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 dish quickly became a family favorite because it balances savory and sweet perfectly while being simple enough for busy evenings.
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 This recipe often sparks joy at the family table as everyone enjoys the blend of pineapple sweetness and savory chicken together.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 380 Total Fat: 9 g Carbohydrates: 46 g Protein: 29 g
Save Enjoy this dish fresh or prepared ahead for a quick delicious meal any day of the week.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, but thighs offer more juiciness and tenderness.
- → How do I thicken the pineapple glaze?
The glaze thickens in the oven thanks to cornstarch and caramelization from the brown sugar during baking.
- → Can I substitute rice vinegar with something else?
Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute that maintains the necessary acidity to balance the sweetness.
- → Is it possible to add heat to this dish?
Red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be added to introduce a spicy kick without overpowering the sweetness.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad complement the tropical flavors and rich glaze nicely.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight and it reheats well for convenient meal prep.