Chicken Pineapple Recipe

Sweet, savory, and packed with tropical flavor, this Chicken Pineapple Recipe is a dish you’ll want to make over and over again. The combination of juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple creates the perfect balance of sweet and savory, while the sauce ties everything together with a rich, tangy depth.

This dish is a staple in many Asian and Hawaiian cuisines, often appearing in stir-fries, curries, and grilled dishes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—minimal ingredients, easy steps, and maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this one ticks all the boxes.

Keep reading to learn how to make this vibrant, flavor-packed dish at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this Chicken Pineapple Recipe, but here’s what makes it truly special:

First, the contrast of flavors is unbeatable. The natural sweetness of pineapple balances the umami-rich chicken, while the sauce—often a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey—adds depth and richness.

Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can make it as a stir-fry, a grilled dish, or even in a slow cooker. It pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even inside a warm tortilla for a tropical-inspired taco.

Lastly, it’s an easy dish to customize. Want more heat? Add some chili flakes. Need extra crunch? Toss in some cashews or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless, making this a go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks.

Ingredients for Chicken Pineapple Recipe

For the best flavor, always opt for fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Cornstarch – Helps achieve a light, crispy texture.
• Salt & black pepper – Enhances the overall taste.

For the Sauce:

• Soy sauce – The umami backbone of the dish.
• Honey or brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Garlic & ginger – Freshly minced for a bold, aromatic base.
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar – Gives the sauce a bit of tang.
• Sesame oil – Adds depth and a slightly nutty flavor.
• Chicken broth – Helps create a luscious, slightly thickened sauce.
• Cornstarch slurry – Thickens the sauce for that glossy restaurant-style finish.

For the Pineapple & Vegetables:

• Fresh pineapple chunks – Caramelizes beautifully and adds natural sweetness.
• Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) – Adds crunch and color.
• Onions – Brings mild sweetness to the dish.

For Garnish (Optional but Recommended):

• Sesame seeds – For extra texture and a toasty flavor.
• Green onions – Adds a fresh, slightly sharp contrast.

How Much Time Will You Need?

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make This Chicken Pineapple Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, toss them with salt, black pepper, and cornstarch. This step ensures a lightly crispy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step builds the base flavor of the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Pineapple & Vegetables

Add the pineapple chunks and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and slightly caramelize. This enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chicken broth, and cornstarch slurry. Pour the sauce into the pan and stir well. Let it simmer for a minute or two until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it with the sauce and vegetables. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken absorbs all the flavors.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for a final touch. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Substitutions

• Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef.
• Pineapple Options: Fresh pineapple is best, but canned pineapple (drained) works too.
• Soy Sauce Substitute: Use tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium option.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Pineapple Recipe

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – The perfect fluffy base to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
2. Garlic Butter Noodles – A buttery, garlicky pasta that complements the sweet-savory sauce beautifully.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing, slightly tangy side to balance out the richness of the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a key role in elevating the appeal of this Chicken Pineapple Recipe. Here are a few tips to make it look as good as it tastes:

• Use a Wide, Shallow Bowl: Serving this dish in a shallow bowl or a large plate allows the vibrant pineapple, peppers, and golden-brown chicken to stand out.
• Garnish for Extra Color: Sprinkle sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions on top for a finishing touch. A few red pepper flakes can add visual appeal and a touch of heat.
• Pair with the Right Side: Serve over a bed of steaming jasmine rice, coconut rice, or noodles. If using rice, consider shaping it into a neat mound before placing the chicken on top.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Want to take this dish to the next level? Try these expert tips:

• Caramelize the Pineapple: Instead of adding fresh pineapple directly to the pan, let it sear for a few extra minutes until slightly golden. This deepens the sweetness and enhances the tropical flavor.
• Marinate the Chicken: For even juicier chicken, marinate it for 20-30 minutes in a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches ensures the chicken gets a nice sear instead of steaming.
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch slurry. If you want a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cornstarch.
• Make It Spicy: Add a finely chopped red chili or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the best results, watch out for these common pitfalls:

• Using Canned Pineapple with Syrup: If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain and rinse it to avoid an overly sweet dish. Fresh pineapple works best.
• Skipping the Cornstarch on the Chicken: The cornstarch helps create a light crispiness that holds the sauce better. Without it, the chicken may turn out too soft.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Remove it from the pan once it’s golden brown and fully cooked inside.
• Not Letting the Sauce Thicken Properly: The sauce should simmer until slightly thickened before adding the chicken back. If it’s too runny, add more cornstarch slurry.

How to Store It

This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish (without rice) for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pan to prevent excess moisture.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.

3. What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?

Swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe gluten-free.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Cooked chicken and pineapple can also be refrigerated separately, then reheated and combined just before serving.

5. How can I make this dish healthier?

For a lighter version, use low-sodium soy sauce, reduce the sweetener, and cook with minimal oil. You can also serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

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