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Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight

A delightful blend of sweet and savory, this chicken dish combines rich brown sugar with zesty pineapple for an unforgettable taste experience.

Min-Jae Park - Head Chef
By Min-Jae Park
4.7 (150 reviews)
Jump to Recipe
Delicious Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight - homemade American comfort food recipe
Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight - Ready to enjoy

Imagine a dish where the sweetness of brown sugar dances with the tangy zest of pineapple, all enveloping tender, juicy chicken. This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is like a tropical vacation on a plate. As it cooks, your kitchen fills with an intoxicating aroma that promises something truly special. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true celebration of flavors. The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully, creating a glossy, sticky glaze that clings to each piece of chicken. The pineapple adds a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness, balancing the dish perfectly. It's a versatile recipe, easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Plus, the combination of sweet and savory is universally loved, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Every bite is a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, making this dish not just a meal, but an experience.

Step-by-step preparation of Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight showing ingredients and initial cooking steps
Preparing the ingredients
Cooking process for Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight showing technique and proper timing
During the cooking process

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Non-stick skillet

Essential for evenly cooking the chicken without sticking

Sharp knife

For dicing the pineapple and chicken precisely

Wooden spoon

Ideal for stirring the glaze to prevent burning

Cutting board

Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients

Perfect Pairings

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Its subtle flavor complements the bold chicken

Grilled Asparagus

Adds a fresh, crisp texture to the meal

Chilled White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the tropical notes

Mixed Green Salad

Light and refreshing, it balances the richness

Perfectly cooked Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight served and ready to eat - final result
The perfect finished result

Pro Tips

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavors that truly impress.
  • Use fresh pineapple for a vibrant, tangy contrast to the sweet brown sugar.
  • Sear the chicken until golden brown to lock in the juices and enhance texture.

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Sweet Pineapple Chicken Delight

Indulge in a symphony of flavors with this sweet and savory chicken dish. The rich brown sugar melds perfectly with the tangy pineapple, creating a taste sensation you won't forget.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Category: Dinners
Servings: 4 yields
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

💡 Click on ingredients to check them off!

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

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  1. 1
    Prepare Chicken
    Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and season with black pepper.
  2. 2
    Sauté Ingredients
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  3. 3
    Cook Chicken
    Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides.
  4. 4
    Mix Sauce
    In a bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, and lime juice. Pour over chicken.
  5. 5
    Add Pineapple
    Stir in pineapple chunks and let simmer until the sauce thickens.
  6. 6
    Thicken Sauce
    Mix cornstarch with water and add to the skillet, stirring until the sauce is glossy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories 420
Total Fat 9.5g
Carbohydrates 45.0g
Protein 32.0g

Chef's Notes

  • The aroma of caramelized brown sugar fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.
  • Each bite of chicken is tender and juicy, with a delightful sweetness from the pineapple.
  • The golden glaze gives the dish a beautiful, appetizing sheen that catches the eye.
  • Serve with steamed rice to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, canned pineapple works well and adds convenience. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the dish. Fresh pineapple, however, provides a more vibrant flavor.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa are excellent choices to complement the sweet and savory flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also balances the richness of the dish.

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and store separately. Combine and heat them together before serving to ensure the chicken remains tender and the sauce fresh.