Description
This Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a glossy caramelized sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite. One bite will transport you to a tropical paradise!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sweet and Tangy Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with water to create a slurry)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5-6 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken It Up: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 2 minutes).
- Bring It All Together: Add the cooked chicken and pineapple chunks back to the skillet. Toss everything in the sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through and well coated.
- Serve & Garnish: Plate the pineapple chicken over steamed rice and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in pineapple juice and soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant taste, but canned pineapple works well too.
- Adjust the sweetness by reducing the brown sugar or adding a splash of vinegar for more tang.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian, Tropical