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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken, a delicious and easy dinner, is shown in this featured image.

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

This recipe delivers tender and flavorful Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken by balancing sweet, sour, and savory elements. The key is to marinate wisely, use cornstarch for thickening, opt for canned pineapple, sear the chicken then simmer the sauce, and adjust the taste to your preference.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce low sodium recommended
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Cooked rice, for serving
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Serving plates

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and the reserved 1/4 cup pineapple juice.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Do not marinate longer than 2 hours.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken (reserving the marinade) and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add the Pineapple and Sauce: Add the drained pineapple chunks to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and pineapple. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Serve: Serve the Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Marinate the chicken for a maximum of 2 hours to avoid mushiness. Use cornstarch in both the marinade and the sauce for thickening and protection. Canned pineapple ensures reliable sweetness and acidity. Sear the chicken over medium-high heat to develop flavor, then simmer the sauce gently to avoid burning. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or acidity as needed to suit your preferences.