Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken: A Juicy & Sweet Chinese Cooking Recipe 🍍🍗✨
1. Introduction
Are you searching for a delicious and easy chicken dinner recipe that tantalizes your taste buds with a perfect blend of sweetness and savory flavors? Look no further! This Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken recipe is an irresistible choice for those who love to explore chicken dishes recipes and enjoy creating flavorful meals inspired by Chinese cooking recipes. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe promises tender chicken paired with luscious pineapple, coated in a rich brown sugar glaze. Discover how simple ingredients and a bit of culinary magic turn into a picture-perfect, mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
2. Ingredients for the Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
For more hearty chicken options, consider exploring chicken breast recipes or other versatile chicken dinner recipes.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Preparation of the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cooking the Pineapple and Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken slightly. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce to achieve a glossy, thick consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat well.
Finishing Touches
Cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For an extra touch of texture and flavor, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. This chicken dinner pairs beautifully with steamed rice or vegetable stir-fry.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or gently warm in a skillet until heated through. For best results, avoid freezing, as pineapple may become mushy upon thawing. For more ideas on meal prepping, check out smothered chicken and rice or other chicken recipes.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Pineapple Chicken
Serve your Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken over fluffy steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the sweet and savory sauce perfectly. As a side, consider colorful stir-fried vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the meal. For a fun Asian-inspired touch, include chicken and broccoli pasta recipes as an alternative.
6. Additional Variations and Tips to Make the Best Pineapple Chicken
- Add a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
- Use fresh pineapple for a firmer texture and vibrant flavor.
- Include bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and color.
- Adjust the sweetness level by varying the brown sugar amount to suit your taste.
Looking for other chicken recipes? Check out options that can complement your meal and expand your culinary repertoire.
7. FAQs about Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
What is the best way to make Pineapple Chicken from scratch?
The key to an authentic Chinese cooking recipes style Pineapple Chicken is balancing the sweetness of pineapple and brown sugar with savory soy sauce. Use fresh pineapple for best flavor and make the sauce from scratch using pantry staples.
Can I use frozen pineapple for this recipe?
Yes, frozen pineapple works well in this recipe. Drain excess moisture before adding to the sauce to prevent excess liquid. Fresh pineapple will give a more vibrant flavor and firmer texture, though.
Is this Pineapple Chicken recipe healthy?
It can be a healthy meal if you use lean chicken breast and control the amount of brown sugar and soy sauce. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced and nutritious chicken dinner.
8. Related Chicken Recipes to Try
Expand your culinary horizon with these delicious options:
These recipes are perfect for fans of hearty chicken dinner options and meat recipes.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken seamlessly combines sweet and savory flavors to create a memorable dish that embodies the best of Chinese cooking recipes. Easy to prepare and full of delightful flavors, this chicken dinner is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Remember to experiment with variations and enjoy crafting a delicious meal that will impress family and friends alike. For more inspiring recipes, explore the wide selection of chicken dishes recipes on our website and elevate your home cooking today!
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Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
Discover the mouthwatering recipe for Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken, a sweet and savory Chinese-inspired dish perfect for weeknights or special gatherings. Juicy chicken cubes simmered in a luscious brown sugar and pineapple sauce make this meal irresistibly delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple chunks. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add to the sauce to thicken. Return chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for a firmer texture and vibrant flavor.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar according to taste.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
- For added crunch, include sliced bell peppers or snap peas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
