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Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken
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Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant, sweet-savory dish combining tender chicken pieces with juicy pineapple chunks and a flavorful tangy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe balances tropical sweetness with savory umami, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With minimal ingredients and versatile serving options, this family-friendly meal is sure to delight every palate.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Produce

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Sauces and Condiments

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice

Other Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder/potato starch as a substitute)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable or oil of choice (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Lightly season with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
  4. Add Pineapple and Sauce Ingredients: Pour in fresh pineapple chunks, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and rice vinegar or lime juice. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauce to meld and pineapple to warm through.
  5. Thicken the Sauce and Combine: Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables and pineapple. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the dish just before serving to add fresh color and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh pineapple for best sweetness and texture, although canned pineapple can be used if excess juice is pressed out.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken to ensure even browning; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust honey or sugar levels according to your preference.
  • Prepare the sauce mixture ahead of time to speed up cooking.
  • Let the chicken rest packed in the sauce off heat for a few minutes to deepen flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pineapple Chicken, sweet and savory chicken, quick dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free Asian recipe, tropical chicken dish

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