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.
I first served this to my family and we all enjoyed how the flavors blended together perfectly for a comforting dinner.
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 dish always brings smiles at our family dinners and invites seconds from everyone at the table.
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 (per serving)
Save Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → 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 substitute apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute without drastically altering the flavor profile.
- → How do you get the glaze to thicken properly?
The cornstarch added to the sauce helps thicken it as it bakes; removing the foil towards the end allows the glaze to become glossy and rich.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely. Flavors deepen when chilled overnight, making it a great option for meal prep and easy reheating.
- → Is it possible to add heat to this dish?
Yes, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled in to bring a spicy kick without overpowering the sweet and tangy balance.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed rice or noodles complement the tropical sweetness and savory glaze perfectly, balancing the meal.