Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken

Introduction

Pineapple Chicken is a delicious dish that combines savory chicken with sweet pineapple. This vibrant meal is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or any casual gathering, Pineapple Chicken is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Pineapple Chicken is a fantastic choice because it brings together the best of both worlds: juicy chicken and the tropical sweetness of pineapple. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you can whip up a tasty meal that’s healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to add some variety to your dinner routine!

How to Make Pineapple Chicken

Making Pineapple Chicken is simple and quick. Just follow these easy steps to create a tasty dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• ½ tsp grated fresh ginger (or ¼ tsp ground ginger)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until they are lightly browned and almost cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the onion and red bell pepper until they start to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute, letting those flavors bloom.
4. Stir in the pineapple chunks and return the chicken to the pan, mixing everything together.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), and the cornstarch slurry. Pour this mixture into the pan, coating everything nicely.
6. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and everything is evenly coated, about 2 minutes. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Once it’s ready, remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch.
8. Serve hot over steamed rice or rice noodles—whatever your heart desires!

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken shines when served hot. Pair it with steamed rice or rice noodles for a complete meal. You can also accompany it with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.

How to Store Pineapple Chicken

If you have leftover Pineapple Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Tips to Make Pineapple Chicken

• For an extra kick, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking.
• If you like it sweeter, add more honey or brown sugar to the sauce.
• Consider using fresh pineapple for a brighter, fresher taste.

Variation

You can customize Pineapple Chicken with different vegetables like snap peas or carrots. If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free choice.

3. How spicy is Pineapple Chicken?
Pineapple Chicken is not spicy unless you add hot ingredients. If you want it spicier, feel free to include chili sauce or red pepper flakes.