Save to Pinterest A sweet and tangy Hawaiian-inspired dish with juicy chicken pieces baked in a caramelized brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple glaze. Tender pineapple chunks add tropical flair, making this meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
This is one of my favorite dinners to make when I want something flavorful yet simple. The glaze caramelizes beautifully every time, and it always impresses guests!
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into chunks, salt and pepper to taste, 1 tsp garlic powder, 2 tbsp olive oil
- Sauce & Glaze: 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks with juice (do not drain), ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark), ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), 1 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger), 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Garnish & Optional: Red pepper flakes (optional for heat), chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 3:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for about 4 minutes turning occasionally.
- Step 4:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice (from the can), rice vinegar, ginger, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Step 5:
- Add the browned chicken and pineapple chunks to the prepared baking dish. Pour the glaze over the top and stir gently to coat.
- Step 6:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Step 8:
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and if desired a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings my family together around the table especially on busy weeknights when we want comfort food that doesn’t take all day.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple Chicken
Use fresh pineapple juice if you can for a brighter flavor. Also make sure to brown the chicken well to add depth to the glaze.
Storage and Reheating
This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully. Flavors deepen overnight.
Variations to Try
Add chopped bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color. For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Save to Pinterest This pineapple chicken is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, combining ease and bold flavor in every bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well; thighs provide extra juiciness while breasts offer a leaner option.
- → Can I substitute the vinegar used?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can replace rice vinegar without altering the dish's flavor significantly.
- → How do I get the glaze thick and glossy?
The cornstarch in the sauce helps thicken the glaze during baking, especially if you remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, the flavors deepen overnight and it reheats well for quick meals throughout the week.
- → How can I add some heat?
Red pepper flakes can be added during cooking or as a garnish to introduce a subtle spicy kick.