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Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Recipe for Easy Family Dinners

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A quick and easy savory brown sugar pineapple chicken dish that balances sweet and savory flavors, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
  • 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained (240 ml)
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (60 ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15 ml)
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced thin (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts into 1-inch wide bite-sized strips and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and rice vinegar. Stir until sugar starts to dissolve and set aside.
  3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Warm for about 1 minute until shimmering.
  4. Add chicken strips in a single layer and sear undisturbed for about 3 minutes until lightly golden. Flip and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
  5. Add drained pineapple chunks to the skillet and stir gently. Cook for 2 minutes to warm through and release juice.
  6. Pour the brown sugar sauce over the chicken and pineapple. Stir gently to coat evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
  7. Season with black pepper to taste. If sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it. Remove from heat once glaze clings nicely.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for better browning. Use medium heat to avoid burning sugar. Do not overcrowd pan to ensure proper searing. Stir sauce gently to keep pineapple chunks intact. Sauce can be made ahead to save time. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. Use tamari for gluten-free version. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently with added water or broth to restore glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar chicken, pineapple chicken, easy family dinner, quick chicken recipe, savory chicken, weeknight dinner, caramelized chicken, sweet and savory chicken

Find it online: https://bouncybowl.com/savory-brown-sugar-pineapple-chicken-recipe-for-easy-family-dinners/