Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe

Try This Zesty Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe

Zesty pineapple ginger glazed chicken thighs promise a flavor explosion that elevates ordinary dinners into culinary adventures.

Bright tropical notes merge seamlessly with warming spice undertones in this mouthwatering recipe.

Sweet and tangy ingredients dance together, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.

Mediterranean and Asian influences shine through each succulent bite of perfectly seasoned meat.

Professional chefs and home cooks alike appreciate simple techniques that deliver maximum taste with minimal effort.

Balanced marinade ingredients guarantee tender, juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth.

Rich golden-brown surfaces hint at complex flavor profiles waiting to tantalize your palate.

Reasons to Love Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

  • Burst with Sweet-Savory Flavor Fusion: This recipe masterfully blends pineapple's tropical sweetness with ginger's spicy kick, creating a mouthwatering taste explosion that dances across your palate.
  • Achieve Restaurant-Quality Glazing Technique: The method of slowly simmering and reducing the sauce, then carefully coating and basting the chicken, delivers a professional-level sticky glaze that looks and tastes like a gourmet restaurant creation.
  • Effortless One-Pan Weeknight Wonder: With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a straightforward baking method, this chicken dish transforms into an impressive meal that's perfect for busy families seeking delicious dinner solutions without complicated cooking steps.
  • Customize with Gorgeous Tropical Garnishes: Optional fresh pineapple slices, green onions, and sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also introduce extra layers of texture and freshness, making the dish feel elevated and exciting.

Ingredients for Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

Meat:
  • Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on cuts provide rich flavor and juicy texture, perfect for glazing and grilling.
Glaze Base:
  • Pineapple Juice, Soy Sauce, Brown Sugar, Ketchup: Core ingredients that create a sweet, tangy, and savory glaze with deep caramelization potential.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and helps balance the glaze's intensity.
Aromatics and Thickeners:
  • Ginger, Garlic: Fresh aromatics that bring sharp, warming notes and enhance overall flavor complexity.
  • Sesame Oil: Provides nutty undertone and authentic Asian-inspired essence.
  • Cornstarch, Water: Creates smooth thickening agent for consistent glaze texture.
Garnish Options:
  • Fresh Pineapple Slices, Green Onions, Sesame Seeds: Optional toppings that add freshness, color, and textural contrast to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare Oven Temperature

Crank up your oven to 375°F. This heat setting will transform your chicken into a golden masterpiece.

Step 2: Arrange Chicken Base

Place chicken thighs in a spacious baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Craft Vibrant Glaze

In a saucepan, combine:
  • Pineapple juice
  • Soy sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Ketchup
  • Chicken broth
  • Grated ginger
  • Minced garlic
  • Sesame oil

Simmer these ingredients on medium heat, stirring occasionally until they dance together into a harmonious blend.

Step 4: Thicken Glaze Magic

After 10 minutes of simmering, whisk cornstarch with water in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture into the sauce, stirring continuously until the glaze transforms into a luscious, clingy consistency.

Step 5: Coat Chicken Generously

Lavish the glaze over each chicken thigh, ensuring every inch gets a luxurious coating. This step guarantees maximum flavor explosion.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes, aiming for an internal chicken temperature of 165°F. Midway through cooking, brush on additional glaze to intensify the flavor profile.

Step 7: Rest And Refresh

Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven. This pause lets juices redistribute, promising tender, succulent meat.

Step 8: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle with:
  • Fresh pineapple chunks
  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Helpful Tips for Making Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

  • Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let chicken thighs sit in the glaze for 30 minutes before baking to enhance taste absorption and tenderness.
  • Control Sauce Thickness: Adjust cornstarch slurry gradually to prevent over-thickening, ensuring a perfect glaze consistency.
  • Prevent Burning: Cover chicken with foil if the glaze starts browning too quickly, protecting the meat from charring.
  • Crispy Skin Technique: Pat chicken skin dry before applying glaze to help achieve a crispier, more caramelized exterior.
  • Rest and Redistribute: Allow chicken to rest precisely 5-7 minutes after baking, letting juices settle for maximum moisture and flavor retention.

How to Store and Reheat Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen chicken maintains quality for up to 3 months when properly sealed.
  • Reheating: Warm chicken in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying. Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture and restore the glaze's shine.

Best Dishes to Serve with Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

  • Boost Tropical Flavor Pairing: Serve alongside coconut rice to complement the pineapple ginger glaze, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes that dance on your palate.
  • Refresh with Crisp Beverage: Pour a chilled white wine like Riesling or a light, citrusy craft beer that cuts through the rich glaze and balances the chicken's sticky sweetness.
  • Enhance Zesty Side Dish: Create a fresh cucumber and green papaya salad with a lime-cilantro dressing to add brightness and crunch, contrasting beautifully with the glazed chicken's deep flavors.
  • Complete Tropical Plate Experience: Add roasted sweet potato wedges seasoned with mild chili powder to provide a warm, earthy undertone that perfectly rounds out the dish's vibrant profile.

Easy Variations of Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs

  • Tropical Island Grilled Version: Replace oven baking with outdoor grilling for a smoky flavor profile. Marinate chicken thighs in the glaze for 2 hours before grilling to enhance depth of taste.
  • Spicy Caribbean Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the glaze for a fiery heat that complements the sweet pineapple notes. Increase ginger quantity for extra warmth and complexity.
  • Hawaiian Slow Cooker Method: Transfer ingredients to a slow cooker, allowing chicken to simmer in the glaze for 4-6 hours. This technique produces incredibly tender meat that falls apart effortlessly and absorbs maximum flavor.
  • Pineapple Coconut Fusion: Mix unsweetened coconut milk into the glaze for a creamy, tropical dimension. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving to boost textural contrast and island-inspired taste.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe

Pineapple Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Pineapple ginger glazed chicken thighs bring tropical Hawaiian flavors right to your dinner table. Sweet and tangy notes dance with spicy ginger, creating a mouthwatering meal that promises delicious adventure for eager palates.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms) chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

Liquid and Marinade Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (237 milliliters) pineapple juice
  • ½ cup (118 milliliters) soy sauce
  • ¼ cup (59 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons (10 milliliters) sesame oil

Flavor Enhancers and Thickeners:

  • ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar, packed
  • ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 grams) cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) water

Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh pineapple slices
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Ignite the oven to a precise 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect thermal environment for transforming chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece.
  2. Position chicken thighs in a spacious baking vessel, allowing each piece ample room for an even roasting experience.
  3. Craft the glaze by combining pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in a saucepan, orchestrating a flavor symphony over medium heat.
  4. Allow the liquid mixture to dance and bubble gently, reducing and concentrating its aromatic essence for approximately 10 minutes.
  5. Create a cornstarch slurry by whisking water and cornstarch together, then fold this into the simmering sauce to achieve a luxurious, glossy consistency.
  6. Lavishly drench the chicken thighs with the vibrant glaze, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in the glistening mixture.
  7. Transfer the glazed chicken into the preheated oven, allowing it to roast for 50-55 minutes, periodically basting to intensify flavor penetration.
  8. Verify doneness by confirming the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing perfectly cooked meat.
  9. After removing from the oven, let the chicken rest momentarily, allowing internal juices to redistribute and enhance tenderness.
  10. Elevate presentation by adorning with fresh pineapple slivers, emerald green onion ribbons, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Capture the vibrant essence of tropical flavors with this game-changing chicken recipe that transforms ordinary dinners into extraordinary culinary experiences.
  • Marinate chicken thighs overnight in half the glaze for deeper penetration of sweet-spicy pineapple ginger notes, guaranteeing maximum flavor infusion.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 1200 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 41 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Alex Reed

Alex Reed

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Culinary Education​, Food Writing and Blogging​, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Global Cuisine Exploration

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and contemporary cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development. Emphasized hands-on experience in diverse culinary traditions.​

Le Cordon Bleu Paris

  • Program: Diplôme de Cuisine
  • Focus: Advanced instruction in French culinary techniques, including sauce preparation, pâtisserie, and haute cuisine.​

Alex Reed is an inventive chef and food creator with a passion for dishes that balance taste, health, and sustainability. 

Trained at Portland Community College and holding an Advanced Pastry Arts certificate from Oregon Culinary Institute, Alex brings more than 10 years of practical culinary experience to every recipe he develops. 

His background uniquely blends traditional cooking skills with modern, mindful eating principles. As the founder of Beard and Bonnet, Alex creates recipes that encourage readers to cook confidently.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star