Amazing Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken In 30 Minutes
This incredible sweet and spicy chicken features tender chicken glazed with a sticky pineapple brown sugar sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
For the Marinade & Sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice 100% juice, not from concentrate
- 6 tablespoons BBQ sauce your favorite brand
- 6 tablespoons brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1.5 lbs total
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
For Garnish
- sliced green onions optional
- fresh pineapple chunks optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, reserving ¼ cup for basting later. Marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 4 hours for best results.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (discard used marinade) and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Pour the reserved ¼ cup of marinade over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking, turning to coat evenly. The sauce will thicken and create a beautiful glaze.
- Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh pineapple chunks. Serve immediately over rice or with your favorite sides.
Notes
For a quicker version, you can skip the marinating time and simply simmer the chicken in the sauce for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and glazed. The flavor will still be delicious, though marinating does enhance the tenderness and depth of flavor.