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Best Caramelized Pineapple Chicken Recipe

This caramelized pineapple chicken recipe features juicy chicken thighs seared until golden and coated in a glossy sweet-and-savory pineapple glaze, making it a fast and flavorful dinner option.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and add soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Simmer the sauce for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced.
  7. Add pineapple chunks and cook for 3–4 minutes until caramelized.
  8. Mix cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry.
  9. Stir slurry into the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens.
  10. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
  11. Cook for 1–2 minutes until heated through and glazed.
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Fresh pineapple caramelizes best, but canned can be used if well drained.