Dive into the tantalizing world of flavors with Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Fiesta. This dish combines the sweetness of pineapple and brown sugar with a spicy kick, creating a perfect harmony of taste. Ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings, this recipe guarantees a memorable culinary experience with its bold flavors and vibrant appeal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the can or fresh)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Cooked rice or tortillas for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, paprika, cayenne pepper, chili flakes, black pepper, and salt.
- Whisk until the brown sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced bell peppers and onions, sautéing until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place it in the hot skillet.
- Sear the chicken on both sides for 3-4 minutes each, until golden brown.
- Create the Sauce
- Lower the heat and pour the remaining marinade into the skillet with the chicken. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to cook through.
- Add the sautéed vegetables and pineapple chunks to the skillet, stirring gently to combine.
- Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside warm tortillas for a complete meal.
This Spicy Pineapple Brown Sugar Chicken Fiesta is a true celebration of flavors, offering a balance of sweetness, spice, and tang. Perfect for any occasion, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!