Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

Looking for a healthy, flavorful dinner idea? This Pineapple Chicken recipe offers the perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Featuring a rich pineapple sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and honey, this dish is ideal for anyone craving an Asian-inspired meal at home. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for the family, this simple chicken recipe will be a favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a versatile dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients
For the Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Vegetables:

• 2 (8-ounce) cans pineapple tidbits or chunks, drained (reserve 3/4 cup juice for the sauce)
• 1/2 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 medium onion, sliced or cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce:

• 3/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapple, add water if needed to make 3/4 cup)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

---

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:
2. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with garlic powder and a pinch of pepper. Add cornstarch and mix until evenly coated.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add half the chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F). Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the second batch, adding another tablespoon of oil if needed.

Cook the Vegetables:
4. If the skillet is dry, add a small splash of oil. Add pineapple chunks and cook for 1 minute without stirring to caramelize slightly.
5. Add bell peppers and onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp.

Combine and Serve:
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pineapple chicken dish combines the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, creating a meal that’s quick, versatile, and restaurant-worthy.

---

Tips

• Cornstarch Coating: Helps create a golden crust on the chicken and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, let it bubble a bit longer; for a thinner sauce, add a splash of water.
• Cooking in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu.
• Vegetables: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more variety.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

---

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Blend fresh pineapple to make juice and use chunks for the dish.

How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

---

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.