Description
This easy-to-bake Sticky Pineapple Chicken recipe delivers tender chicken enveloped in a sweet, tangy, and incredibly glossy glaze. It’s truly the best flavor combination for a perfect family meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water (for slurry)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (for finishing)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry, cut into 1-inch pieces, and season with salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 2. Whisk Sauce: In a bowl, whisk pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. In a separate small bowl, combine cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry, then whisk into the sauce mixture.
- 3. Marinate (Optional): Pour two-thirds of the sauce over the chicken. Add drained pineapple chunks and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- 4. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and sauce is bubbling, stirring once.
- 5. Thicken Glaze: Remove from oven, pour remaining sauce over chicken and pineapple. Return to oven or broiler for 5-10 minutes until sauce is thick, glossy, and caramelized. Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins