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Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken
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Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken with juicy pineapple chunks and a tangy, sweet sauce for a tropical flavor explosion. This easy recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights and family meals, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver a warm, fresh, and colorful dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Produce

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Pantry Staples

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free tamari if needed)
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup water (for the sauce)

Optional Variations

  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick
  • Extra veggies: snap peas, carrots, broccoli
  • Tofu or tempeh as a vegetarian protein substitute
  • Low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, slice the bell peppers, finely chop the garlic and ginger, and cut the fresh pineapple into chunks. Prepare all ingredients in advance to ensure a smooth cooking process.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep it tender and juicy.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the chopped garlic, ginger, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened, allowing the sweet and aromatic flavors to develop.
  4. Add Pineapple and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet and add the pineapple chunks. Pour in the soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and a splash of water. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer so the flavors combine and meld beautifully.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry. Pour this into the skillet while stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the chicken and pineapple with a glossy glaze.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat once the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors.

Notes

  • Prep ahead by chopping all ingredients before cooking to save time and maintain flow.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches to ensure proper browning.
  • Use fresh pineapple for best texture and flavor, though canned pineapple can substitute in a pinch.
  • Adjust sweetness according to your preference by adding more honey or brown sugar if desired.
  • Serve immediately for best flavor and texture retention.

Nutrition

Keywords: pineapple chicken, quick dinner, easy weeknight meal, tropical chicken recipe, gluten-free dinner

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