Save 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 recipe quickly became a family favorite because of its balance of sweet and savory flavors and ease of preparation.
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 We often enjoy this meal together on cozy weeknights, sharing stories while the sweet pineapple aroma fills the kitchen.
Notes
Substitute apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar if necessary. For added heat, include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Excellent for meal prep the flavors deepen overnight and it reheats well.
Required Tools
9×13-inch baking dish, large skillet, mixing bowls, whisk, foil, cutting board and knife
Allergen Information
Contains soy (from soy sauce). Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens. Gluten alert Most soy sauce contains wheat use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
Save This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for anyone wanting a tropical twist on a classic chicken dish.
Kitchen Help
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well; thighs offer juicier results, while breasts provide a leaner option.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce enhances the heat without overpowering the sweet glaze.
- → Is it necessary to brown the chicken before baking?
Browning the chicken helps lock in flavor and adds a pleasant caramelized texture before baking in the glaze.
- → What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative that maintains tanginess in the glaze.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently; flavors deepen and sauce thickens overnight.