Tropical Temptation: Sweet & Savory Pineapple Chicken for Dinner 🍍🍗✨
1. Introduction
Discover a delightful twist on classic chicken dinners with our Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe, also known as Sweet Pineapple Chicken or Savory Pineapple Chicken. This vibrant dish combines juicy pineapple chunks, tender chicken, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors—making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a flavorful family meal, this Tropical Temptation brings a taste of paradise to your plate.
2. Ingredients for the Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat CROCK-POT Family-Size Slow Cooker or a regular pan with sesame oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Making the Pineapple Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer, then add pineapple chunks. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cooking the Chicken in the Saucy Pineapple Mixture
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir into the skillet, cooking until the sauce thickens.
Finishing Touches and Serving
Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal. This Sweet Pineapple Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to revitalize the sauce. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months.
5. Serving Suggestions for Delicious Tropical Temptation
Besides rice or quinoa, try serving this pineapple chicken with Taco Rice Bowls or even as a filling for lettuce wraps. Complement your meal with a chilled beverage like Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker for a refreshing drink pairing.
6. FAQs about Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a brighter flavor. Slice the pineapple and cook it similarly to canned chunks to release its juices and enhance the sauce.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, just ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce. This dish naturally adapts well to gluten-free preferences.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – simplifies slow cooking and keeps your dish warm for serving.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – perfect for adding an extra crispy touch to your chicken, if desired.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – facilitates easy prep of ingredients or making rice.
- Deluxe 33-Piece Silicone Utensil Set – ensures you have the perfect tools for every step of your cooking.
8. Conclusion
Bring a touch of tropical paradise to your dinner table with this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe. Its harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors offers a delightful culinary experience that will satisfy the entire family. Easy to prepare, versatile, and bursting with flavor, this Sweet Pineapple Chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Dive into this Tropical Temptation and enjoy a vibrant, irresistible meal tonight!
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Tropical Temptation: Sweet & Savory Pineapple Chicken for Dinner
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tropical Temptation with our Sweet & Savory Pineapple Chicken for Dinner. Juicy pineapple chunks combined with tender chicken and a perfect sweet-savory glaze create an irresistible meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. A delightful tropical twist that brings paradise to your plate, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer, then add pineapple chunks. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through. For a thicker sauce, stir in a mixture of 1 tbsp cornstarch and water, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or quinoa. Enjoy your tropical-inspired dinner!
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor, slicing and cooking it similarly to canned chunks.
- Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free if following a gluten-free diet.
- For extra crispy chicken, consider finishing in an air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tropical / Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free (with gluten-free soy sauce)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg