Pineapple chicken is a delightful dish that can elevate any dinner table with its sweet and savory profile. What makes it truly special is its versatility. The unique combination of juicy chicken and the tangy sweetness of pineapple makes it a crowd-pleaser.
So, if you’re thinking of ways to complement this dish, consider pairing it with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple side salad. Said simply, it’s the kind of meal that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
What is Pineapple Chicken?
Pineapple chicken is essentially a stir-fry that incorporates chunks of chicken, bell peppers, onions, and, of course, pineapple. As a recipe that’s especially popular in Asian cuisine, it merges the savory flavors of chicken and vegetables with the uplifting sweetness of pineapple.
This recipe is often found in Asian restaurants but can be easily prepared at home. Not only is it quick to throw together, but it allows for a variety of adaptations depending on what ingredients you have.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine taking a bite of tender chicken that’s slightly crispy on the outside, combined with luscious pieces of pineapple that burst with sweet juice. The sauce brings everything together, lending a savory umami flavor while balancing the sweetness with a hint of tang. Each element works together harmoniously. Sweet, savory, and slightly tangy are the hallmarks of this dish.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love pineapple chicken for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make. Second, it has an appealing look, with vibrant colors from the veggies and pineapple. Three, it’s flexible—feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences.
Lastly, it’s nutritious! Packed with protein, antioxidants, and vitamins, this dish doesn’t skimp on health benefits while being utterly delicious.
Ingredients
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of preparation, let’s gather our ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch chunks
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped into small chunks
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced thin or chopped into squares
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (for coating)
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (added near the end for depth)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch chunks
- For the Pineapple Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a twist)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3/4 cup reserved pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for a twist)
This list is straightforward and filled with ingredients that pack flavor and nutrition.
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken breast into 1-inch chunks. This gives them a nice bite-sized texture. Next, chop your red bell pepper and onion as specified. Drain your canned pineapple chunks, ensuring you reserve 3/4 cup of juice. This liquid is vital for creating the perfect sauce later on.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with cornstarch, garlic powder, and a touch of salt and pepper. The cornstarch will give the chicken a delightful crispy outer layer when it’s cooked. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, so the chicken can sear nicely. Cook for about 5–6 minutes or until golden brown. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften and there’s a lovely aroma in the air.
Step 5: Add the Pineapple
Now, it’s time to introduce the star of the show: the pineapple! Add in the pineapple chunks and let everything sauté together for about 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the fruit slightly and enhances the flavors.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. This mixture is where the magic happens. Once everything is well combined, pour it into the skillet over the chicken and veggies. Stir gently and let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening nicely.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir to coat each piece in that luscious sauce. Drizzle toasted sesame oil over the top for an added depth of flavor. Cook everything together for another minute to ensure the chicken is heated through and coated well.
Step 8: Serve
As a final touch, garnish your pineapple chicken with sliced green onions. Serve warm over jasmine rice or with a side of your choice. Enjoy!
Tips On Making Pineapple Chicken
To ensure your pineapple chicken reaches maximum deliciousness, consider these tips:
- Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan ensures a nice sear on the chicken, making it more flavorful and texturally appealing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: This is crucial. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden crust.
- Use Fresh Pineapple When Possible: If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh pineapple provides a bright flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate your chicken in soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to mix things up based on your family’s preferences.
Nutrition Information
Pineapple chicken is a lighter option compared to many takeout meals. Here’s a quick overview:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 15 grams (from pineapple and honey)
This dish packs a punch in protein while keeping calories in check, making it a great option for those looking to eat healthy.
How Do You Store This Pineapple Chicken?
Leftover pineapple chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner later in the week. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or additional pineapple juice to refresh the sauce.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Pineapple Chicken?
If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary needs, here are some substitutes:
- Turkey Breast: A leaner alternative that can replace chicken.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press it to remove excess water and cut it into cubes.
- Coconut Aminos: Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free option that is slightly sweeter.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch.
- Honey Substitute: If you’re watching sugar intake, use sugar-free syrup or a few drops of stevia for sweetness.
Conclusion
In the pursuit of quick, delicious meals that don’t skimp on flavor, pineapple chicken stands out as a winning dish. It seamlessly blends savory and sweet while allowing plenty of room for personal touches. From the simplicity of preparation to its appealing taste, you can see why it’s become a staple in many households. So, why not give it a try? You might just discover it’s a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Grab those ingredients and get cooking; your taste buds will thank you!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Strawberry Chamomile Naked Cake
- Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes Recipe
- One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Pineapple Chicken – Hearty Food Ideas
Description
Pineapple chicken is a delightful dish that can elevate any dinner table with its sweet and savory profile. What makes it truly special is its versatility. The unique combination of juicy chicken and the tangy sweetness of pineapple makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
For the Pineapple Sauce:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Start by dicing the chicken breast into 1-inch chunks. This gives them a nice bite-sized texture. Next, chop your red bell pepper and onion as specified. Drain your canned pineapple chunks, ensuring you reserve 3/4 cup of juice. This liquid is vital for creating the perfect sauce later on.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
-
In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with cornstarch, garlic powder, and a touch of salt and pepper. The cornstarch will give the chicken a delightful crispy outer layer when it's cooked. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
-
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, so the chicken can sear nicely. Cook for about 5–6 minutes or until golden brown. Stir occasionally so it doesn't burn. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
-
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften and there’s a lovely aroma in the air.
Step 5: Add the Pineapple
-
Now, it’s time to introduce the star of the show: the pineapple! Add in the pineapple chunks and let everything sauté together for about 2 minutes. This step caramelizes the fruit slightly and enhances the flavors.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
-
In a bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. This mixture is where the magic happens. Once everything is well combined, pour it into the skillet over the chicken and veggies. Stir gently and let this simmer for about 2–3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening nicely.
Step 7: Combine Everything
-
Add the seared chicken back into the skillet. Stir to coat each piece in that luscious sauce. Drizzle toasted sesame oil over the top for an added depth of flavor. Cook everything together for another minute to ensure the chicken is heated through and coated well.
-
Step 8: Serve
-
As a final touch, garnish your pineapple chicken with sliced green onions. Serve warm over jasmine rice or with a side of your choice. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 15g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Preheat Your Pan: A hot pan ensures a nice sear on the chicken, making it more flavorful and texturally appealing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: This is crucial. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden crust.
- Use Fresh Pineapple When Possible: If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh pineapple provides a bright flavor that's hard to beat.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate your chicken in soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to mix things up based on your family’s preferences.
