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Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken
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A vibrant Pineapple Chicken recipe that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors all cooked in one skillet. Juicy chicken pieces simmer with fresh pineapple chunks in a sticky, flavorful sauce that is quick, easy, and bursting with tropical flair. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or salads.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Produce

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

Sauce Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp cold water (for cornstarch slurry)

Cooking Essentials

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chop fresh pineapple into chunks. Mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the green onions to have all ingredients ready for smooth cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on the outside but not fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes, to lock in flavor and texture.
  3. Add Aromatics: Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to build the sauce’s flavor base.
  4. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Whisk together soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar or lime juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the chicken and stir well to coat evenly.
  5. Add Pineapple and Thicken: Add pineapple chunks to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry and pour it into the pan. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and coats each piece beautifully.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Turn off the heat and stir in sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast. Serve hot with your preferred sides.

Notes

  • Use high heat when searing to caramelize the chicken for deeper flavor.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary to maintain a golden crust.
  • Fresh pineapple is preferred over canned for better texture and natural sweetness.
  • Adjust the sweetness and acidity by tasting the sauce before serving and adding more honey or vinegar as desired.
  • Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
  • For a spicy kick, add chili paste, fresh jalapeños, or additional red pepper flakes.
  • To keep it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Consider serving inside hollowed-out pineapple halves for a festive presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pineapple Chicken, one pan dinner, sweet and tangy chicken, easy chicken recipe, tropical chicken, family friendly dinner, gluten free dinner

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/pineapple-chicken/