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–+ servings
Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Family Favorite

Pineapple Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that's perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Can substitute with tofu or another protein for a vegetarian version.
For the Sauce
  • 0.75 cup Canned Pineapple Juice Fresh pineapple juice can be used, but may require adjusting sugar.
  • 0.25 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Maple syrup can be a substitute if needed.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger, grated Ground ginger can be used but alters the flavor slightly.
  • 1 tablespoon Asian Chili Paste Provides heat; can be substituted with sriracha or red pepper flakes.
For Thickening
  • 1.5 tablespoons Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Cold Water For slurry.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be substituted.
  • Salt and Pepper For seasoning to taste.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Chicken
  1. Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts dry with paper towels, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and Asian chili paste. Whisk until the brown sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for approximately 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Pour the reserved sauce into the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle bubble and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Gradually add this to the bubbling sauce, stirring continuously. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and simmer on low heat for 3–4 minutes so it absorbs the sweet and savory flavors of the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added texture, consider adding bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet when making the sauce.

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