
toasted sesame seeds
sliced green onions

Equipment

Medium Bowl
Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
Small Bowl

Method

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you are using chicken breasts, ensure they are not too thick, or consider slicing them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking.
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, salt and freshly ground black pepper
In a medium bowl, whisk together the undrained crushed pineapple, packed brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned. It's okay if the chicken is not cooked through at this stage; it will finish cooking in the sauce. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking oil, 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
Pour the prepared pineapple sauce mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves garlic
If you prefer a thicker sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth, creating a cornstarch slurry. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken hot, spooning generous amounts of the flavorful sauce over the chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, or sliced green onions for added color and flavor. This dish is fantastic served over steamed rice, quinoa, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
chopped fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezes well for up to 2-3 months.