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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Flavorful Dinner Idea

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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 2 green onions, finely sliced - Sesame seeds The main ingredients of this dish build a sweet and savory flavor. The chicken provides a great base for the dish. I love to use fresh pineapple chunks for their juicy sweetness. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel note that pairs well with the soy sauce's saltiness. The additional ingredients enhance the taste profile. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor, while garlic and ginger add depth. Black pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness. For garnishing, I always use finely sliced green onions for freshness. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and a hint of nuttiness. Together, these ingredients create a delicious meal that is both vibrant and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk them together until smooth. This mix will bring a sweet, savory taste to our chicken. Next, place your chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it all gets coated. Seal the bag or cover your dish, and refrigerate it. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours. This step allows the flavors to soak in. Now, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, oil the grates lightly. Remove the chicken from the marinade, but don’t toss that marinade just yet. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you are using a skillet, sear the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. In the last few minutes of cooking, it’s time to add the pineapple. Place the pineapple chunks on the grill or in the skillet. Caramelizing the pineapple adds a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Once the chicken is done, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken, then drizzle it with the reserved marinade. Top it with the caramelized pineapple, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and extra flavor to your dish. Enjoy your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken! For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it sit for up to 4 hours. This longer time allows the chicken to soak up all the sweet and savory notes from the marinade. Be sure to keep it in the fridge while it marinates. This keeps the chicken safe and helps the flavors meld. You can choose between grilling or pan-searing the chicken. Grilling gives a smoky flavor and nice grill marks. If you grill, preheat your grill and oil the grates. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Pan-searing is also great. Heat a skillet with oil and sear until golden brown. Both methods work well, so pick what you enjoy! To check if your chicken is ready, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The juices should run clear, not pink. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside and makes it tender. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance the flavor and tenderness. Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple will give you a better flavor and texture compared to canned. It also helps to tenderize the chicken. Ensure Even Cooking: Flatten the chicken breasts slightly for even cooking. This helps them cook through at the same rate, preventing dryness. Thickening the Marinade: Always simmer the reserved marinade before serving to ensure it is safe to eat and to concentrate the flavors. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for other proteins. Tofu is a great option. It soaks up flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and marinate just like chicken. Shrimp is another tasty choice. They cook quickly and add a nice seafood twist. Grill or sauté shrimp until pink and firm. To boost the flavor, consider adding spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat. If you like it sweet, add a splash of pineapple juice. You can also mix in some paprika for a smoky taste. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, can brighten the dish. Experiment with these to find your favorite combo. Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with tasty sides. Steamed rice absorbs the sauce well. You can also try coconut rice for a tropical feel. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Grilled asparagus or bell peppers pair nicely. If you want a crunch, serve with a fresh salad. To store cooked chicken, let it cool first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. When reheating chicken, avoid drying it out. The best method is using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until hot. Yes, you can freeze Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. Let it cool completely before freezing. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It will last for about three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a sweet and savory dish. It combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh pineapple and a rich brown sugar marinade. The chicken grills to a golden brown, while the pineapple caramelizes, adding a burst of flavor. The sauce is thick and sticky, enhancing every bite. It’s a fun dish that brings tropical vibes to dinner. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Marinate the chicken for up to four hours. This gives the flavors time to soak in. You can also grill or cook the chicken in advance. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. Just reheat gently to maintain its juiciness. To check if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read at least 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut the chicken open. The meat should be white, with no pink inside. This ensures safe eating. If you need a substitute for brown sugar, try using honey or maple syrup. You can also mix granulated sugar with a bit of molasses. This will mimic the flavor of brown sugar. Adjust the amount to taste, as these may change the dish's sweetness. Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to ensure other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the delicious flavors without worry. This blog post covered how to make tasty Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. We discussed ingredients, from chicken and pineapple to flavorful spices. I shared simple steps for marinating, cooking, and serving your dish. You learned tips for the best flavor and cooking techniques. You can switch proteins and find great side dishes too. Remember to store leftovers properly and check for doneness. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Cook with joy and share it with friends and family.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a tasty dinner idea that’s quick and easy? Try Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken! This dish mixes sweet and savory flavors that will excite your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a meal everyone loves. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, I’ll guide you step-by-step. Get ready for a flavorful adventure that will make your dinner special! Let’s dive in!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Sweet and Savory Combination: This recipe beautifully balances the sweetness of brown sugar and pineapple with the savory depth of soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
  2. Quick and Easy Prep:
  3. Healthier Option: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and low-sodium soy sauce makes this dish a healthier choice while still being delicious.
  4. Impressive Presentation: With vibrant colors from the pineapple and garnishes, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it great for entertaining.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

– 1/2 cup brown sugar

– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

Additional Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garnishing Ingredients

– 2 green onions, finely sliced

– Sesame seeds

The main ingredients of this dish build a sweet and savory flavor. The chicken provides a great base for the dish. I love to use fresh pineapple chunks for their juicy sweetness. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel note that pairs well with the soy sauce’s saltiness.

The additional ingredients enhance the taste profile. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor, while garlic and ginger add depth. Black pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness.

For garnishing, I always use finely sliced green onions for freshness. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and a hint of nuttiness. Together, these ingredients create a delicious meal that is both vibrant and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

To start, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk them together until smooth. This mix will bring a sweet, savory taste to our chicken.

Marinating the Chicken

Next, place your chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it all gets coated. Seal the bag or cover your dish, and refrigerate it. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours. This step allows the flavors to soak in.

Cooking the Chicken

Now, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, oil the grates lightly. Remove the chicken from the marinade, but don’t toss that marinade just yet. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you are using a skillet, sear the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through.

Adding Pineapple

In the last few minutes of cooking, it’s time to add the pineapple. Place the pineapple chunks on the grill or in the skillet. Caramelizing the pineapple adds a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Once the chicken is done, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken, then drizzle it with the reserved marinade. Top it with the caramelized pineapple, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and extra flavor to your dish. Enjoy your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken!

Tips & Tricks

Best Marinating Practices

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it sit for up to 4 hours. This longer time allows the chicken to soak up all the sweet and savory notes from the marinade. Be sure to keep it in the fridge while it marinates. This keeps the chicken safe and helps the flavors meld.

Cooking Techniques

You can choose between grilling or pan-searing the chicken. Grilling gives a smoky flavor and nice grill marks. If you grill, preheat your grill and oil the grates. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Pan-searing is also great. Heat a skillet with oil and sear until golden brown. Both methods work well, so pick what you enjoy!

Ensuring Even Cooking

To check if your chicken is ready, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The juices should run clear, not pink. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside and makes it tender.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
  2. Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple will give you a better flavor and texture compared to canned. It also helps to tenderize the chicken.
  3. Ensure Even Cooking: Flatten the chicken breasts slightly for even cooking. This helps them cook through at the same rate, preventing dryness.
  4. Thickening the Marinade: Always simmer the reserved marinade before serving to ensure it is safe to eat and to concentrate the flavors.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can swap chicken for other proteins. Tofu is a great option. It soaks up flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and marinate just like chicken. Shrimp is another tasty choice. They cook quickly and add a nice seafood twist. Grill or sauté shrimp until pink and firm.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor, consider adding spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat. If you like it sweet, add a splash of pineapple juice. You can also mix in some paprika for a smoky taste. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, can brighten the dish. Experiment with these to find your favorite combo.

Serving Alternatives

Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with tasty sides. Steamed rice absorbs the sauce well. You can also try coconut rice for a tropical feel. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Grilled asparagus or bell peppers pair nicely. If you want a crunch, serve with a fresh salad.

Storage Info

Leftover Storage

To store cooked chicken, let it cool first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. This helps maintain its flavor and texture.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating chicken, avoid drying it out. The best method is using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until hot.

Freezing Tips

Yes, you can freeze Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. Let it cool completely before freezing. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It will last for about three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

What is Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken?

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a sweet and savory dish. It combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh pineapple and a rich brown sugar marinade. The chicken grills to a golden brown, while the pineapple caramelizes, adding a burst of flavor. The sauce is thick and sticky, enhancing every bite. It’s a fun dish that brings tropical vibes to dinner.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Marinate the chicken for up to four hours. This gives the flavors time to soak in. You can also grill or cook the chicken in advance. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. Just reheat gently to maintain its juiciness.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

To check if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read at least 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut the chicken open. The meat should be white, with no pink inside. This ensures safe eating.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

If you need a substitute for brown sugar, try using honey or maple syrup. You can also mix granulated sugar with a bit of molasses. This will mimic the flavor of brown sugar. Adjust the amount to taste, as these may change the dish’s sweetness.

Are there any gluten-free options?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to ensure other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the delicious flavors without worry.

This blog post covered how to make tasty Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. We discussed ingredients, from chicken and pineapple to flavorful spices. I shared simple steps for marinating, cooking, and serving your dish. You learned tips for the best flavor and cooking techniques. You can switch proteins and find great side dishes too. Remember to store leftovers properly and check for doneness. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Cook with joy and share it with friends and famil

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 2 green onions, finely sliced - Sesame seeds The main ingredients of this dish build a sweet and savory flavor. The chicken provides a great base for the dish. I love to use fresh pineapple chunks for their juicy sweetness. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel note that pairs well with the soy sauce's saltiness. The additional ingredients enhance the taste profile. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor, while garlic and ginger add depth. Black pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the sweetness. For garnishing, I always use finely sliced green onions for freshness. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and a hint of nuttiness. Together, these ingredients create a delicious meal that is both vibrant and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk them together until smooth. This mix will bring a sweet, savory taste to our chicken. Next, place your chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it all gets coated. Seal the bag or cover your dish, and refrigerate it. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours. This step allows the flavors to soak in. Now, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, oil the grates lightly. Remove the chicken from the marinade, but don’t toss that marinade just yet. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you are using a skillet, sear the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. In the last few minutes of cooking, it’s time to add the pineapple. Place the pineapple chunks on the grill or in the skillet. Caramelizing the pineapple adds a sweet touch that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Once the chicken is done, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken, then drizzle it with the reserved marinade. Top it with the caramelized pineapple, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds color and extra flavor to your dish. Enjoy your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken! For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it sit for up to 4 hours. This longer time allows the chicken to soak up all the sweet and savory notes from the marinade. Be sure to keep it in the fridge while it marinates. This keeps the chicken safe and helps the flavors meld. You can choose between grilling or pan-searing the chicken. Grilling gives a smoky flavor and nice grill marks. If you grill, preheat your grill and oil the grates. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side. Pan-searing is also great. Heat a skillet with oil and sear until golden brown. Both methods work well, so pick what you enjoy! To check if your chicken is ready, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The juices should run clear, not pink. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside and makes it tender. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to enhance the flavor and tenderness. Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple will give you a better flavor and texture compared to canned. It also helps to tenderize the chicken. Ensure Even Cooking: Flatten the chicken breasts slightly for even cooking. This helps them cook through at the same rate, preventing dryness. Thickening the Marinade: Always simmer the reserved marinade before serving to ensure it is safe to eat and to concentrate the flavors. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for other proteins. Tofu is a great option. It soaks up flavors well. Use firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and marinate just like chicken. Shrimp is another tasty choice. They cook quickly and add a nice seafood twist. Grill or sauté shrimp until pink and firm. To boost the flavor, consider adding spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat. If you like it sweet, add a splash of pineapple juice. You can also mix in some paprika for a smoky taste. Fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, can brighten the dish. Experiment with these to find your favorite combo. Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with tasty sides. Steamed rice absorbs the sauce well. You can also try coconut rice for a tropical feel. Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Grilled asparagus or bell peppers pair nicely. If you want a crunch, serve with a fresh salad. To store cooked chicken, let it cool first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. When reheating chicken, avoid drying it out. The best method is using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until hot. Yes, you can freeze Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. Let it cool completely before freezing. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. It will last for about three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a sweet and savory dish. It combines juicy chicken breasts with fresh pineapple and a rich brown sugar marinade. The chicken grills to a golden brown, while the pineapple caramelizes, adding a burst of flavor. The sauce is thick and sticky, enhancing every bite. It’s a fun dish that brings tropical vibes to dinner. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Marinate the chicken for up to four hours. This gives the flavors time to soak in. You can also grill or cook the chicken in advance. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. Just reheat gently to maintain its juiciness. To check if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read at least 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut the chicken open. The meat should be white, with no pink inside. This ensures safe eating. If you need a substitute for brown sugar, try using honey or maple syrup. You can also mix granulated sugar with a bit of molasses. This will mimic the flavor of brown sugar. Adjust the amount to taste, as these may change the dish's sweetness. Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to ensure other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the delicious flavors without worry. This blog post covered how to make tasty Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. We discussed ingredients, from chicken and pineapple to flavorful spices. I shared simple steps for marinating, cooking, and serving your dish. You learned tips for the best flavor and cooking techniques. You can switch proteins and find great side dishes too. Remember to store leftovers properly and check for doneness. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Cook with joy and share it with friends and family.

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

A deliciously sweet and savory chicken dish featuring caramelized pineapple and a flavorful marinade.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 pieces green onions, finely sliced (for garnish)
  • to taste sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper to create a marinade. Whisk until the brown sugar is dissolved.
  • Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
  • Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates.
  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C). If using a skillet, sear the chicken in a bit of oil until golden brown and cooked through.
  • While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • In the last few minutes of cooking, add the pineapple chunks to the grill or skillet to caramelize them slightly.
  • Once the chicken is done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  • Serve the chicken sliced, drizzled with the thickened marinade, and topped with caramelized pineapple, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Notes

Marinate the chicken for longer for enhanced flavor.
Keyword chicken, grilled, pineapple

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