Pineapple Chicken Recipe
If there’s one dish that brings a sunny burst of color and sweet-savory flavor to the table, it’s Pineapple Chicken. Imagine juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and crisp bell peppers all mingling in a glossy, tangy sauce—every bite is a tropical getaway. This recipe takes just a handful of classic pantry ingredients and transforms them into something vibrantly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece, Pineapple Chicken is a sure-fire hit that nobody can resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be surprised by how accessible and fuss-free this ingredient list is. Each element brings something special—juiciness, zing, sweetness, or just the right bit of crunch. Assemble everything first, and you’re halfway to a mouthwatering Pineapple Chicken feast.
- Chicken thighs (or breast): Thighs stay extra juicy, but breast works just as well for a leaner option.
- Salt: Just a dash wakes up every ingredient in the dish.
- Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry): Adds a subtle depth and enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
- Pineapple juice: The juicy base for your sauce; opt for 100% juice for the boldest flavor.
- Light soy sauce (or soy sauce): Brings savory, umami richness that rounds out the sweet notes.
- Rice vinegar: Lends a gentle tartness that balances the sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Delivers a deeper, molasses-rich sweetness to accent the pineapple.
- Cornstarch: Used twice—to coat the chicken for crispy edges and to thicken the glossy sauce.
- Peanut oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking, giving a hint of nuttiness (or use a neutral oil if preferred).
- Pineapple slices: Fresh or canned, cut into fun chunks that caramelize beautifully in the pan.
- Bell pepper: A pop of color and crunch—any color works, so pick your favorite.
- Minced ginger: Adds fresh, aromatic zing that lifts the sauce.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken pieces with salt and Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) in a bowl. Let them hang out while you prep the rest of the ingredients. This quick marinade infuses the meat with flavor and ensures that your Pineapple Chicken stays deliciously tender from the very first bite.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: pineapple juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and a tablespoon of cornstarch. Give it a good stir until the sugar dissolves. This golden sauce is the secret to that signature sticky-sweet coating every Pineapple Chicken lover dreams about.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Next, sprinkle a third cup of cornstarch over your marinated chicken and toss everything together until each piece is completely covered. The cornstarch is the key to creating a lightly crispy crust that will soak up all that glorious sauce.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat your skillet and swirl in peanut oil. Shake the extra cornstarch off the chicken as you lay each piece into the pan, making sure not to crowd them. Let them sizzle, undisturbed, for about 2 minutes on each side—or until you get gorgeous caramelized edges. Transfer the golden chicken to a plate so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 5: Sauté Pineapple and Peppers
Wipe out excess oil if needed, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan. Over high heat, add your pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and sprinkle the minced ginger on top. Let the pan work its magic for a minute or two—you want some caramelization on the pineapple and a blush of char on the peppers for maximum flavor.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Give your sauce one more stir to dissolve any settled cornstarch, then pour it into the hot pan. Watch as it bubbles and thickens into a glossy glaze that smells absolutely heavenly.
Step 7: Toss in the Chicken
Finally, return the chicken to the pan, tossing everything so each piece is thoroughly coated in sauce. This last step ensures that the Pineapple Chicken is glistening, sticky, and perfectly balanced in every bite.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Scoop your Pineapple Chicken over steamed rice and get ready for smiles all around the table. Every spoonful packs a sweet-savory punch with a tantalizing tropical twist!
How to Serve Pineapple Chicken
Garnishes
Finish your masterpiece with a sprinkle of chopped scallions, a handful of toasted sesame seeds, or even a few leaves of fresh cilantro. Not only do these add a burst of color, but they also give a little extra crunch, aroma, and visual pizzazz.
Side Dishes
Pineapple Chicken plays wonderfully with classic steamed jasmine or basmati rice, but don’t stop there. Try serving it with stir-fried noodles, a pile of garlicky broccoli, or a crisp Asian-style slaw for a refreshing contrast. Each side becomes a co-star to this showstopper.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, why not scoop Pineapple Chicken into hollowed-out pineapple halves for a tropical, wow-worthy presentation? For a family-style meal, scatter colorful bell pepper strips or snap peas on the platter. Even a few extra pineapple rings on top will bring the “gorgeous” level up a notch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any extras, transfer the cooled Pineapple Chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making for a delicious encore meal.
Freezing
The good news: Pineapple Chicken actually freezes quite well! Place cooled portions in a freezer-friendly container or bag, pressing out as much air as possible. It’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when a craving strikes.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Pineapple Chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring to heat evenly. Try to avoid high heat or overcooking, as you want the chicken to stay tender and the veggies perky.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple for Pineapple Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned pineapple works beautifully—just make sure to use pineapple packed in juice for the freshest taste. Save the juice to use in your sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Simply swap in tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce and make sure your cornstarch is gluten-free certified. Voila—an easy, gluten-free Pineapple Chicken you can share with everyone.
Can I make Pineapple Chicken spicy?
You bet! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced fresh chili when sautéing the veggies. The bit of heat plays so nicely with the sweet pineapple and rich sauce.
How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?
For perfectly crisp bits, let the chicken brown undisturbed in the pan and don’t overload it. Toss it in the sauce just before serving so you keep that delightful texture.
What kind of rice pairs best with Pineapple Chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice is a classic go-to, thanks to its fragrance and soft texture, but any fluffy white or brown rice will soak up that irresistible sauce. You can even serve it with coconut rice for an extra tropical flare!
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of a dinner that bursts with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, you simply have to give Pineapple Chicken a try. Bring a little sunshine to your weeknight and watch this become a new family favorite—one zesty, juicy bite at a time!
Print
Pineapple Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Pineapple Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken pieces in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken thighs (or breast), cut into 1” (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
Sauce:
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Coating and Stir-Fry:
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons peanut oil
- 1 cup pineapple slices, cut into 1” (2.5 cm) chunks
- 1 bell pepper, cut into 1” (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken, salt, and Shaoxing cooking wine in a medium-size bowl, mix well. Let marinate while preparing other ingredients.
- Prepare the Sauce: Combine all the sauce ingredients in a medium-size bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set aside.
- Coat the Chicken: When ready to cook, add cornstarch to the marinated chicken and toss to coat it completely.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the chicken pieces, then transfer to a plate.
- Stir-Fry: Cook pineapples, peppers, and ginger in the skillet. Add the sauce and cook until thickened.
- Combine: Remove from heat, add the cooked chicken to the sauce, and toss to coat.
- Serve: Serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add a dash of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Pineapple Chicken, Chicken Stir-Fry, Asian Chicken Recipe
