Description
Sweet, savory, and just a little tropical, this chicken and pineapple recipe brings together juicy marinated chicken, golden caramelized pineapple, and a sticky soy-ginger glaze for a weeknight meal that feels like a treat. It’s quick enough for busy nights but bold enough for company. Serve over coconut rice or noodles for a full, satisfying dish with layers of flavor and color. The best part? It gets better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. This is your go-to recipe when you want something easy, wholesome, and exciting on the dinner table.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
2 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or avocado oil)
2 tbsp chopped cilantro, for garnish
1–2 green onions, sliced for garnish
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
For the Marinade/Sauce:
¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
2 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
1 tbsp lime juice or rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, lime juice, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Reserve ½ cup of this marinade in a separate bowl for the sauce.
- Add chicken to the remaining marinade and let it sit for 30 minutes to overnight.
- Heat oil in a large skillet. Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry slightly, and sear in batches until cooked through. Set aside.
- Add more oil if needed. Sear pineapple chunks until caramelized, 2–3 minutes per side.
- Add bell pepper and onions, cooking until tender-crisp.
- Pour in reserved marinade and bring to a simmer. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra char, grill chicken and pineapple instead of pan-searing.
Marinating overnight enhances flavor.
Swap in tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Add chopped peanuts or cashews for crunch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop (or grill)
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx)
- Calories: 390