A Quick and Flavorful Pineapple Chicken Recipe: A Perfect Fusion of Sweet and Savory
Are you in the mood for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors? Look no further! This Pineapple Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fresh pineapple, and colorful bell peppers, all brought together in a lightly sweetened pineapple sauce. Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or just looking for something different to try, this Pineapple Chicken is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- ¾ cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For the Pineapple Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger or ginger paste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base of your dish. Set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bag, seal it, and shake well until the chicken is evenly coated. For best results, work in batches to ensure that all the chicken pieces are well-coated and ready for frying.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken pieces from the bag, shaking off any excess cornstarch. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked through. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary, transferring the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once all the chicken is cooked, carefully wipe out the skillet or wash it to prepare for the next step.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables and Pineapple
Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Next, add the yellow and red bell peppers, along with the pineapple chunks. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are slightly softened and the pineapple is heated through. Remove the vegetables and pineapple from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic and Ginger
In the same skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Whisk the sauce mixture that you prepared earlier and pour it into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Cook the sauce, whisking frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, return the cooked chicken, vegetables, and pineapple to the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions before serving.
For best results, serve the Pineapple Chicken promptly while it’s hot and fresh, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Success
- Crispiness is Key: After cooking the chicken and vegetables, avoid covering them. This will help maintain their crispiness, which adds a delightful texture to the dish when combined with the sauce.
- Ginger Substitute: If you don’t have fresh ginger on hand, ginger paste works just as well and can be stored in the fridge for up to a month after opening.
- Flavor Variations: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish before serving.
- Pepper Variety: Feel free to mix and match the colors of bell peppers based on your preference. Green, red, orange, and yellow peppers all contribute unique flavors and vibrant colors to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple chunks in this recipe. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the skillet. Fresh pineapple, however, will give a slightly more vibrant flavor.
What can I serve with Pineapple Chicken?
Pineapple Chicken pairs well with steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad would also complement the dish nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While Pineapple Chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save on prep work. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. The dish can also be reheated, but the chicken and vegetables may lose some of their crispiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the chicken and vegetables soggy.
Can I freeze Pineapple Chicken?
It’s best to freeze the components separately to preserve texture. Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
This Pineapple Chicken recipe is a fantastic blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit for any meal. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and crisp vegetables, all coated in a luscious sauce, is sure to become a go-to dish in your kitchen. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste of this quick and flavorful recipe!