Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a sweet, savory, and incredibly flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a rich brown sugar–soy sauce glaze. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Serve it with rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete meal!
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the Oil:
Warm vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the Chicken:
Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, and ginger. Stir until the mixture combines and begins to bubble.
Add Pineapple:
Stir in the pineapple chunks to coat them in the sauce.
Return Chicken:
Place the seared chicken back in the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
Simmer:
Lower heat to low, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for brightness and flavor.
Serve:
Plate the chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top.
Want it extra saucy? Add ¼ cup pineapple juice or water if the sauce gets too thick.
Prefer thighs? Boneless chicken thighs work great and stay very juicy.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Pair with: White rice, coconut rice, roasted veggies, or stir-fried noodles.