Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken Recipe

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This Pineapple Chicken is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Juicy chicken is cooked with vibrant bell peppers, caramelized pineapple, and a flavorful sauce, creating a dish that is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience. Pair it with rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
  • Sweet & Savory Balance – A perfect combination of juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and bold sauce.
  • Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and natural sweetness.
  • Versatile – Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps.

Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken

For the Chicken Stir-Fry:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  • 1 tbsp oil – Olive oil or sesame oil for cooking.
  • 2 cups pineapple – Fresh or canned, diced into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 red bell pepper – Diced for a pop of color and crunch.
  • ½ red onion – Chopped for a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 2 garlic cloves – Minced for aromatic depth.
  • 1 tsp grated ginger – Fresh ginger enhances the dish with a warm, slightly spicy note.
  • 1 green onion – Sliced for garnish.
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds – For an extra nutty crunch.
  • Salt and pepper – To taste.

For the Pineapple Sauce:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice – Adds natural sweetness and tanginess.
  • ½ cup chicken broth – Provides depth to the sauce.
  • ¼ cup soy sauce – A savory, umami-rich component.
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar – Enhances the sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Sauce

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch until fully combined.
  2. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the chicken and vegetables.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken & Vegetables

  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Add it to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through.
  3. Add the pineapple, red bell pepper, and red onion to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, allowing the pineapple to slightly caramelize and the peppers to soften.
  4. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Sauce & Simmer

  1. Pour the prepared pineapple sauce into the skillet.
  2. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
  3. Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, remove from heat.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

  1. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
  2. Serve immediately over steamed white rice, brown rice, quinoa, or noodles.
  3. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with:

  • Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
  • Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice – A lighter, low-carb alternative.
  • Stir-Fried Noodles – Toss with rice noodles or lo mein for a heartier meal.
  • Lettuce Wraps – Serve in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and healthy option.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Chicken

  • Use Fresh Pineapple for the Best Flavor – Fresh pineapple caramelizes beautifully, but canned pineapple works well too.
  • Don’t Overcook the Peppers – They should remain slightly crisp for a better texture.
  • For Extra Heat – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
  • Double the Sauce – If you love extra sauce for drizzling over rice, double the sauce ingredients.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze Pineapple Chicken for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Chicken recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that brings together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in perfect harmony. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Try this irresistible Pineapple Chicken for dinner tonight, and enjoy the perfect blend of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tropical pineapple in every bite.

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