Pineapple and Brussels Sprout Chicken

Name: Pineapple and Brussels Sprout Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Pineapple and Brussels Sprout Chicken recipe because it's a delightful blend of sweetness and savory flavors. Each bite is a little burst of brightness from the pineapple paired with the wonderfully earthy Brussels sprouts. The marinade, made with soy sauce and ginger, brings everything together in a simple yet elegant way. This dish not only excites my taste buds but also makes for a fantastic weeknight dinner or a special meal with friends. Let’s dive into this tropical-inspired dish that’s sure to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:51:29.005Z

When I first experimented with combining pineapple and Brussels sprouts in a dish, I didn’t expect it to be such a hit! The contrast of the sweet and tangy pineapple against the lightly roasted Brussels sprouts created a wonderful harmony that left my guests wanting more. I found that marinating the chicken for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to really penetrate, making each bite even more delicious.

Additionally, I discovered that browning the chicken before adding the sprouts enhances the overall flavor of the dish. That caramelization adds a depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pineapple. It’s a technique I now use frequently because it elevates the dish without adding any fuss!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and tangy balance from fresh pineapple
Nutty flavor from roasted Brussels sprouts
Simple ingredients that come together quickly

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The chicken, marinated in soy sauce and ginger, acts as the centerpiece, absorbing those vibrant flavors. The soy sauce not only adds saltiness but also enhances the umami profile of the dish, while the honey introduces a subtle sweetness that complements the pineapple. Together, they create a flavorful marinade that ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender during cooking.

Brussels sprouts are not just a nutritious addition; their nutty flavor becomes even more pronounced when roasted. The high heat of the oven caramelizes their outer leaves, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy edges and tender centers. Pairing them with sweet pineapple chunks introduces a bright acidity, which balances the earthy notes of the sprouts perfectly. This interplay adds complexity to every bite, making for a truly gourmet experience at home.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing it with flavor. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but if time allows, marinading it for up to two hours can yield even more flavor. Try using a zip-top bag for marinating; it allows the marinade to coat the chicken evenly and make cleanup easier. While you're busy with the chicken, don’t forget to monitor the Brussels sprouts in the oven. Give them a quick toss halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking and browning.

Cooking the chicken in a skillet before roasting is a key technique for enhanced flavor. The initial searing creates a delicious crust and locks in moisture. Look for a golden-brown color on each side; this usually indicates that they’re ready to transfer to the oven. This dual cooking method not only ensures even doneness but also enriches the overall taste, as the chicken absorbs the flavors from the pan juices during roasting.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Garnishing with chopped green onions adds a fresh, zesty note that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. For an extra touch, consider drizzling a little additional honey over the chicken prior to serving for an appealing glaze. You can also serve this dish over a bed of quinoa or jasmine rice to soak up the delicious juices, adding a satisfying component to the meal that elevates it to a complete dinner.

There are endless variations to explore with this recipe. Consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for more color and texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, a few dashes of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha in the marinade can elevate the flavor profile. Additionally, this recipe can easily be scaled up for meal prep or family gatherings—simply adjust the quantities and use larger baking sheets to accommodate all the ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a vibrant and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped before you start cooking to simplify the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a flavorful and balanced dish.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Add chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the chicken is marinating, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.

Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated chicken, cooking until browned on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side.

Combine and Roast

Add the pineapple chunks and Brussels sprouts to the skillet. Transfer to the oven and roast for another 15-20 minutes until Brussels sprouts are tender and chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy your delightful Pineapple and Brussels Sprout Chicken!

Enjoy your meal with a side of rice or on its own!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade or serving it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating should be done gently to avoid drying out the chicken; using a skillet with a few drops of water can help maintain moisture when warming over low heat. Be mindful not to overcook it during reheating as chicken can become tough.

To freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes for a great make-ahead meal option, saving you time on busy nights while still enjoying a flavorful dinner.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you don’t have fresh pineapple, canned pineapple works just as well. If using canned, drain it well before adding it to the skillet to prevent excess moisture. Another option is to use mango or peach chunks for a different fruity twist that still pairs beautifully with the chicken and Brussels sprouts.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options provide a similar savory flavor without the gluten, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish. Additionally, if you want a vegetarian option, cubed tofu can be marinated and cooked in the same way as the chicken for a delightful alternative.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken ends up dry, it may be a sign of overcooking. Using an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness can help; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For juicy chicken, consider reducing the cooking time slightly and using the marinade as a baste during the cooking process.

Overcooked Brussels sprouts can become mushy and lose their appealing texture. Ensure you use a high enough oven temperature—400°F (200°C)—and roast just until the edges are crispy and the sprouts are tender. If you notice them cooking too quickly, toss them around the baking sheet halfway through to promote even roasting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts will provide a better texture and flavor.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for additional color and crunch.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance, but it's best to cook it fresh.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.