Name: Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp. vegetable oil; ½ large yellow onion, diced; 3-4 chicken breasts, diced into chunks; 3 tbsp. rice vinegar; 3 tbsp. soy sauce; 2 tbsp. Frank’s RedHot sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp. garlic, minced; ½ cup canned diced pineapple, drained; Scallions, sliced; Sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 70 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that’s vibrant, tasty, and comes together in a flash, you will absolutely love this Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe. It masterfully balances tender chicken with sweet pineapple and brown sugar, while introducing an irresistible kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds. Every bite offers a rich combination of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more, making this recipe a perfect choice for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something both comforting and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows an overhead view of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white plate with raw cut chicken pieces, light pink in color. Surrounding this plate are small white bowls and dishes holding chopped white onion, cubed bright yellow pineapple, and light brown brown sugar. There is also a small glass bowl with clear liquid, and three square white dishes with light golden, dark brown, and bright orange liquids or sauces. A small white dish holds white sesame seeds, and on the right side of the image, a bunch of fresh green onions tied with a blue rubber band lies diagonally. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple yet purposeful ingredients sets the foundation for this fantastic recipe. Each item has a role—whether it’s bringing sweetness, spice, tang, or depth, they combine effortlessly to create a dish bursting with harmony and color.

1 tbsp. vegetable oil: Essential for sautéing and adding a light, neutral base to cook the chicken and onions perfectly.
½ large yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and gentle crunch that complements the chicken beautifully.
3-4 chicken breasts, diced into chunks: The main protein that absorbs all the flavors, keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
3 tbsp. rice vinegar: Provides a gentle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and brown sugar.
3 tbsp. soy sauce: Brings a rich umami depth and saltiness to the sauce, rounding out the flavors wonderfully.
2 tbsp. Frank’s RedHot sauce: Delivers the perfect amount of heat without overpowering, creating that spicy edge the recipe is known for.
¼ cup brown sugar: Adds luscious sweetness and helps to caramelize the sauce, thickening it up as it cooks.
2 tbsp. garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that brightens every bite.
½ cup canned diced pineapple, drained: Bursts of juicy sweetness that contrast the spice and enrich every forkful.
Scallions for topping: A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor.
Sesame seeds for topping: Provides a delightful nutty crunch and a pretty finishing touch.

How to Make Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Onions

Begin by warming the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion and cook just until it softens, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step unlocks the onion’s natural sweetness and creates a luscious base for the chicken to sizzle in.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet and let them brown slightly while cooking through. This typically takes around 5 to 6 minutes. The key here is to get just enough color on the chicken to seal in the juices without drying it out—this results in tender, flavorful bites.

Step 3: Add Garlic Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about one minute until fragrant. Garlic infuses the dish with warmth and depth that complements both the sweetness and spice components.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in rice vinegar, soy sauce, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and brown sugar. Give everything a thorough stir so the chicken is evenly coated in this tantalizing mixture. The combination of tangy, sweet, salty, and spicy makes this sauce truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Incorporate Pineapple and Simmer

Add the drained diced pineapple to the skillet, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked. This step allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, while the pineapple softens and releases its tropical sweetness.

How to Serve Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe

In a close-up view of a grey frying pan filled with cooked chicken pieces and pineapple chunks, the chicken is golden brown with some crisp, darker edges, and the pineapple shows bright yellow tones with slight caramelized spots. The chicken and pineapple pieces are mixed together, with small bits of browned onion or spice scattered throughout. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, and the food looks glossy from a sauce coating. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Before serving, sprinkle the dish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds. These garnishes add a fresh pop of green, a subtle crunch, and nutty undertones that elevate every serving to restaurant-quality perfection.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice, which helps soak up the delicious sauce. You can also consider serving it alongside stir-fried vegetables or simple sautéed greens to balance the bold flavors and add a nutritious touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Offering it with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a drizzle of extra hot sauce can also add texture and a flavorful kick that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after resting, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months, ensuring you seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to make sure the sauce heats evenly without drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth can refresh the sauce and keep it luscious.

FAQs

Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish, and they cook at a similar pace to breasts. Just be sure to cut them into uniform chunks for even cooking.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat mainly comes from Frank’s RedHot sauce, which has a moderate heat level. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount slightly, or add more for an extra kick.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works wonderfully. Just make sure to dice it small and drain any excess juices to avoid making the sauce too watery.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How long does this meal take to prepare?

This dish comes together in about 20 minutes total, making it an excellent quick meal option without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that wows every time, with its delightful blend of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness. It’s quick, straightforward, and irresistibly delicious—just the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation. Go ahead, give it a try and watch your friends and family savor every flavorful bite!

Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need