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–+ servings
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken for Family Feasts

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken blends sweet brown sugar and tangy pineapple for a family-friendly dinner that's perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Can use dark brown for a deeper flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice Fresh juice preferred, but canned 100% juice works.
  • 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Use regular soy sauce if not watching sodium levels.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can replace with vegetable oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar Try white vinegar or omit.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional to substitute with fresh onion if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Fresh ginger can be grated as an alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust level according to spice preference.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Can use bone-in chicken, adjusting cook time.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil for Searing/Grilling Prevents sticking during cooking.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions Optional, for a pop of color and extra flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Optional, for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Oven
  • skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Resealable bag
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl or resealable bag, whisk together your marinade for the Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. Combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, low-sodium soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes until fully blended.
  2. Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Place the marinated chicken onto the hot grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken in a baking dish, pour any remaining marinade over the top, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
  6. For pan-searing, heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil, then the marinated chicken, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side.
  7. Let your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

For the best flavor, marinate overnight. Always use a separate bowl for basting to avoid cross-contamination. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

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