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Delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a sweet, tangy, and ultra-comforting dinner inspired by Grandma’s handwritten recipe notebook. Made in one pan with pantry staples, it’s the ultimate weeknight favorite that tastes like a tropical hug on a plate.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken on a modern marble countertop, showcasing its glossy glaze and golden pineapple chunks.

The sweet smell of caramelizing brown sugar mixed with tropical pineapple has the power to transport you straight to paradise, even on the dreariest Wednesday evening. I’ll never forget the day I accidentally created this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe while desperately trying to use up a can of pineapple chunks that had been sitting in my pantry for months. Tom walked through the front door just as I was pulling this golden, glossy masterpiece from the oven, and his eyes went wide with wonder. “What smells like vacation in here?” he asked, practically floating toward the kitchen on the aroma alone.

The magic happens when that brown sugar starts to bubble and caramelize with the tangy pineapple juice, creating this incredible sweet and savory glaze that coats every piece of tender chicken. What started as a pantry-cleaning experiment has become our most requested dinner, especially when we need something that feels special but doesn’t require a trip to three different grocery stores. This simple pineapple chicken recipe brings together just a handful of ingredients to create something that tastes like it took hours of careful preparation. Trust me, once you taste how that sweet, slightly acidic pineapple brightens up the mild savoriness of chicken, you’ll be making this easy brown sugar pineapple chicken on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken will become your new favorite weeknight dinner hero for so many reasons:

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

This simple pineapple chicken recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something that tastes like it came from your favorite Hawaiian restaurant. I’ve perfected the balance to create that ideal sweet and tangy flavor for this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken!

What You’ll Need

Why These Ingredients Matter

When I first shared this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe with Grandma, she smiled knowingly and said, “Jazzy, the secret to great cooking is understanding why each ingredient belongs.” She was absolutely right about respecting each component. The pineapple chunks with their juice are the star of this show – that natural sweetness and acidity work together to tenderize the chicken while creating incredible flavor depth.

Brown sugar doesn’t just add sweetness; it caramelizes beautifully to create that gorgeous glaze that makes this baked chicken with pineapple and brown sugar so visually stunning. Soy sauce brings that essential umami element that balances all the sweetness and adds complexity. Fresh garlic and ginger provide that aromatic foundation that makes your kitchen smell absolutely divine. The cornstarch is crucial for creating that perfect glossy coating that clings to every piece of chicken. Don’t skip the rice vinegar – it adds just the right amount of tang to brighten all the flavors in this easy brown sugar pineapple chicken recipe.

Instructions for Making Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil for this baked pineapple chicken.

Step 2: Season chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Brown chicken lightly on both sides, about 4 minutes total, until golden but not fully cooked through. Transfer chicken to the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth and no lumps remain for your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken sauce.

Step 5: Pour pineapple chunks with juice over chicken, then pour the brown sugar mixture evenly over everything. Gently stir to coat chicken and pineapple with the sauce.

Step 6: Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and sauce has thickened beautifully for this Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe.

Step 7: Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize the top and create that gorgeous golden glaze.

Step 8: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Hint: Don’t skip the browning step in the skillet! Those golden bits add incredible flavor depth to your easy brown sugar pineapple chicken. Also, make sure to whisk that cornstarch mixture really well to prevent any lumpy sauce disasters in this simple pineapple chicken recipe.

Cooking Tips

Creating the perfect Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is all about mastering these key techniques that make the difference between good and absolutely incredible:

  • Save some fresh pineapple chunks to add in the last 10 minutes of baking for extra texture contrast in this baked chicken with pineapple and brown sugar
  • Don’t overcook the chicken during the browning step – you’re just creating flavor, not cooking it through
  • Whisk the cornstarch mixture thoroughly to prevent lumps that can ruin your smooth, glossy pineapple chicken glaze
  • Use the juice from the canned pineapple – it’s liquid gold for tenderizing and flavoring the chicken
  • Check your chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F safely
  • If your sauce seems too thin after baking, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it in
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking so the sauce can thicken to that perfect consistency
  • For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning
  • Choose pineapple chunks over crushed for the best texture and visual appeal in your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
  • Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar if your pineapple is particularly tart

Personal Anecdote

I discovered this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe during one of those frantic “what’s for dinner” moments when I had absolutely nothing planned and company coming over in two hours. Grandma had always told me that the best meals come from desperation and creativity, but I was skeptical until that particular evening. “Jazzy, stop panicking and look at what you actually have,” she would have said, so I took a deep breath and surveyed my pantry.

All I could find was some chicken breasts, a lonely can of pineapple chunks, and basic pantry staples. I threw everything together in a baking dish, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. When I opened the oven door 35 minutes later, I was greeted by the most incredible sweet and tangy aroma that had me questioning whether I’d accidentally ordered takeout and forgotten about it.

Tom’s parents arrived just as I was pulling this golden, bubbly masterpiece from the oven, and his mother immediately asked for the recipe before she’d even taken her first bite. That’s when I knew I’d stumbled onto something special. Now this Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe is my go-to whenever I want to look like I’ve got my life together, even when I’m secretly winging it. Grandma would be proud of how a moment of kitchen panic turned into one of our family’s most beloved dinners with this easy brown sugar pineapple chicken.

Substitutions for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Here are simple swaps to customize this delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken for your dietary needs and taste preferences:

For another sweet and savory chicken dinner that’s just as easy and delicious, try my Honey Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe which uses similar simple ingredients for amazing results!

Variations on Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Transform this basic Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe into exciting new flavors that’ll keep your dinner routine fresh and interesting:

For another crowd-pleasing chicken recipe that’s perfect for entertaining, check out my Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken which delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home!

Equipment for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Having the right tools makes creating this perfect Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken much easier and more enjoyable:

For another delicious chicken recipe that uses similar equipment and techniques, try my Best Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich in 30 Minutes which also starts with perfectly seasoned and seared chicken!

Storage Tips for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Proper storage keeps this delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken fresh and flavorful for days of amazing leftovers:

For another make-ahead chicken dish that stores beautifully and reheats perfectly, my Chicken Fried Steak recipe is another family favorite that’s perfect for meal prep!

What to Serve With Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken pairs beautifully with sides that complement its sweet and tangy flavors without competing for attention:

Rice & Grains:

Fresh Vegetables:

Comfort Sides:

This simple pineapple chicken recipe is so flavorful that you really just need one or two simple sides to create a complete, satisfying easy weeknight dinner that feels both exotic and comforting at the same time!

For more delicious side dish inspiration, check out my Nutty Quinoa Breakfast Bowl which shows how versatile grains can be for any meal of the day!

Grandma’s Secret for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Jazzy, the secret to the most flavorful Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is in the little details that make all the difference,” Grandma whispered as she shared her time-tested techniques:

Look at this absolutely stunning Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with its golden, caramelized glaze coating every piece perfectly! The gorgeous amber color and glossy finish prove this easy brown sugar pineapple chicken delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

FAQ about Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

How long should I marinate chicken in pineapple?

For this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe, 30 minutes to 2 hours is perfect for marinating. The natural enzymes in pineapple are powerful tenderizers, so don’t go longer than 4 hours or the chicken can become mushy. I typically marinate for about an hour while I prep other ingredients – it’s the sweet spot for maximum flavor without compromising texture in this pineapple juice marinade.

Is it okay to eat pineapple and chicken together?

Absolutely! Pineapple and chicken is a classic combination that’s been enjoyed for generations, especially in Hawaiian and Asian cuisines. The sweet, slightly acidic pineapple perfectly complements the mild flavor of chicken, and the natural enzymes actually help tenderize the meat. This simple pineapple chicken recipe is proof that this pairing creates something truly delicious.

How to make brown sugar cinnamon pineapple?

While this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe focuses on savory flavors, you can easily add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the brown sugar mixture for warm spice notes. The cinnamon pairs beautifully with both the brown sugar and pineapple, adding a cozy depth that makes this easy brown sugar pineapple chicken perfect for fall and winter meals.

What is in Chinese pineapple chicken?

Chinese pineapple chicken typically includes battered and fried chicken pieces with pineapple chunks in a sweet and sour sauce made from sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. My baked version is healthier but captures similar flavors using brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar for that perfect sweet and tangy balance without the heavy breading and frying in this baked chicken with pineapple and brown sugar.

Conclusion

Honestly, I never expected a simple combination of chicken, pineapple, and brown sugar to become such a game-changer in our dinner rotation, but this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken has completely won over our entire family! The way that sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes to perfection while keeping the chicken incredibly moist and flavorful is pure kitchen magic. What I love most about this Hawaiian pineapple chicken recipe is how it transforms ordinary weeknight ingredients into something that feels special enough for company, yet simple enough for those hectic Tuesday evenings when everyone’s running in different directions.

The versatility of this simple pineapple chicken recipe means you’ll never get bored – I’m constantly discovering new ways to adapt it for different occasions and flavor preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy weekdays, entertaining guests who think you’re a culinary genius, or just treating your family to something that tastes like a tropical vacation, this easy brown sugar pineapple chicken delivers restaurant-quality results every single time.

This baked pineapple chicken has become more than just a recipe in our house – it’s become a reminder that sometimes the most incredible meals come from the simplest combinations. The sweet, slightly acidic pineapple brightens up the mild savoriness of chicken in ways that never fail to surprise and delight everyone at the table.

Whether you choose to make this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken in the oven, try the brown sugar pineapple chicken slow cooker version, or experiment with brown sugar pineapple chicken thighs, you’ll discover that this baked chicken with pineapple and brown sugar creates memories around your dinner table. The pineapple chicken glaze that forms during cooking transforms this into an easy weeknight dinner that rivals any restaurant.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to enjoy pineapple with chicken, I found these delicious Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs that take the grilling route and create the perfect summer meal with similar tropical flavors. This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe proves that whether you’re making a brown sugar pineapple chicken crockpot version or sticking with the classic baked method, you’ll always end up with a sweet and tangy chicken dinner that brings smiles to every face at your table. Now excuse me while I go start marinating tomorrow’s batch – I’m thinking about trying that coconut variation next with this amazing Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken!

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken on a modern marble countertop, showcasing its glossy glaze and golden pineapple chunks.
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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a sweet, tangy, and ultra-comforting dinner inspired by Grandma’s handwritten recipe notebook. Made in one pan with pantry staples, it’s the ultimate weeknight favorite that tastes like a tropical hug on a plate.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Hawaiian-inspired
Keyword baked pineapple chicken, brown sugar pineapple chicken, easy pineapple chicken, sweet and tangy chicken, weeknight chicken recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 390kcal
Cost $12

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet For browning the chicken
  • 1 9×13-inch baking dish Ceramic or glass preferred
  • 1 Medium mixing bowl For whisking the glaze
  • 1 Whisk Helps dissolve sugar and cornstarch
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons For precise flavor balance
  • 1 Aluminum foil To cover the dish during baking

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Cut into medium chunks
  • 1 can pineapple chunks 20 oz can, with juice (do not drain)
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar Light or dark, depending on how deep you want the flavor
  • 0.33 cup soy sauce Low sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Balances the sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger Or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps thicken the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For browning chicken
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds aromatic base
  • salt and pepper To taste
  • red pepper flakes Optional – If you like it with a touch of heat
  • chopped green onions Optional garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
  • Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Brown the Chicken in a Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned chicken for about 4 minutes total, until golden but not cooked through.
  • Whisk the Pineapple Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, the pineapple juice from the can, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and cornstarch until smooth.
  • Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the browned chicken to the baking dish. Pour pineapple chunks with juice over it and drizzle the glaze. Stir gently to coat.
  • Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F) and sauce thickens.
  • Caramelize Uncovered: Remove foil and bake another 5–10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
  • Rest and Garnish: Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions or reserved pineapple chunks.

Notes

Substitutions:
  • Use fresh pineapple and ½ cup pineapple juice instead of canned.
  • Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free/paleo.
  • Swap chicken breasts for thighs or drumsticks.
Tips:
  • Browning the chicken first adds big flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Double the glaze if you want more sauce—simmer any extra on the stove.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and stir sauce to recombine.
Serving Ideas: Serve over jasmine rice, coconut rice, or garlic mashed potatoes. Add steamed broccoli or roasted peppers to complete the meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 390kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 780mg | Potassium: 420mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1.2mg
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