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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

A deliciously sticky and sweet chicken dish infused with caramelized brown sugar, pineapple, and ginger-garlic warmth, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs are juicier, breasts are leaner.
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice) Fresh caramelizes better, but canned is a reliable shortcut.
  • ½ cup brown sugar Use light or dark brown sugar based on preference.
  • ¼ cup soy sauce Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes Optional for spice.
  • 2 tbsp lime juice Adjust based on taste.
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper To taste.
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro for garnish

Method
 

Grilling
  1. Preheat the grill and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with marinade.
  2. Add pineapple slices to the grill for a smoky flavor.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place chicken in a baking dish, pour marinade and pineapple chunks over, and bake for 30 minutes.
Slow Cooking
  1. Place chicken and pineapple in a slow cooker, pour marinade over, and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Serving
  1. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or grilled veggies.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry before marinating to ensure the brown sugar caramelizes. Use thighs for juiciness, and add a bit of reserved pineapple juice to the marinade if using canned pineapple.