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brown sugar pineapple chicken

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken for a Flavorful Weeknight Treat

Enjoy a tropical fusion with this brown sugar pineapple chicken, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts/Thighs Substitute with tofu or tempeh for vegetarian version.
For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Pineapple Chunks Fresh or canned in juice works great.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar White sugar or honey can be used but won't have the same richness.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with a neutral oil like canola if desired.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Chili Flakes (optional) Adjust to your spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Always opt for fresh juice for the best flavor.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped.

Equipment

  • grill
  • baking dish
  • slow cooker
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, and olive oil until well combined. Add the boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
  2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C). For slow cooking, prepare your slow cooker on low.
  3. Before cooking, taste the marinade and adjust as needed. Mix in more lime juice for tanginess or extra soy sauce for depth. Sprinkle in chili flakes for spice if desired.
  4. For grilling, cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, place in a baking dish and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway. For slow cooking, place chicken in the slow cooker with all the marinade and cook for 4-6 hours on low.
  5. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle pan juices over the top and garnish with cilantro. Serve with jasmine rice or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 28gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes but aim for 2 hours. Monitor the heat carefully when grilling to prevent burning the sugars. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

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