Irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Discover the magic of our Irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken, a flavor-packed dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family asking for seconds. Get ready for a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple undrained
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Optional garnishes

chopped fresh cilantro
toasted sesame seeds
sliced green onions

Equipment

Medium Bowl
Small Bowl
Large Skillet or Dutch Oven

Method

In a medium bowl, whisk together the crushed pineapple (including the juice), brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Set aside.
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves garlic
In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This slurry will be used to thicken our delicious sauce later.
1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thigh pieces and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. You don't need to cook them through at this stage.
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil, 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Pour the prepared pineapple sauce mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is coated. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Once simmering, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet while stirring continuously. Continue to cook and stir for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. A rich, glossy sauce is what we're aiming for!
1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water
After the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Spoon the Irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken over fluffy steamed rice. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, and sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
chopped fresh cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Notes

This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.