Description
If you’re craving a weeknight dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and just a bit out of the ordinary, this Chicken and Pineapple recipe will hit the spot. Juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet-tart pineapple come together in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping lunch for the week, this dish delivers big flavor without the fuss. Serve it over jasmine rice for a comforting, colorful meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, adaptable for different diets, and tastes just as good the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
- 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
2. For the sauce:
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch for at least 15 minutes.
- In a small saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients (except the cornstarch slurry). Bring to a simmer. Stir in the slurry and cook until thickened. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a skillet. Sear the chicken in batches until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté bell peppers and pineapple chunks until slightly caramelized.
- Return chicken to the pan, pour over the sauce, and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
- Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- For extra heat, add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different spin.
- Double the sauce if you like extra to pour over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 78mg