Combine tender chicken, a sweet marinade, and chunks of juicy pineapple for a meal you’ll want to eat again and again.
One thing I like about cooking chicken is that there is almost no limit to the things you can do with it. It’s possible to think outside the box, expand your horizons, and get creative with chicken. That’s exactly what I did with this recipe for pineapple chicken, which is now a dish I come back to again and again. The recipe is as simple as letting the chicken marinate in a pineapple-infused sauce for 10 minutes, cooking it, and then throwing in pieces of pineapple and red pepper. You don’t have to be a skilled chef to pull it off.
Of course, pineapple chicken is also a tasty dish that’s unique from other chicken recipes I’ve had. It starts with the marinade, which is sweet and savory with both pineapple juice and soy sauce, as well as common aromatics. That marinade gives the chicken a sweet and tangy taste. You get even more sweetness from the chunks of pineapple that are cooked alongside the chicken. Cooking pineapple helps to release some of its juices, which blend with the marinade to enhance the overall dish, making it burst with vibrant taste.
Is Pineapple Chicken Healthy?
Pineapple chicken is a balanced dish, featuring a variety of ingredients that support a well-rounded diet. The pineapple, pineapple juice, and bell pepper provide natural sweetness, while the chicken breast serves as a lean source of protein. Additionally, the dish can be adapted for various dietary needs. For those monitoring their sodium intake, you could swap out the low-sodium soy sauce and use coconut aminos instead. Or to make it vegan, use tofu instead of chicken and replace the honey with maple syrup.
The History Of Pineapple In Cooking
Pineapple has long been celebrated as a versatile ingredient in global cuisine. Originally native to South America, the fruit became a symbol of hospitality and luxury when introduced to Europe in the 15th century. Over time, pineapple found its way into savory dishes, blending its natural sweetness with meats, rice, and even spicy ingredients.
In Asian and Polynesian cuisines, pineapple is often paired with proteins like chicken or pork to create a harmonious balance of flavors. Pineapple chicken, specifically, draws inspiration from these traditions, using the fruit to quickly tenderize meat and add a subtle complexity to marinades. This recipe continues that tradition, offering a simple yet meaningful way to explore the cultural significance of pineapple while enjoying a modern twist on a classic pairing.
How to make ahead and store
Let the pineapple chicken cool to room temperature before storing. Place in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
A bed of rice is the perfect complement to pineapple chicken. I recommend a simple serving of Steamed Rice or perhaps some Coconut Rice. A side dish of Steamed Broccoli is also a great idea for pineapple chicken. If you want another side dish, you might want to try Oven-Roasted Vegetables or a Coconut Milk Quinoa Fruit Salad.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 teaspoons garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons ginger minced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup pineapple cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, reserving marinade, and cook until browned.
- Add bell pepper and pineapple chunks and cook for another 5 minutes. Mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the reserved marinade. Pour this mixture into the skillet and add the vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle on red pepper flakes and green onions when serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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