– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Creating this incredible Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is manageable with these straightforward steps:
1. Marinate the Chicken (optional): In a bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and pineapple juice (if using canned pineapple).
3. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
4. Add Pineapple: Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and pineapple.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Glaze the Chicken: Uncover and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly, stirring occasionally.
7. Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
These steps will lead you effortlessly to a delicious meal filled with amazing flavors.