Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken

from savortales.com
1 servings

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory flavors, and this Pineapple Chicken recipe is a perfect example of that harmony. It’s a dish that brings together tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a flavorful sauce that’s just the right balance of sweet and tangy. This recipe is a family favorite, especially during the warmer months when fresh pineapples are in season. However, it’s also a great way to bring a bit of sunshine into your kitchen any time of the year. The tropical flavors remind me of summer cookouts, backyard gatherings, and those delicious takeout-style meals that always hit the spot. If you love quick and easy dinners that don’t skimp on flavor, you’re going to love this Pineapple Chicken. It’s simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and comes together in just one pan—perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    Step 1: Coat and Cook the Chicken

  2. 2

    Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces in cornstarch. This helps create a light, crispy coating when you cook the chicken, giving it that restaurant-style texture.

  3. 3

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

  4. 4

    Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  5. 5

    In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the chopped bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften and the pineapple caramelizes slightly.

  6. 6

    Step 3: Make the Sauce

  7. 7

    In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce into the pan with the veggies and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

  8. 8

    Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

  9. 9

    Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables beautifully.

  10. 10

    Step 5: Combine Everything

  11. 11

    Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the sauce. Let it cook for another minute so the flavors can meld.

  12. 12

    Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

  13. 13

    Serve the Pineapple Chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.