Ingredients
Scale
For the Marinade and Sauce
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/3 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if pan-frying or grilling)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh pineapple chunks or slices
- Sliced green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity to your preference.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, reserving the other half for basting and as a finishing sauce.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare for Cooking
- If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- If pan-frying, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Grilling Option
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the preheated grill. Discard the used marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking.
Baking Option
- Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush with reserved marinade during the last 10 minutes for added flavor.
Pan-Frying Option
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Spoon the reserved marinade over the chicken in the last few minutes to create a glaze.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks, sliced green onions, and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve warm with your choice of sides.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or equivalent
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g