Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, look no further than this vibrant and tantalizing Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken. This dish combines juicy chicken tenderloins with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, bringing an energetic burst of flavor to your table. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s both easy to prepare and bound to impress your family and friends. The sticky sweet goodness of brown sugar combined with the bright notes of pineapple truly makes this a standout dish.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is more than just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a wholesome meal that has the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor. Chicken tenderloins are marinated and then cooked until they are perfectly tender and juicy. The pineapple sauce adds a luscious glaze that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a delicious meal after a long day, this recipe will check all the boxes. Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up any night of the week!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup soy sauce (or liquid aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pineapple chunks for garnish (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

How To Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing the olive oil, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger in a bowl. Whisk until well combined. This mixture will serve as both your marinade and the sauce, yielding a beautifully glazed chicken that bursts with flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken tenderloins in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Pan

Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Add the chicken tenderloins to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure they sear well.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, place the reserved marinade in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Once the marinade is simmering, whisk the cornstarch slurry into the sauce, stirring continuously until thickened, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, return the chicken to the pan. Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece generously. Cook for an additional minute to warm everything together.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

Serve your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh pineapple chunks and chopped green onions for a refreshing touch. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite grain to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your flavorful dish that’s sure to please!

Expert Tips

• For deeper flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavors will be.
• If you prefer some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• For added texture, toss in some vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas while cooking the chicken.
• Make sure not to overcook your chicken tenderloins; they cook quickly and can become dry if left too long in the pan.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute the chicken tenderloins with chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
• If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower rice or zoodles as a base.
• Switch out pineapple juice for orange juice for a different fruity flavor.
• Add more fresh vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, to the pan to make this a complete one-pan meal.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. To enjoy it longer, consider freezing the chicken in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of pineapple juice?

Absolutely! You can blend fresh pineapple chunks to make your own juice, or chop and incorporate pineapple chunks directly into the dish for extra texture and freshness.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the center.

Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance. You can also cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator; it reheats well and tastes just as delicious.

What sides pair well with Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it alongside sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you’ve transformed ordinary chicken into something extraordinary with this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe. Its delightful balance of sweet and savory, combined with the ease of preparation, makes it a staple dish in any home kitchen. Whether enjoyed on a casual weeknight or dressed up for an occasion, this recipe embodies the joy of cooking. So grab your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy every delicious bite! Happy cooking!