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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken for Family Dinners

This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken combines sweet and tangy flavors for a delightful family meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar Consider using coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
  • 0.5 cup pineapple juice Fresh juice is ideal, but canned 100% juice works well, too.
  • 0.33 cup low-sodium soy sauce Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free options.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar Or apple cider vinegar; white vinegar can alter the flavor.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can enhance aroma.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Fresh shallots serve as a fine substitute.
  • 0.5 tsp ground ginger Fresh grated ginger can be used for stronger flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes Optional for a hint of heat.
For the Chicken
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Bone-in chicken pieces can provide a different texture.
  • 1 tbsp oil for searing or grilling Ensures the chicken doesn’t stick during cooking.
For Garnish
  • sliced green onions and sesame seeds Optional for freshness and elegance.

Equipment

  • Large bowl or resealable bag
  • Grill or baking dish or skillet
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl or resealable bag, whisk together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and optional red pepper flakes. Add the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated, then seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
  2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, oven to 400°F (200°C), or skillet over medium-high heat. Oil the grates or grease a baking dish.
  3. For grilling, cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until it reaches 165°F (74°C). For baking, arrange in the greased dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. For pan-searing, cook for 5-7 minutes per side, adding reserved marinade in the last 2 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, slice, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor. Always ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Consider using a meat thermometer.

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