How to Make Sweet & Sticky Pineapple Bourbon Chicken – A Dinner Winner!

When you want a dinner that wows with flavor and aroma, Sweet & Sticky Pineapple Bourbon Chicken delivers every time. Juicy chicken is coated in a glossy sauce that balances the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the warm, oaky notes of bourbon. Each bite bursts with tangy, savory, and caramelized richness, making it a true crowd-pleaser. The sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, thanks to a slow simmer that thickens it to perfection. This recipe uses professional techniques to ensure tender meat and a sauce that tastes like it simmered for hours — yet it’s ready in under 40 minutes. Dinner perfection awaits.

Overview of Sweet & Sticky Pineapple Bourbon Chicken

This dish blends tropical and Southern-inspired flavors into one irresistible meal. Boneless chicken is seared until golden, locking in its juices before being coated in a sauce made from pineapple juice, bourbon, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. The bourbon adds complexity without overwhelming the sweetness, while a touch of vinegar keeps the flavors balanced. The sauce is cooked in the same pan as the chicken, ensuring every drop is infused with savory depth. The end result? Sticky, sweet, tangy chicken that works equally well over rice, noodles, or grilled vegetables. It’s bold yet approachable — and endlessly crave-worthy.

Ingredients with Sourcing Tips

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs are juicier and more forgiving; breasts are leaner. Choose air-chilled, free-range chicken for optimal texture.
• 1 tsp salt – Fine sea salt distributes evenly.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Freshly ground for aroma.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch – Helps sear chicken with a light crust and thickens the sauce later.
• 2 tbsp neutral oil – Canola or grapeseed works best for high heat.

For the Pineapple Bourbon Sauce:

• 1 cup pineapple juice – Freshly juiced or 100% pure juice (no added sugar).
• ½ cup bourbon – A smooth, mid-range bourbon works best; avoid overly smoky or peaty varieties.
• ⅓ cup brown sugar – Light brown sugar gives caramel notes without overpowering sweetness.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce – Low-sodium lets you control saltiness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh only; jarred can taste bitter.
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated – Adds bright heat to balance sweetness.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Balances the sauce with acidity.
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional) – For a gentle heat.
• 1 cup pineapple chunks – Fresh or canned in juice, not syrup.
• 2 green onions, sliced – For garnish.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional) – Adds texture and visual appeal.

How to Makes Sweet & Sticky Pineapple Bourbon Chicken

1. Sear First, Sauce Later – Searing chicken before saucing creates flavor from caramelization and locks in juices.
2. Deglazing with Bourbon – Pour bourbon into the hot pan to lift browned bits; alcohol will cook off, leaving pure flavor.
3. Layered Sweetness – Use both juice and chunks of pineapple for depth in sweetness and texture.
4. Simmer for Stickiness – Reducing the sauce slowly concentrates flavors and creates that signature glossy finish.
5. Cornstarch Coating – Lightly dusting chicken before searing helps thicken the sauce naturally later.
6. Balance the Flavors – Add vinegar or more soy at the end if the sauce feels too sweet.
7. Rest Before Serving – Let chicken sit in sauce for 2 minutes off heat to absorb flavor without overcooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Chicken: Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper. Lightly coat with cornstarch.
2. Sear Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Sauce Base: Lower heat to medium. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Bourbon: Carefully pour in bourbon; simmer 1–2 minutes to cook off alcohol.
5. Add Flavor Layers: Stir in pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Incorporate Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks; simmer sauce 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Return Chicken: Place chicken back in the pan; spoon sauce over to coat. Simmer 3–4 minutes until sauce is glossy and chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C).
8. Finish & Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving) (approximate)

• Calories: 360 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 720mg

Serving of Sweet & Sticky Pineapple Bourbon Chicken

This sweet and sticky chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to echo the tropical flavors. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or stir-fried vegetables. The sauce also works wonderfully over soba noodles or rice vermicelli for an Asian-inspired twist. A crisp cucumber salad or lightly dressed slaw balances the richness with freshness. For a colorful plate, add steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy on the side. If serving for a crowd, plate the chicken on a large platter with extra pineapple chunks and green onions for an impressive presentation. Serve hot for maximum flavor impact.

Pro Chef Notes & Variations

• Bourbon-Free Version: Replace bourbon with extra pineapple juice and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
• Extra Heat: Add more chili flakes or diced fresh chili for a spicier kick.
• Grilled Version: Grill chicken instead of pan-searing, then toss in sauce for a smoky note.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh; follow same cooking method.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare sauce separately and store; cook chicken fresh for best texture.
• Extra Sticky Sauce: Reduce sauce for an additional 2–3 minutes before adding chicken back in.
• Tropical Upgrade: Add diced mango along with pineapple for an extra layer of sweetness.

Final Thought

Sweet & Sticky Pineapple Bourbon Chicken is proof that bold flavors don’t require complicated techniques. By balancing sweetness, acidity, and savory depth — and using professional cooking methods — you can create a restaurant-worthy dish in under 40 minutes. This is the kind of recipe that turns weeknight dinners into something special, while still being easy enough for beginners to master. The bourbon adds complexity without overpowering, and the pineapple brings brightness to every bite. Once you’ve tried it, this dish will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation — a true “dinner winner” every single time.