Pineapple Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the sweet and savory balance of Pineapple Chicken to bring a burst of sunshine to your dinner table! This quick, vibrant dish features juicy chicken breast, succulent pineapple chunks, and a luscious glaze that ties it all together in just about 20 minutes. It’s my go-to when I crave something a little tropical without a ton of fuss.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pineapple Chicken recipe keeps things simple yet oh-so-flavorful. Each ingredient plays a starring role—from the golden sear on the chicken to the sweet pop of pineapple, you’ll be amazed how every bite is layered with taste and texture!

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves: Their mild flavor and tender texture make the perfect canvas for the bold pineapple glaze.
• All-Purpose Flour: Just a dusting helps give the chicken a light crust for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Canola Oil: It has a high smoke point, making it great for browning without overpowering the other flavors.
• Unsweetened Pineapple Chunks: Canned pineapple is super convenient and adds bursts of sweetness—don’t forget to save some juice for the sauce!
• Cornstarch: This is the secret to that glossy, thickened sauce that clings to every bite.
• Honey: A touch of natural sweetness complements the pineapple and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully.
• Reduced-Sodium Teriyaki or Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth and balances the sweetness, without making things too salty.
• Pepper: Just a pinch brings a gentle heat and rounds out the flavors.
• Hot Cooked Rice: The perfect base to soak up every drop of that fabulous glaze.
• Optional: Thinly Sliced Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: For a fresh crunch and a finishing touch of flair!

Variations

One of the best parts of Pineapple Chicken? You can easily make it your own! Feel free to mix things up based on what’s already in your fridge, any special dietary needs, or simply your latest culinary cravings.

• Swap in Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, though cook time may be a minute or two longer.
• Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for color and crunch—and an all-in-one meal.
• Go Spicy: Add a dash of sriracha or some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and swap the soy sauce for tamari.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve your Pineapple Chicken over cauliflower rice or steamed greens instead of regular rice.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Flatten and Dredge the Chicken

Start by flattening the chicken breasts to about 1/4-inch thickness. Doing this helps each piece cook evenly and stay juicy. Give them a quick dusting in flour—this creates a gorgeous, light crust that locks in the chicken’s moisture.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

Heat the canola oil over medium heat in a roomy skillet. Brown the floured chicken on both sides—about 3 to 5 minutes per side, until golden and the juices run clear. Remove and keep the chicken warm; it’s getting a little rest before the grand finale.

Step 3: Build That Sweet & Savory Sauce

Drain your pineapple chunks, but don’t toss all that liquid! Reserve 1/4 cup of the juice and whisk it with the cornstarch until totally smooth. Pour this mixture into the hot skillet, then add the honey, soy or teriyaki sauce, and a dash of pepper. Stir as it bubbles—within 30 seconds, you’ll have a glossy, thick sauce begging for pineapple.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Add the pineapple chunks and the chicken back to the skillet. Let everything heat through, coating each piece in that irresistible glaze. You’ll notice the sauce clinging beautifully to the chicken, and bright little jewels of pineapple peeking out. Serve the whole glorious mixture over hot rice!

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t skip the finishing touches! A generous sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions adds a crisp punch, while a dash of toasted sesame seeds brings earthiness and a bit of crunch. If you love color, thin strips of red chili or extra pineapple tidbits look gorgeous on top.

Side Dishes

My favorite way to serve Pineapple Chicken is over a steaming bowl of jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up all the extra sauce. For a lighter meal, try it over brown rice, quinoa, or even a bed of lightly stir-fried greens like bok choy or snap peas.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Pineapple Chicken in hollowed-out pineapple halves—especially impressive for parties or family nights! Or try skewering chunks of chicken and pineapple on toothpicks for an appetizer version everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making the next meal even more delicious!

Freezing

Pineapple Chicken freezes quite well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months—just defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the chicken and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat until hot, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick, vibrant, and sure to make everyone at the table happy, Pineapple Chicken is your answer. It’s the perfect weeknight pick-me-up, bursting with fresh flavors and fun to customize. Give it a try and let your kitchen be filled with sweet, savory magic!

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