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Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken

Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken

Discover a perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this easy-to-make Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken recipe. Juicy pineapple chunks mingle with rich brown sugar and a flavorful spicy kick, creating a delicious, vibrant dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress at any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Produce

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Pantry

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 to 1.5 teaspoons chili flakes or fresh chili (adjust to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop the fresh pineapple into chunks. Mince the garlic and ginger finely, and slice the green onions for garnish. Having everything prepped will ensure a smooth cooking process.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, chili flakes, lime juice, minced garlic, and ginger. This sauce will be the heart of your Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken, offering a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and mostly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  4. Add Pineapple and Sauce: Once the chicken is nearly done, stir in the pineapple chunks and pour the prepared sauce over the top. Reduce the heat slightly and let everything simmer together until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken beautifully, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh crunch and pop of color. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes to complete the meal.

Notes

  • Choose chicken thighs for juicier, more tender meat compared to breasts.
  • Don’t skip the lime juice; it balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
  • Adjust the chili flakes gradually to find your preferred spice level without overpowering the dish.
  • Allow the sauce to simmer longer for a more caramelized and thicker glaze.
  • Fresh pineapple is preferred for better texture and flavor, but canned pineapple can be used if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy chicken, pineapple chicken, brown sugar chicken, sweet and spicy chicken, quick chicken recipe, gluten free chicken dish