Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the savory essence of chicken with the sweet tropical flavor of pineapple and the rich depth of brown sugar. This recipe is not only simple to make but delivers a mouthwatering result that will have your family asking for seconds. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-follow recipe brings the best of both worlds—an exotic tropical flair and a comforting, hearty essence. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

• Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: The sweetness from the brown sugar and pineapple makes this dish appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Nutritional Benefits: Packed with protein from chicken and enriched with vitamins from fresh pineapple, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that fits any occasion.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

To create this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients combined act as a symphony of flavors, delivering a balanced sweetness that will tantalize your taste buds.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating the perfect Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these straightforward steps to ensure a successful dish every time:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup after the meal!

2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger to create a flavorful marinade that will soak into the chicken.

3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated, then let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing flavor.

4. Add Pineapple: After marinating, place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Scatter the fresh pineapple chunks over the chicken, allowing the juice to seep into the dish for added flavor.

5. Bake: Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection!

6. Garnish and Serve: Once done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Slice and serve your delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken!

Tips & Tricks

• Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
• Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks will provide better flavor than canned. However, if pressed for time, canned pineapple can work in a pinch!
• Add Spices: Feel free to spice things up by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a hint of heat.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken can be served in a multitude of ways. Here are some delectable pairing suggestions:

• Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Enjoy with steamed vegetables for a nutritious side.
• Pair with a fresh, colorful salad to balance the sweetness of the chicken.
• Nice options include pineapple fried rice or a warm Asian slaw.

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional content may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg

This dish offers a solid protein punch while still being relatively low in calories—a win-win!

Storing Tips & Variations for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Storing: If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can also freeze the marinated chicken (without cooking) for up to 3 months for a quick meal later on. Thaw it in the fridge before cooking.

Variations:

• Substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein source.
• Add other fruits like mango or bell peppers for added color and taste.
• For a tangier sauce, try adding a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade.

Conclusion for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

Now that you have the complete recipe for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish combines ease and gourmet flair in a way that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a family night or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Enjoy the tropical flavors and the delightful sweetness that comes with every bite. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

2. What can I use instead of brown sugar?
   If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses, or honey, although the taste may vary slightly.

3. Can I make this dish on the grill?
   Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken as directed and then grill it over medium heat, brushing with the marinade until cooked through.

4. How can I enhance the flavor further?
   Consider adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade or marinating with fresh herbs like cilantro for an aromatic twist.

5. Is it okay to slice the chicken before serving?
   Yes, slicing the chicken after it rests helps it absorb the juices better and makes for a beautiful presentation!

Give this recipe a try and share your own twists or improvements! Happy cooking!

Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken

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A delightful dish that perfectly marries the savory essence of chicken with the sweet tropical flavor of pineapple and the rich depth of brown sugar.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
4. After marinating, place the chicken in the baking dish and scatter the fresh pineapple chunks over the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions. Slice and serve.

Notes

For even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken longer. Fresh pineapple provides better flavor than canned. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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