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Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

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Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

Description

Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is a sweet, savory, and tropical-inspired dish that brings together juicy chicken, tender pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and a rich homemade sauce bursting with island flavor. The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey creates a perfectly balanced glaze that coats every bite with a delicious blend of sweetness and savory goodness. The pineapple becomes lightly caramelized as it cooks, adding a fresh, fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep because it comes together in under an hour using simple ingredients. Serve it over fluffy steamed rice, coconut rice, or noodles for a complete meal that’s colorful, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving takeout-style comfort food or a tropical twist on classic chicken, Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken is guaranteed to become a regular favorite on your dinner table.

Ingredients For the Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water

For the Vegetables

  • 2 cups pineapple chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small onion, sliced

For Garnish

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for about 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes until lightly caramelized.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Simmer

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the delicious flavors.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Mix the cornstarch with the water to make a slurry. Stir it into the skillet and continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and thick enough to coat the chicken.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

Taste the sauce and adjust with a little extra soy sauce for more savory flavor or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness if desired.

Step 9: Serve

Spoon the Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, coconut rice, or noodles. Garnish generously with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips & Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay especially juicy, but chicken breasts work just as well.
  • Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, although canned pineapple chunks in juice can be substituted.
  • Avoid overcooking the vegetables so they stay slightly crisp.
  • Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. The flavors become even better after resting overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

Q: Can I freeze Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken?
Absolutely. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q: What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, fried rice, noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh tropical salad all make excellent accompaniments.

Servings & Nutrition

Servings: 6

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 620mg

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