Description
A delightful blend of sweet and savory, this brown sugar pineapple chicken transforms ordinary weeknights into something special.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon oil for searing or grilling
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 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 grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high, lightly oil the grates, and grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with extra marinade while grilling.
- For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), arrange marinated chicken in a baking dish, and bake for 20–25 minutes, basting with leftover marinade.
- For pan-searing: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until caramelized and fully cooked, adding a little leftover marinade for glaze during the last 2 minutes.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Marinating overnight enhances flavor. Serve with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Baking, Pan-Sealing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken, brown sugar, pineapple, sweet, savory, grilling, baking, easy recipe