Pineapple Chicken

Name: Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons vegetable oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 red bell pepper, seeded, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 3/4 cup pineapple juice; 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth; 1/3 cup hoisin sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 2 teaspoons sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon sliced green onions; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 6, 2025

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Pineapple Chicken combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. It’s the kind of recipe that brightens up any weeknight dinner and makes it feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, this dish will surely impress. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll find yourself enjoying not just the cooking process but also the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen.

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So, let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking! This is more than just a meal; it’s about enjoying the vibrant flavors and the wonderful blend of textures. You’ll see how quickly you can prepare something truly special that brings a taste of the tropics right to your table. Now, let’s take a closer look at why you’ll absolutely love this Pineapple Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken

Discover the tropical fusion of flavors as juicy chicken melds with sweet pineapple in this delightful dish. A simple stir-fry recipe, Pineapple Chicken promises to deliver comfort food with an exotic twist. It’s a vibrant addition to your weeknight meals and sure to impress friends and family.

What is Pineapple Chicken?

Pineapple Chicken is a flavorful stir-fry combining tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful vegetables in a sweet and savory sauce. This Chinese-inspired dish is typically served over rice, making it a filling and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken

2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red bell pepper, seeded, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
3/4 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth
1/3 cup hoisin sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon sliced green onions
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing Your Pineapple Chicken

Heat the Oil

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. This helps create a nice sizzle when you add your chicken, sealing in the flavors.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Then add them to the heated pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are cooked through. You want them golden brown and fragrant—this is where the magic begins!

Add Vegetables and Pineapple

Next, incorporate the red bell pepper and pineapple chunks into the pan. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. The bright colors and sweet aroma will make you eager for the next step.

Sauté Garlic and Ginger

Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. These ingredients play a key role, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Pineapple Chicken.

Whisk the Sauce Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, chicken broth, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar. Whisk until the mixture is well-blended. This sauce is the heart of your dish, balancing sweetness and umami.

Combine Sauce and Stir

Pour the sauce into the pan and bring it to a simmer, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated. The colors and smells will bring a smile to your face as it all comes together.

Thicken the Sauce

Mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a separate bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pan and bring to a boil. Cook for 1 minute or until the sauce thickens. You’ll notice it transforming into a glossy coating that makes each bite irresistible.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the finished dish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving over rice. This final touch not only adds color but also elevates the entire dish, making it look as gorgeous as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve prepared your Pineapple Chicken, let’s think about some great ways to serve it.

Serve it over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal. The rice absorbs the flavors really well, making every bite comforting.
Accompany with a side of stir-fried vegetables for added color and nutrition. Think snap peas or broccoli, adding a crunch that complements the chicken and pineapple beautifully.

Tips for Success

To make your Pineapple Chicken even better, here are some tips:

For added texture, consider adding cashews or bell peppers in different colors. This not only enhances flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. If you like it sweeter, don’t hesitate to add a little extra.

Variations

Your Pineapple Chicken experience can be personalized further. Here are a couple of ideas:

Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. This makes the dish versatile, catering to different tastes.
Experiment with different vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to personalize the dish. Each vegetable brings its own unique touch!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), follow these storage tips:

Store any leftover Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a great quick lunch option!
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. Keeping it juicy is key!

Pairing Ideas

For a complete meal, consider these pairing ideas:

Pair with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal. They make for great appetizers or snacks.
Cool down the heat with a refreshing cucumber salad on the side. This adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may need less cooking time due to their leaner nature.

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Pineapple Chicken reheats well and can be made in advance for quick meals throughout the week.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced chilies to the sauce for some heat. This way, you can customize the spice level to your taste.

4. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple will add a brighter flavor to the dish, making it even more refreshing.

5. What should I do with leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days and enjoy it as a quick lunch or snack.

Pineapple Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience rich in flavor and vibrant in color. The sweet and savory sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and fresh pineapple, offering a delicious and comforting dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe can easily adapt to your needs and tastes, inviting everyone to the table for a delightful culinary adventure. Enjoy the balancing act of flavors and the joy it brings!

More Easy Lunch & Dinner ideas Recipes:

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Pineapple Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken

What is Pineapple Chicken?

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken