There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory flavors in a dish. Pineapple chicken is the perfect example of this harmony—tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. This dish is a weeknight dinner lifesaver, coming together in just under 30 minutes while still tasting like a restaurant-quality meal.

Whether you’re looking for a new family favorite or simply want to switch up your usual chicken recipes, this pineapple chicken is sure to impress. The natural sweetness of pineapple perfectly balances the savory umami flavors of soy sauce and garlic, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Serve it over rice or alongside steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Meal – Fewer dishes to clean up, which means less time spent in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly – The sweet and tangy sauce appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, vitamins from pineapple, and simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Versatile – Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the pan. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry—this will help thicken the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken

Return the skillet to the heat and pour in the sauce mixture. Let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Once bubbling, add the cornstarch slurry and stir well. The sauce will begin to thicken within a minute or two.

Step 5: Add the Pineapple and Chicken

Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the pineapple chunks. Stir everything together to coat the chicken in the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor. Serve the pineapple chicken hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh or Canned Pineapple – Fresh pineapple gives a brighter, more natural sweetness, but canned works just as well (just make sure it’s in juice, not syrup).
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure it browns properly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey slightly or add a splash of lime juice for balance.
• Spice it Up – If you love a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
• Make it a Meal – Serve with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Dairy-Free

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~6g
• Fiber: ~2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cut the chicken in advance to save time. Cook everything fresh when ready to serve for the best taste and texture.

What’s the Best Way to Store and Reheat Pineapple Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with tofu or a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a plant-based version.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat – Warm on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this pineapple chicken, you might also love:

• Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa
• One-Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos
• Pineapple Chicken and Rice – A Sweet and Savory Delight
• Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Conclusion

This pineapple chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together bold flavors in a simple, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for something new to try, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

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