5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken : Sweet & Savory

Posted on May 8, 2025 · [post_author]

brown sugar pineapple chicken in a black bowl with text overlay that says brown sugar pineapple chicken

If you’re craving something that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and juicy, look no further than this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe. Inspired by Hawaiian-style Huli Huli chicken, this dish is infused with tropical pineapple juice, rich brown sugar, garlic, and soy sauce, creating a marinade that caramelizes beautifully whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

It’s perfect for summer BBQs, cozy family dinners, or meal prepping for the week. Best of all, it’s simple to make with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.

📝 Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe

  • Tropical Sweet & Savory Flavor: Pineapple juice and brown sugar make a sticky, golden glaze
  • Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill, bake, or sear—it’s delicious either way
  • Perfect for All Seasons: Light enough for summer, comforting enough for winter
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: Marinates beautifully overnight and reheats well
  • Family Favorite: Sweet, mild flavor appeals to kids and adults alike

🛒 Ingredients (Serves ~4)

For the Marinade:

  • ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tbsp oil for searing or grilling
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

🕒 Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 1–12 hours
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes (excluding marination)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl or large resealable bag, whisk together all marinade ingredients.
Add chicken and toss to coat. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

Option A: Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Brush with extra marinade while grilling, then discard any remaining marinade.

Option B: Bake

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange marinated chicken in a baking dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, basting once or twice with remaining marinade until chicken is golden and cooked through.

Option C: Pan-Sear

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until caramelized and fully cooked.
Add a little leftover marinade during the last 2 minutes for a quick glaze.

Step 3: Garnish & Serve

Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

🍚 Suggested Sides

  • Coconut rice or jasmine rice
  • Grilled pineapple slices
  • Garlic sautéed green beans
  • Simple cucumber salad with sesame-lime dressing

🔁 Variations & Tips

  • Spicy Version: Add 1–2 tsp sriracha or hot sauce to the marinade
  • Crockpot Method: Cook on low for 4–5 hours, then broil briefly to caramelize
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Use tofu or cauliflower steaks with the same marinade
  • Extra Glaze: Boil leftover marinade (not raw) for 5 minutes to thicken into a glaze

🥡 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freeze: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months
  • Reheat: Microwave or warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat

🧬 Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~380
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sugar: 11g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Values are approximate and based on boneless chicken thighs

🌐 External Resources

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Can I use canned pineapple juice?
Yes, just make sure it’s 100% juice, not syrup. Fresh juice adds brightness but both work well.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour, but 6–12 hours is ideal for deep flavor. Avoid going beyond 24 hours.

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Absolutely, just adjust cook time. Bone-in pieces may take 30–40 minutes in the oven.

Can I use this marinade on other proteins?
Yes! It’s great on pork chops, shrimp, tofu, or salmon.

Can I double the recipe?
Definitely—just use a larger dish or grill in batches.

Print
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5-Star Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken : Sweet & Savory


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 40 minutes (excluding marination)

Description

If you’re craving something that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and juicy, look no further than this Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

  • ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tbsp oil for searing or grilling
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl or large resealable bag, whisk together all marinade ingredients.
Add chicken and toss to coat. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method Option A: Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Brush with extra marinade while grilling, then discard any remaining marinade.

Option B: Bake

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange marinated chicken in a baking dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, basting once or twice with remaining marinade until chicken is golden and cooked through.

Option C: Pan-Sear

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until caramelized and fully cooked.
Add a little leftover marinade during the last 2 minutes for a quick glaze.

Step 3: Garnish & Serve

Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

  • Spicy Version: Add 1–2 tsp sriracha or hot sauce to the marinade
  • Crockpot Method: Cook on low for 4–5 hours, then broil briefly to caramelize
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Use tofu or cauliflower steaks with the same marinade
  • Extra Glaze: Boil leftover marinade (not raw) for 5 minutes to thicken into a glaze
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 11g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Protein: 32g

Keywords: Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

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