If you’re looking for an easy, sweet-and-tangy dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, this Quick Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is exactly what you need. Tender chicken pieces are cooked until golden, then tossed in a sticky, caramelized sauce made with brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and fresh pineapple chunks. The result is perfectly glazed chicken with that irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors that tastes like your favorite Hawaiian-style takeout but made fresh at home. This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe is how the brown sugar caramelizes with the pineapple juice to create a thick, glossy glaze that coats every piece of chicken, while the pineapple chunks add juicy bursts of tropical sweetness in every bite.
Complete Ingredient List (Serves 4)
This version is easy to scale up for meal prep or larger families.
For the Chicken
- 1½-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispy coating)
For the Brown Sugar Pineapple Sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1½ cups fresh or canned pineapple chunks, drained
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Step-By-Step Instructions
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. If you want extra crispy chicken, toss the pieces in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch before cooking.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Add red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat.
Add Pineapple and Chicken
Stir in the pineapple chunks and let them warm through for 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is completely coated in the sticky brown sugar pineapple sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the sauce is thick and clinging to the chicken.
Serve
Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls. Top with the brown sugar pineapple chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips for the Best Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat that won’t dry out. Use day-old or cold cooked rice for the best texture when serving. Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry—it’s what creates that thick, glossy, restaurant-style sauce. Fresh pineapple adds the best flavor, but canned pineapple chunks work great in a pinch. Adjust the sweetness by using more or less brown sugar to suit your taste. For a tangier sauce, add an extra tablespoon of vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days; the flavors get even better the next day.
Variations and Customizations
Add bell peppers and onions along with the pineapple for more vegetables. Use shrimp instead of chicken for brown sugar pineapple shrimp. Make it spicier with extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Add snap peas or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition. Grill the chicken for a smokier flavor, then toss with the sauce. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Top with crushed cashews or macadamia nuts for extra tropical flair. Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)
This dish is packed with lean protein from the chicken (about 35-40 grams per serving), keeping you full and satisfied. The pineapple provides vitamin C and bromelain, while the ginger adds anti-inflammatory properties. The brown sugar adds sweetness but you can reduce the amount for a lighter version. Paired with rice and vegetables, it’s a well-balanced meal.
Why This Works So Well for TikTok and Pinterest
Quick Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken is incredibly photogenic with its glossy, caramelized sauce coating golden chicken pieces and bright yellow pineapple chunks. The moment when the sauce thickens and coats the chicken makes for satisfying video content, and the “perfect weeknight” hook resonates with busy viewers. For Pinterest, focus on overhead shots showing the glazed chicken over fluffy white rice with colorful garnishes, close-ups of the sticky sauce, or styled shots with tropical props. The 30-minute timeline and sweet-savory flavor make this recipe highly shareable.
Serve this delicious chicken over rice with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this easy, flavorful chicken has become such a favorite for quick weeknight dinners that bring a taste of the tropics to your table.
