Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

This Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style) recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this dish showcases tender chicken pieces combined with juicy pineapple and fresh vegetables in a tangy sauce. Enjoy the taste of homemade goodness that rivals any takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and tangy sauce perfectly complements the chicken and veggies, ensuring every bite is delicious.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand to make it your own. Bell peppers, onions, and even snap peas work well!
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vibrant produce, this dish is a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
  • Cost-Effective: Prepare a satisfying meal at home for less than what you would spend on takeout.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Deep skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

  • Deep skillet: Allows for even cooking of chicken while providing ample space for stirring in the sauce and veggies.
  • Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without spilling, especially when preparing the sauce or coating the chicken.
  • Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth sauce by thoroughly mixing all ingredients together.
  • Tongs: Make flipping the chicken easy, ensuring it cooks evenly without crowding the pan.
Pineapple

Ingredients

This pineapple chicken stir fry recipe has a deliciously sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken, pineapple, and veggies. It costs less than takeout!

For the Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into 1 pieces)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch

For Cooking

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

For the Stir Fry

  • 2 (8 ounce) cans pineapple tidbits or chunks (drained but reserve 3/4 cup juice for the sauce)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper (cut into bite-size pieces)
  • 1/2 medium onion (sliced or cut into bite-size pieces)

For the Sauce

  • 3/4 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

How to Make Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Add the sauce ingredients to a small bowl. If you don’t have quite enough pineapple juice to make 3/4 cup, just top the rest up with water.
  2. Whisk until smooth.

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

  • Wash and cut your vegetables as directed in the ingredient list.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  1. Cut the chicken into 1 pieces and add them to a bowl.
  2. Toss them with garlic powder and some pepper.
  3. Add cornstarch to coat evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes.
  2. Cook the chicken in two batches to avoid crowding; cook each batch for about 4 minutes before flipping.
  3. Once browned and cooked through (165F), transfer each batch of chicken to a plate.

Step 5: Stir Fry Pineapple & Veggies

  1. If needed, add a small splash of olive oil to the pan.
  2. Add pineapple chunks first; let them cook without stirring for about one minute.
  3. Stir in peppers and onions; cook for about three minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

  1. Return cooked chicken to the pan with veggies.
  2. Pour in your prepared sauce; let it bubble until thickened (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Enjoy your homemade Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)!

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

Serving pineapple chicken is a delightful experience that brings together vibrant flavors and colors. You can elevate your meal by pairing it with various sides or garnishes that complement the sweet and tangy notes of the dish.

With Rice

  • Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a classic pairing. The rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, making every bite delicious.

With Noodles

  • Toss the pineapple chicken with cooked noodles like lo mein or rice noodles. This adds a satisfying texture and makes for a filling meal.

Garnished with Green Onions

  • Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor. Their mild crunch enhances the dish visually and taste-wise.

With Sesame Seeds

  • Add toasted sesame seeds as a garnish. They provide a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch that pairs well with the chicken.

On a Bed of Lettuce

  • For a refreshing twist, serve the pineapple chicken on fresh lettuce leaves. This creates a light, healthy option that’s great for warm days.

How to Perfect Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

To achieve the best results with your pineapple chicken, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

  • Marinate the Chicken: Letting your chicken marinate in soy sauce and ginger for at least 30 minutes will intensify its flavor.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables and ginger to maximize taste and nutritional value.
  • Control Heat Levels: Adjust the cooking heat to ensure even cooking without burning the ingredients. Medium-high heat is generally ideal.
  • Thicken Sauce Properly: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix extra cornstarch with water before adding it to the pan.
  • Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrients.
  • Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve pineapple chicken right after cooking to keep everything tender-crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

Pairing side dishes with pineapple chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

  1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds vibrant color and balances out the sweetness of the chicken.
  2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice mixed with peas, carrots, and egg complements pineapple chicken perfectly.
  3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a crisp contrast to the warm dish.
  4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots offer both color and nutrition.
  5. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables make for an excellent appetizer alongside your main dish.
  6. Quinoa: For a healthier grain option, serve fluffy quinoa seasoned lightly with salt and pepper.
  7. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with herbs and vegetables add a light touch that’s perfect before diving into rich flavors.
  8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a soothing starter that prepares your palate for more robust flavors ahead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style), there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Using too much cornstarch: Adding excess cornstarch can make the sauce too thick and gummy. Use the recommended amount for a smooth texture.
  • Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate with spices can result in bland flavors. Even a short marination time enhances taste.
  • Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender-crisp to maintain their vibrant colors and nutrients.
  • Not adjusting sauce sweetness: If your sauce is too sweet, balance it with a bit of vinegar or soy sauce. Taste as you go!
  • Crowding the pan: Cooking too many pieces of chicken at once leads to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for optimal flavor and texture.
Pineapple

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style) in an airtight container.
  • It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

  • Place cooled Pineapple Chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
  • It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style):

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the meat used.

What sides pair well with Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)?

Serve it over rice or noodles, and consider adding steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

How can I customize the flavors?

Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or snap peas, or adjust spice levels with chili flakes for extra heat.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style) is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the sweetness, spice, and veggies according to your preferences. Give it a try and discover how easily you can customize this flavorful dish!

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Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)

Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style)


  • Author: Florence
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in a vibrant blend of flavors with this Pineapple Chicken (Asian Style) recipe. This delightful stir-fry combines tender chicken pieces, juicy pineapple, and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish captures the essence of homemade goodness that rivals your favorite takeout. With its colorful ingredients and wholesome nutrition, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dinner that will leave your family asking for seconds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into 1" pieces)
  • 3/4 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 2 (8 ounce) cans pineapple tidbits or chunks (drained but reserve 3/4 cup juice for the sauce)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper (cut into bite-size pieces)
  • 1/2 medium onion (sliced or cut into bite-size pieces)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce by whisking together pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth.
  2. Wash and chop the vegetables.
  3. Coat chicken pieces with garlic powder, pepper, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl.
  4. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat; cook chicken in batches until browned and cooked through (about 4 minutes each side).
  5. Stir-fry pineapple chunks for one minute before adding bell peppers and onions; cook until tender-crisp.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet; pour in the prepared sauce and cook until thickened (1-2 minutes).
  7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Marinating chicken can enhance flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. Adjust sweetness with extra vinegar if needed.

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