The Best Homemade Pineapple Chicken Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Pineapple Chicken recipe is a perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s quick, easy, and sure to become a family favorite. You’ll love how the juicy pineapple adds a burst of freshness to every bite. The tender chicken is perfectly seasoned and pairs wonderfully with the tangy-sweet sauce. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is a breeze!
Recipe
Pineapple chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors for a mouthwatering meal. This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ginger, minced
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to coat the chicken.
- Add pineapple chunks and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Notes:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables.
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
Asian-inspired
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
This Pineapple Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Below is the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 16 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing pineapple chicken with fluffy jasmine rice because it soaks up the sweet and tangy sauce perfectly. For a fresh twist, I often add a crunchy cucumber salad or steamed broccoli to balance the flavors. Don’t forget a side of warm garlic bread—it’s a simple combo that never disappoints!
Side Dish Options
Pairing the perfect side dish with pineapple chicken can really bring the meal together, and I’ve got some great ideas to share. Steamed jasmine rice is my go-to—its light, fluffy texture soaks up the sauce beautifully. For something fresh, I love a simple cucumber salad with a tangy vinegar dressing. Roasted veggies, like broccoli or carrots, add a nice crunch and balance the sweetness. If I’m in the mood for noodles, stir-fried lo mein works wonders. Don’t forget a side of garlic butter sautéed green beans—they’re quick, flavorful, and make the meal feel complete.
Complementary Flavors
Though pineapple chicken has a sweet and tangy kick, finding complementary flavors can turn it from good to unforgettable. I love pairing it with something fresh, like a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. The crunch balances the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, jasmine rice or coconut rice soak up all that saucy goodness. Sweet-and-sour dishes pair well with savory options—think garlicky green beans or sautéed zucchini. Sometimes, I add a cool mango salsa for a tropical twist. Experimenting with flavors keeps it exciting, and every bite feels like a little adventure. You’ll find your favorite combinations in no time!
