The Best Chicken Pineapple Recipe You’ll Ever Try

This chicken pineapple recipe brings together juicy chicken and sweet tropical pineapple to create a dish that tastes like sunshine on a plate. The tender chicken soaks up the tangy-sweet sauce while chunks of pineapple add bursts of flavor with each bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners, this recipe takes familiar ingredients and transforms them into something special. The contrast between the savory chicken and sweet pineapple creates a perfect balance that will make your taste buds dance. I’ve made this recipe countless times for my family, and it’s become one of our go-to meals when we want something quick but impressive.

Reasons to Try Chicken Pineapple

This chicken pineapple dish stands out for many good reasons:

• Sweet and Savory Balance: The natural sweetness of pineapple pairs perfectly with savory chicken.
• Quick Preparation: You can have this on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters tend to enjoy this dish thanks to its mild, appealing flavors.
• Nutritionally Complete: Protein from chicken, vitamin C from pineapple, and complex carbs if served with rice make this a well-rounded meal.
• Versatile: Works well with different sides like rice, noodles, or even a simple salad.

I love this recipe because it brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with minimal effort. The caramelization that happens when cooking the pineapple adds depth to the flavor profile that you just can’t get any other way.

Where did Chicken Pineapple come from?

Chicken paired with pineapple has roots in several world cuisines, most notably Hawaiian and Chinese cooking. The concept of mixing sweet fruits with savory meats dates back centuries in tropical regions where pineapples grow naturally. In Hawaiian cuisine, similar combinations became popular in the 1950s when fusion cooking gained momentum. Chinese sweet and sour dishes often feature pineapple and chicken as well, though they typically include more vinegar and spices. The modern version we enjoy today is likely a blend of these traditions, adapted for home kitchens and simplified to focus on the primary flavors of chicken and pineapple without complex cooking techniques. This accessibility has made it a staple in many American family recipe collections.

Ingredients Notes

• Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They cook quickly and evenly. Fresh chicken will always give you the juiciest results.
• Fresh Pineapple: While canned will work in a pinch, fresh pineapple offers brighter flavor and better texture. Look for one that smells sweet at the stem end.
• Bell Peppers: Red or yellow peppers add color and a mild sweetness that complements the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Provides umami depth. Low-sodium versions work well if you’re watching salt intake.
• Brown Sugar: Just a touch helps caramelize the pineapple. You can reduce this if your pineapple is very ripe and sweet.
• Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is always best for these aromatics. They add depth to the sauce.
• Green Onions: Add a mild onion flavor and bright color as a garnish.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds brightness to balance the sweet elements.

How to Make Chicken Pineapple

1. Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
5. Add diced bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
6. Add minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Add pineapple chunks and cook for 3 minutes until they begin to caramelize.
8. Mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
9. Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer.
10. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat everything in the sauce.
11. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
12. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

What You Must Know About Chicken Pineapple

• Chicken Doneness: Always ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature for safety.
• Pineapple Prep: Be careful not to include the tough core when cutting fresh pineapple.
• Oil Temperature: Make sure your pan and oil are hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding the pan will steam rather than sear the meat.
• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.

Helpful Tips

• Cut all ingredients to similar sizes for even cooking.
• If using canned pineapple, drain it well and pat dry with paper towels to help it caramelize.
• Marinate the chicken in a tablespoon of soy sauce for 15 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Toast some sesame seeds to sprinkle on top for added texture and nutty flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for firm tofu, shrimp, or sliced beef.
• Veggie Additions: Add snow peas, broccoli, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar.
• Pineapple Alternatives: Mango or peaches can work as substitutes if pineapple isn’t available.
• Sauce Variations: Add a tablespoon of hoisin or oyster sauce for deeper flavor.
• Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or cilantro at the end for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pineapple

This chicken pineapple dish pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce
• Coconut rice for a tropical theme
• Simple chow mein noodles
• Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option
• A side of steamed broccoli or green beans
• A fresh cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing to complement the flavors

Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro leaves for color and added flavor. Serve in a shallow bowl to contain the sauce, and provide extra sauce on the side for those who enjoy more.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making this dish even tastier the next day.

To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent the chicken from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Pineapple Recipe

Delicious Chicken Pineapple Recipe

Make this easy chicken pineapple recipe in just 30 minutes! Our simple steps create a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that the whole family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian-Fusion

Servings 4 servings

Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups fresh pineapple cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 3 green onions thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper.
• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
• Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
• Add remaining oil to the pan if needed.
• Add bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes.
• Add garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add pineapple chunks and cook for 3 minutes until slightly caramelized.
• Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
• Pour sauce into the pan and bring to a simmer.
• Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat with sauce.
• Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
• Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 650mg

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and based on using boneless, skinless chicken breast and fresh pineapple. Values will vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes used.

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